Everyday Life
How to reset a tripped circuit breaker
A tripped breaker is a safety device, not a nuisance. Learn how to reset it correctly and when to stop and call a licensed electrician.
Written by Grace Kim · Reviewed by Mark Robinson · Updated October 31, 2026 · 3 min read
Immediate actions
- 1 Turn off and unplug devices on the affected circuit.
- 2 Locate the tripped breaker (handle in the middle position) in your service panel.
- 3 Push the handle fully to OFF, then firmly to ON.
- 4 If it trips again immediately, stop and call a licensed electrician.
What not to do / warning
Never force a breaker to stay on or work on a damaged, wet, or burning panel. Call emergency services for fire or smoke, then a licensed electrician.
A tripped circuit breaker is a safety feature that cuts power when a circuit is overloaded or a fault occurs. Resetting it is usually simple, but doing it safely matters. This guide explains the steps and when to stop.
What is happening
Breakers trip for two main reasons: an overload (too many devices drawing current) or a fault (short circuit or ground fault). Some breakers, especially GFCI or AFCI types, have a TEST/RESET button and may trip for safety reasons even without an overload.
Emergency warning
If you see sparks, smoke, flames, smell burning, or notice damaged wiring or a hot panel, do not touch the panel. Call your local emergency services immediately and then a licensed electrician. Never work on a panel that is wet or damaged.
Step by step
- Turn off and unplug devices on the affected circuit. This reduces load and prevents surprises when power returns.
- Locate the service panel and open the door. Use a flashlight if needed. Stand on a dry surface and keep one hand free.
- Identify the tripped breaker. Its handle will be in the middle position (not fully ON or OFF). The label inside the panel can help.
- Reset it: push the handle firmly to the OFF position, then push it fully to ON. You should feel a click.
- Test the circuit by plugging in one device at a time. If it trips again, unplug everything and try once more. If it trips with nothing connected, stop.
If your breaker has a TEST/RESET button
Press RESET firmly. If it does not stay reset, the breaker or the circuit has a problem. Do not keep pressing it.
What NOT to do
- Do not reset a breaker repeatedly if it trips immediately. That indicates a fault.
- Do not use tools, tape, or force to hold a breaker in the ON position.
- Do not replace a breaker with a larger size or a different type unless a licensed electrician does it.
- Do not work inside the panel if you are unsure or if the panel looks damaged, rusty, or smells burnt.
- Do not ignore a breaker that feels hot or smells like burning plastic.
When to call a professional
Call a licensed electrician if: the breaker trips again right after resetting; multiple breakers trip; you see scorch marks or smell burning; the panel is warm; you have aluminum wiring; or you are not comfortable working near the panel. For any fire or smoke, call emergency services first.
How to prevent nuisance trips
- Distribute high-wattage appliances (heaters, hair dryers, microwaves) across different circuits.
- Use power strips with built-in overload protection and avoid daisy-chaining them.
- Have an electrician inspect your panel if trips are frequent.
Resetting a breaker is safe when done carefully. If it does not stay reset, stop and get professional help. This is general information, not a substitute for professional electrical advice.