Circuit Breaker Won’t Reset - What Do I Do?

So, the power goes out and you don’t know what to do? Grab a flashlight and start deducting the problem one at a time. Start with No. 1 below:

No. 1: Reset

In the instance your breaker goes out, the first thing you’ll want to do is go to the breaker panel. This is typically located in the garage or on the side of the house. Open the break panel and identify the labeled switch on the room/s where the electricity has failed. If the panel is not labeled- look for the switch that is on the opposite side of the other switches. Once the switch is identified, flip it in the far opposite direction and wait for 5 Mississippi seconds. Then flip it back to the same side as the rest of the switches. This normally fixes the issue. However, if your circuit breaker won’t reset after this attempt, try the next step.

No. 2: Unplug

Find all devices and appliances that are plugged in, in the rooms where the breaker won’t reset. Unplug them all and turn off all the lights. Then try to reset the breaker again as described above. If the power comes back on- plug each device back in one at a time. Make sure to check if any of the items are overheated. If one item makes the power go out again- that may be the issue with your breaker. You will want to replace that item or get it serviced. If this doesn’t fix the problem head to step No. 2.

No. 3: Short Circuits

If you attempted No. 1 and No. 2 then your problem might be a short circuit. When your hot wires come into contact with your neutral wires- it can cause a fire if not attended. The breaker is created to shut off if it detects a short circuit to help protect you and your home.

If a short circuit seems to be the problem, Call Milestone at 214-348-5100 and we will get an electrician to your home!