The Breaker Box Itself
5. Going Back to the Source
So you’ve checked all the outlets, switches, and light fixtures, and the circuit is still dead? Okay, let’s go back to the breaker box. Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the wiring in your house, but with the breaker itself. Breakers can wear out over time, or they can trip and not fully reset. It’s like a tiny electrical traffic jam, and it can be a real pain to diagnose.
First, make absolutely sure that the breaker is fully switched “off,” and then flip it firmly to the “on” position. Sometimes, a breaker can appear to be on, but it’s actually tripped halfway, preventing the circuit from working. A good, firm flip can often do the trick. If the breaker trips immediately after you turn it on, then there’s definitely a problem with the circuit, and you’ll need to investigate further.
If the breaker still won’t stay on, try replacing it with a new one of the same amperage. Breakers are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace (but again, turn off the main power to the entire breaker box before you start messing with anything!). Make sure you get the correct type of breaker for your breaker box. They’re not all interchangeable. If you’re not comfortable replacing the breaker yourself, call an electrician.
Here’s a pro tip: sometimes, a loose wire connection inside the breaker box can cause a circuit to go dead. If you’re comfortable doing so (and ONLY if you’re comfortable and have turned off the main power!), carefully inspect the wires connected to the breaker. Look for any loose connections, burnt wires, or signs of damage. If you find anything suspicious, call an electrician immediately. Working inside a breaker box can be dangerous, so don’t take any chances.