5 Top Reasons Why Your Breaker Might Keep Tripping

Ever had that heart-sinking moment when you hit start on the microwave… and click — darkness? You stand there, holding your half-warm plate, staring at the breaker box like it’s mocking you. You aren’t alone.

Many people across Ottawa face this same headache. And when it comes to finding reliable electrical companies in Ottawa, you deserve answers — not just band-aid fixes. At Salter Electric, we help you get to the root of the problem, so you never have to reheat dinner three times again.

Let’s break down the top 5 reasons your breaker keeps tripping and how we can fix it.

1. Overloaded Circuit

Picture this: you’re running your microwave, toaster, and coffee maker — all on the same line. That’s like trying to fit three big rigs onto one narrow country road. The breaker flips to stop the overload before the wires overheat. This is one of the most common issues our electricians in Ottawa see. We can help spread out your appliances to different circuits or upgrade your wiring so you can keep cooking without blowing a fuse.

2. Short Circuit

A short circuit is like a firecracker going off inside your wires. It happens when a hot wire touches a neutral wire, creating a surge of current. This can scorch wires and cause that sharp burnt smell — something no one wants in their kitchen. Our team of electrical contractors in Ottawa uses top-grade tools to find where the fault lies and fix it safely before it becomes a bigger danger.

3. Ground Fault

Imagine water sneaking into your outlets after you clean your kitchen. A ground fault can occur when electricity escapes the wiring and touches a grounded surface, like metal. Your breaker senses this and shuts off power to keep you safe from shocks. We test for ground faults and install GFCI outlets where needed — especially in moisture-heavy areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

4. Old or Weak Breaker

Sometimes the problem isn’t your microwave — it’s your breaker itself. If your home is older, that breaker may be tired and worn out, like a hockey goalie who’s been blocking shots for decades. It trips too easily, even when the load is normal. At Salter Electric, we replace weak breakers with modern, reliable ones so your home runs smoothly.

5. Faulty Appliance

What if the problem is hiding inside the microwave itself? A faulty appliance can draw too much power or create internal shorts, leading to constant tripping. We can test your appliance and tell you if it’s worth repairing or if it’s time for a shiny new upgrade.

Why Act Fast Matters

Breaker trips aren’t just annoying — they can be a sign of danger. Think about the 2003 Northeast blackout that left 50 million people in the dark. Electrical problems can snowball into massive outages or even fires if left unchecked. When you work with a trusted commercial lighting contractor in Ottawa like us, you’re not just fixing a nuisance — you’re protecting your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

The Bottom Line

If your breaker keeps tripping every time you cook, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Salter Electric is one of the most trusted electrical companies in Ottawa, and we’re ready to help. Our electricians in Ottawa bring decades of experience, quick diagnostics, and a caring approach that treats your home like our own.

Call us today and get your kitchen back to normal — because you deserve hot meals without the hassle.


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