Reasons You Are Experiencing Frequent MCB Trips

MCBs or Miniature Circuit Breakers are devices that help break the overload of power supply and also help avoid short circuits. It’s very likely that at some point, you may have experienced a short circuit where your MCB may have ‘tripped’. Usually, this rare occurrence can be easily rectified by restoring the MCB.

Sometimes though you may notice that these ‘trips’ are becoming more frequent. This can be frustrating because you may have to check what has gone wrong each time. If your MCB board is in the basement, then the frequent trips can feel irritating. Frustration or not, frequent MCB trips are an alarming sign and should be checked.

While MCBs usually have high capacities to handle surges, frequent trips can even impact their performance. If you are experiencing frequent MCB trips, then it's important to understand what the root cause of it is.

How Do I Know if a Circuit Breaker Has Tripped?

A circuit breaker is an important safety device that automatically shuts off electrical power to a circuit if it detects an overload or short circuit. If a circuit breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset before power can be restored to the circuit. Here are some steps to follow to determine if a circuit breaker has tripped:

1. Check for power: First, check to see if there is power in the affected area. If the lights or other devices connected to the circuit are not working, it may indicate that the circuit breaker has tripped.
2. Check the breaker panel: Locate the breaker panel in your home or building and look for the breaker that corresponds to the affected circuit. The breaker will be in the "off" position if it has tripped.
3. Reset the breaker: To reset the circuit breaker, firmly push the breaker switch to the "off" position, then back to the "on" position. You may hear a clicking sound when the breaker is reset.
4. Check for power again: After resetting the breaker, check to see if power has been restored to the affected area. If the circuit breaker trips again immediately after being reset, it may indicate a larger problem and a qualified electrician should be called to inspect the circuit.

If you are unable to reset the breaker or if it keeps tripping repeatedly, it may be an indication of a more significant issue, such as a short circuit or electrical overload. In such cases, it is important to consult with a qualified electrician to diagnose and repair the problem safely.

Checking for power, locating the breaker panel, resetting the breaker, and checking for power again are the steps to follow when determining if a circuit breaker has tripped. It is important to always prioritize safety when working with electricity and to seek professional assistance if needed.

Here we are listing some of the most common reasons for frequent MCB trips.

1) Circuit Overloads

This is the most common reason for MCB trips. Circuit boards supply electricity to different circuits to distribute power. When an electrical appliance pulls more power from a circuit than its capacity, an overload occurs. So, if you are experiencing frequent trips, it's advisable to observe how many heavy power-consuming devices are being used at the same time.

2) Short circuits

These are far more hazardous than circuit overloads. While there is a complex system that triggers a short circuit, we will simplify it. A short circuit often occurs when a ‘neutral wire’ comes in contact with a ‘hot wire. This leads to a surge of current being passed through a circuit – usually, this current is far more than the circuit can handle. This leads to a short circuit usually characterized by a burning smell.

MCBs are very effective in breaking the current supply in case of a short circuit. Even then, you should check for loose connections or faulty wirings to avoid any disasters.

3) Ground Fault

This is like a short circuit. In a ground fault, a hot wire touches a ground wire leading to a surge in the power supply. When this happens, the circuit in MCB will automatically trip to avoid fires. You can identify a ground fault surge by noticing a ‘charring’ or black discoloration around appliance sockets. This is a major hazard, and professionals should be brought in to check ground faults.

Read more: - Benefits Of Installing MCBs At Homes

How Do You Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker?

A tripped circuit breaker can be easily reset by following these simple steps:

1. Locate the circuit breaker panel: Circuit breaker panels are usually located in the basement, utility room, or garage. Once you have located the panel, open the door to reveal the breakers.
2. Identify the tripped breaker: Look for the breaker that has moved to the "off" position or is in a position that is different from the rest.
3. Turn off the tripped breaker: Move the tripped breaker to the "off" position by pushing it firmly to the "off" position.
4. Reset the tripped breaker: Move the breaker to the "on" position by pushing it firmly to the "on" position. You may hear a clicking sound when the breaker is reset.
5. Reset the tripped breaker: Move the breaker to the "on" position by pushing it firmly to the "on" position. You may hear a clicking sound when the breaker is reset.
6. Test the circuit: After resetting the tripped breaker, test the circuit to see if power has been restored. Turn on the light or plug in the device that wasn't working to check if it is now functioning.
7. Repeat if necessary: If the circuit breaker trips again immediately after being reset, it may indicate a larger problem and you should not reset it again. Instead, call a licensed electrician to diagnose and repair the problem.

It's important to note that if you reset the circuit breaker and it trips again repeatedly, there may be an underlying issue with the circuit or wiring that requires further investigation by a licensed electrician.

Resetting a tripped circuit breaker is a simple process that involves locating the tripped breaker, turning it off, and then resetting it. However, if the breaker trips repeatedly, it is important to seek professional help to avoid any electrical hazards.

How Can I Tell if a Circuit Breaker Has Gone Bad?

Circuit breakers are designed to trip when there is an overload or short circuit in the electrical system. However, like any other electrical component, circuit breakers can also fail or go bad over time. Here are some signs that may indicate a circuit breaker has gone bad:

1. Circuit breaker trips frequently: If a circuit breaker trips frequently or for no apparent reason, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
2. A circuit breaker does not trip: On the other hand, if a circuit breaker does not trip when there is an overload or short circuit, it may indicate that the circuit breaker has failed to perform its intended function.
3. Burnt or discolored marks: If you see any burnt or discolored marks on the circuit breaker or the surrounding panel, it may indicate that the circuit breaker has overheated or failed.
4. Hot to the touch: If a circuit breaker feels hot to the touch, it may indicate that it is not functioning properly and needs to be replaced.
5. Unusual noises: If a circuit breaker makes unusual noises such as buzzing or humming, it may indicate that it is faulty.

If you suspect that a circuit breaker has gone bad, it is important to consult with a licensed electrician to diagnose the issue and replace the circuit breaker if necessary. Attempting to replace or repair a circuit breaker on your own can be dangerous and should be avoided. Always prioritize safety when working with electricity and seek professional assistance if needed.

How to avoid MCBs tripping

Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) are designed to trip and cut off the power supply when there is an overload or short circuit in the electrical circuit. While this is an important safety feature, frequent tripping can be frustrating and disruptive. Here are some tips to help you avoid MCBs tripping:

1. Balance the load: An unbalanced load can cause the MCB to trip. To avoid this, make sure that the load is evenly distributed across the circuit. For example, avoid plugging in multiple high-power devices on the same circuit.
2. Use the correct MCB: Make sure that you are using the correct MCB for the circuit. Using an MCB with a lower rating than required can cause it to trip frequently. Check the ampere rating of the MCB before installation.
3. Avoid overloading: Avoid overloading the circuit with too many electrical appliances or devices. Unplugging unused devices can help to reduce the load on the circuit.
4. Check for loose connections: Loose connections can cause an increase in resistance and heat in the circuit, which can trip the MCB. Check for any loose connections and tighten them if necessary.
5. Replace faulty appliances: Faulty appliances can cause an increase in current flow, which can trip the MCB. Replace any faulty appliances or have them repaired by a qualified electrician.
6. Install a surge protector: A surge protector can protect your electrical devices from power surges and spikes, which can cause the MCB to trip.
7. Upgrade the electrical system: If you frequently experience MCB tripping, it may be a sign that your electrical system is outdated or inadequate. Consider upgrading the electrical system to meet your current needs.

Read Also: MCB (Miniature Circuit Breakers) Guide - Types, Sizes, And Uses

It's important to note that if the MCB continues to trip frequently despite these measures, it may indicate an underlying problem that requires the attention of a licensed electrician. Do not attempt to work on electrical systems on your own as it can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety when working with electricity and seek professional assistance if needed.

While you take all these precautions, ensure that you invest in good quality and durable MCB. You can check for MCB online with Schneider Electric. Our wide range of circuit breakers comes with an MCB price list that will help accelerate your decision of buying the right MCB for your home.

Schneider Electric is a trusted brand that designs high-quality MCBs and offers an electric MCB price list that is cost-effective and fits all budgets.