
Steps to follow once the tripping has taken place
When the incoming circuit breaker is tripped, it means that power has been disconnected from the electrical panel or device that it was supplying. Here are some general steps to follow once the incomer breaker is tripped:
1. Identify the reason for the trip:
The first step is to determine why the breaker has tripped. Common reasons for a breaker tripping include overloading, short circuits, or ground faults. Therefore the first step to analyse is to identify which breaker has tripped and the probable cause of it.
If the trip is caused by overloading, you may need to redistribute your electrical devices across multiple circuits or install additional circuits. If the trip is caused by a short circuit or ground fault, you may need to repair or replace the affected wiring or equipment.
2. Check for any visible damage or hazards:
Check for any discoloration or scorch marks, loose or damaged wiring, corrosion, water damage, or any obstruction around the electrical panel or on any electrical devices as these may cause electrical issues in the system.
3. Carry out more tests to confirm the cause/damage
a. Voltage testing: This can help identify any voltage drops or fluctuations that may be causing the breaker to trip.
b. Current testing: This can help identify any overloading or short circuits that may be causing the breaker to trip.
c. Insulation testing: This can help identify any insulation breakdowns or other issues that may be causing electrical faults.
d. Continuity testing: This can help identify any open circuits or other faults that may be causing the breaker to trip.
e. Ground fault testing: This can help identify any ground faults that may be causing the breaker to trip.
4. Fix the issue
If the tripping was caused by damaged wiring or equipment, it may need to be repaired or replaced. If it was caused by overloading, it may be necessary to redistribute electrical loads across multiple circuits or install additional circuits to handle the load. If the electrical system is outdated or unable to handle the load, it may need to be upgraded. This may include installing a larger electrical panel, upgrading the wiring, or installing additional circuits. If the cause was improper protective device coordination then that is need to be corrected through protective device coordination studies.
5. Reset the breaker:
Once the cause of the trip & cause have been identified and the issue has been fixed, reset the breaker by switching it back to the “on” position. If the breaker trips again immediately after being reset, it may indicate that there is a more serious electrical issue that needs to be addressed. In this case, it is important to consult with a licensed electrician to diagnose and fix the issue.
6. Test the system:
After resetting the breaker, test the system to ensure that power has been restored and that it is functioning properly.
7. Monitor the system:
Keep an eye on the system to ensure that the breaker does not trip again. If the breaker continues to trip, it may be necessary to investigate further or call a licensed electrician to assess the situation.
If you are uncomfortable working with electrical components, it is important to seek the help of a qualified electrician. They can help diagnose the issue and make any necessary repairs to ensure the safety of your electrical system.