What is a Circuit Breaker and Why Does It Trip?
A circuit breaker is a safety device designed to automatically stop the flow of electricity when it detects a problem such as an overload, short circuit, or other electrical faults. It protects your home from damage caused by excessive current, overheating, or potential fire hazards.
When a breaker trips, it means it has interrupted the circuit to prevent further damage. While resetting the breaker may restore power, frequent tripping is a sign that you need professional inspection from trusted experts like Moffam Electricals.
1. Overloaded Circuit
One of the most common reasons a circuit breaker trips in Nairobi homes is an overloaded circuit. This happens when too many appliances or devices are connected to the same circuit, drawing more electricity than it can handle.
Signs of an overloaded circuit:
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Breaker trips after several seconds when multiple appliances are running
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Lights dim when heavy devices like microwaves or heaters are switched on
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Frequent need to reset the breaker
Moffam Electricals Solution:
We assess your home’s wiring and redistribute the electrical load or upgrade your electrical system to match your power needs.
2. Short Circuit
A short circuit is more serious than an overload. It occurs when a live wire (red) comes into direct contact with a neutral wire (black), ground wire, or metal box. This causes a sudden surge of electricity with very low resistance, making the breaker trip instantly.
Common causes:
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Faulty wiring
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Damaged electrical appliances
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Loose connections
If your breaker trips immediately after resetting, you may have a short circuit.
Call Moffam Electricals immediately to prevent electrical hazards.
3. Ground Fault
A ground fault is a specific type of short circuit that happens when a live wire touches a ground wire, a metal wall box, or moisture-prone surfaces. It’s especially dangerous in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.
Prevention:
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Install GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in wet areas
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Regularly inspect outlets and wiring for moisture damage
Moffam Electricals can install GFCI protection in compliance with Kenyan electrical safety standards.
4. Arc Fault
An arc fault occurs when damaged, corroded, or loose wires create sparks or electrical arcs. This can cause electrical fires if left unchecked.
Warning signs:
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Buzzing or crackling sounds from outlets or switches
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Burning smell from sockets
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Lights flickering without reason
Never ignore arc faults.
Moffam Electricals provides advanced Arc Fault Detection and Protection to safeguard your home.
5. Faulty Circuit Breaker
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the wiring — it’s the breaker itself. Over time, breakers wear out, fail to reset, or trip unnecessarily.
Signs of a bad breaker:
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Visible burn marks on the breaker panel
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Breaker feels hot to the touch
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Breaker trips with no load connected
Our expert electricians at Moffam Electricals can test your breaker and replace it with a high-quality, reliable unit.
6. Wiring Errors
Incorrect wiring — such as reversed neutral and ground wires — can cause your breaker to trip immediately during installation or first use.
Solution:
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Rewire the socket correctly
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Test all wiring with professional-grade equipment
Moffam Electricals offers full wiring inspection services to detect and correct hidden electrical faults.
What To Do When Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
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Turn off and unplug devices connected to the tripped circuit.
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Reset the breaker by switching it fully off, then back on.
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Test appliances one by one to identify which one causes the trip.
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Call Moffam Electricals if the breaker continues to trip — this indicates a deeper electrical fault.
Why Choose Moffam Electricals for Circuit Breaker Repairs in Nairobi
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Certified and experienced electricians
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Same-day service within Nairobi and surrounding areas
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Affordable, transparent pricing
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Use of high-quality electrical parts and safety devices
Your safety is our priority — whether it’s a minor overload or a major wiring fault, Moffam Electricals ensures your home or business is powered safely and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions – Circuit Breaker Problems in Nairobi
1. Why does my breaker keep tripping even after resetting it?
If your breaker trips again right after resetting, you may have a short circuit, ground fault, or a faulty breaker. This requires professional inspection from an electrician like Moffam Electricals to prevent electrical hazards.
2. Can I fix a tripping breaker myself?
No, working with electrical panels without proper training is dangerous. You risk electric shock, burns, or fire. Always call a licensed electrician to diagnose and fix the problem.
3. How much does it cost to repair a tripping breaker in Nairobi?
Costs vary depending on the fault — whether it’s wiring, a faulty appliance, or the breaker itself. Moffam Electricals offers affordable and transparent pricing after inspection.
4. How do I know if my breaker is bad?
Signs of a bad breaker include frequent tripping with no load, visible burn marks, overheating, or a breaker that won’t stay on. Moffam Electricals can test and replace faulty breakers quickly.
5. How fast can Moffam Electricals respond to an emergency breaker issue?
We provide same-day service in most parts of Nairobi and nearby areas to restore your electricity and ensure your safety.
Contact Moffam Electricals Today
Call: +254 790 384 109
Website: https://moffamelectricals.co.ke/
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