Power Outage? Here’s Your Providence Circuit Guide

Circuit Breaker On But No Power

Living in Providence, Rhode Island, you may have experienced your fair share of power outages. And if you’ve ever been in a situation where your lights suddenly go out and your appliances stop working, you know how frustrating and inconvenient it can be. In these moments, we often look to our trusty circuit breaker to find the cause and hopefully restore our power. However, what do you do when the circuit breaker itself is the problem? As a homeowner in zip code 02909, it’s important to understand the basics of circuit breakers and what to do when they fail, so you can quickly and safely get your power back up and running.

So, let’s start from the beginning. What exactly is a circuit breaker? In simple terms, it is an automatic electrical switch that is designed to protect your home’s electrical system from overload or short circuit. It works by detecting any excessive currents flowing through the wiring and quickly shutting off the power to prevent damage or fire. This is why it’s an essential component in our homes, as it not only protects our electrical appliances and devices, but also keeps us safe.

Now, let’s discuss the different types of circuit breakers. The most common one found in homes is the standard circuit breaker, also known as a single-pole breaker. This type is designed to handle up to 120 volts and controls 15-20 amps of power. It’s responsible for powering most of your home’s lights and outlets.

Another type is the double-pole circuit breaker, which can handle higher voltages of up to 240 volts and controls 30-50 amps of power. This is often used for larger appliances, such as air conditioners, dryers, and electric stoves. Other types include GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) breakers, which are used in areas where water is present, such as kitchens and bathrooms, and AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) breakers, which are designed to prevent electrical fires caused by arcing.

Now that you have a basic understanding of circuit breakers, let’s discuss what can cause them to fail and what steps you can take when this happens. One common reason is when your home’s electrical system experiences an overload from too many devices or appliances being used at the same time. This can cause the circuit breaker to trip and cut off the power. In this case, simply unplugging a few devices or turning off some appliances can help you restore the power.

Another common cause of circuit breaker failure is a short circuit, which occurs when the hot wire and neutral wire come in contact with each other. This can happen when there is a faulty wiring or a damaged device. When this happens, the circuit breaker will trip and cut off the power to prevent damages. In this case, it’s important to determine the source of the short circuit and fix it before resetting the circuit breaker.

But what if the circuit breaker keeps tripping even after you’ve unplugged some devices or fixed the short circuit? This could be a sign of a more serious issue, such as an overloaded circuit or a faulty circuit breaker. In this case, it’s best to call in a licensed electrician for help to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated business in Warwick, RI, we have been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. Our team of experienced and licensed electricians specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to electrician for homes and businesses in the Warwick and Providence areas. With our deep roots in the community and commitment to customer service, we take pride in providing timely and expert electrical services to our clients.

A circuit breaker is an essential component in our homes that protects our electrical system and ensures our safety. Knowing the basics of how it works and what to do when it fails can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. If you’re experiencing frequent circuit breaker failures or any other electrical issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed electrician for assistance. At B&K Electric, we have the expertise and dedication to help you keep your home’s electrical system in top shape.

Topics:

Circuit breakers,

Power outage,

Electrician services