Troubleshooting
Why breakers trip, why outlets go dead and why lights flicker, with the safe checks a homeowner can do and when to call an electrician.
A breaker that keeps tripping or lights that flicker can be worrying. These guides explain the safe checks you can do yourself and the signs that mean it's time for a licensed electrician. When in doubt, leave the panel cover on and give us a call.
Guides in this section 3
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
Overloads, short circuits, ground faults and arc faults: why a breaker keeps tripping, how to reset it safely, and when it is time to call an electrician.
Read guide TroubleshootingOutlets not working but the breaker is not tripped
Dead outlets with no tripped breaker are often a GFCI upstream, a switched outlet or a loose connection. Safe things to check and when to call.
Read guide TroubleshootingLights flickering or dimming: harmless or a warning?
One flickering bulb vs whole-house flicker, dimming when appliances start, LED dimmer issues and lost neutrals: what each means and what to do.
Read guideHelpful tools
Problem panel and recall checker
Check whether your electrical panel brand has a recall or a known problem history: Federal Pacific Stab-Lok, Zinsco, Challenger, Pushmatic, fuse boxes and more.
Open tool ToolWire size calculator
Free wire size calculator: enter amps, copper or aluminum, and distance to see the minimum AWG by NEC 310.16 ampacity and for 3% voltage drop. Rough guide.
Open toolMore sections
- Panels & Service Upgrades
- EV Chargers
- Generators & Battery Backup
- Solar
- Safety & Hazards
- Older Homes & Old Wiring
- Wiring Basics
- Permits & Inspections
- Lighting & Outlets
- Calculators & Tools
General information for California homes. Local rules and inspectors can vary. Not a substitute for an on-site inspection.