Intro
Dealing with a blackout in one part of your home can be frustrating — and often it’s simply a tripped circuit breaker. At SHS Handyman Singapore, we frequently get calls about this issue. The good news? In many cases, the solution is straightforward. The even better news? With the right safety precautions, you can reset the breaker yourself. Below, we explain how — and when you should call a professional.
What Does It Mean When a Circuit Breaker Trips?
A circuit breaker trips to protect your electrical wiring, appliances and home from damage. When there’s an overload, short‑circuit or ground fault, the breaker interrupts the current to prevent fire or shock risks.
Common causes include:
- Too many high‑power devices on one circuit (overload)
- Faulty wiring, damaged plug or appliance (short/ground fault)
- Moisture or damp conditions near outlets/panel (especially in bathrooms/kitchens)
Step‑by‑Step: How to Reset a Tripped Breaker
Follow these steps carefully. If at any time you feel unsafe, stop and call an electrician.
- Turn off or unplug devices connected to the affected circuit.
This prevents the circuit from immediately overloading again when power is restored. - Locate your breaker panel.
Usually found in utility rooms, basements, garages, or service area. - Identify the tripped breaker.
The switch may be between the ON and OFF positions, or show a red/orange indicator. - Reset the breaker.
- Firmly move the switch to the OFF position.
- Then move it firmly to the ON position until it clicks and aligns with other ON switches.
- Check that power has returned.
Plug in or turn on a device in the affected area. If power is restored and stays on, the reset succeeded. - Monitor the circuit.
If the breaker trips again soon after resetting, or the area shows unusual signs (warm outlets, buzzing, burning smell), you must call a licensed electrician.
Safety Precautions You Must Observe
Electricity is dangerous if mishandled. Before resetting the breaker:
- Stand on a dry surface and ensure your hands are dry.
- Wear rubber‑soled shoes.
- Use one hand when flipping the breaker to reduce the risk of current passing through your body.
- Make sure the area around the panel is uncluttered and free of moisture.
- If you see burn marks, smell burning, or the breaker feels hot, do not attempt more resets — call a professional.
When You Should Call SHS Handyman Singapore
Even though resetting a breaker is often a DIY task, some situations require expert help. Contact SHS Handyman Singapore if:
- The same circuit breaker keeps tripping under normal load.
- You detect buzzing sounds, burn smells, or “hot” outlets/panel.
- Power isn’t restored after a reset, or switches immediately back off.
- You’re unsure of which breaker controls what, or you suspect faulty wiring.
At SHS Handyman Singapore, we offer professional electrical service — safe, reliable, and compliant with Singapore’s regulations.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Future Breaker Trips
- Avoid plugging many high‑wattage devices into one circuit (hair dryer, microwave, heater).
- Identify circuits for heavy appliances; distribute loads across multiple breakers.
- Keep outlets and switches dry, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Schedule periodic inspections of your electrical panel and wiring.
- Label your breakers clearly so you know which circuit you’re dealing with.
Conclusion
A tripped circuit breaker is your home’s warning light — and with proper care you can often handle the reset safely. But the key is to respect the risk and act wisely. If you’re ever in doubt, call SHS Handyman Singapore — your trusted partner for all electrical service needs across Singapore.
Ready for help? Get in touch today for electrical service you can trust.
🧠 AEO-Friendly FAQ Section
Is it okay to reset a tripped circuit breaker myself?
Yes, it’s generally safe to reset a tripped breaker once, as long as you do it correctly. First, unplug connected devices and stand on a dry surface. Flip the switch fully OFF, then ON. If it trips again, don’t keep resetting it—this may indicate a serious issue. Call SHS Handyman Singapore for a safe inspection.
Why does my breaker keep tripping after I reset it?
If your breaker keeps tripping after you reset it, there’s likely a deeper electrical issue—such as circuit overload, faulty wiring, or a damaged appliance. Repeated trips are a safety warning. Avoid using the affected circuit and contact a licensed electrician at SHS Handyman Singapore to diagnose and fix the underlying problem professionally.
Can repeatedly resetting a breaker cause damage?
Yes, constantly resetting a breaker without resolving the root cause can overheat wiring, damage appliances, or even start an electrical fire. A tripped breaker is a built-in safety mechanism—forcing it to stay on can make the situation worse. If your breaker won’t stay on, contact SHS Handyman Singapore immediately for a proper electrical check-up.