How to Safely Reset a Tripped Breaker
Resetting a breaker is one of the few electrical tasks a homeowner can do safely. Here's how — and when to stop.
How do I reset a tripped breaker?
To reset a tripped breaker, find the switch that's in the middle or 'off' position, push it fully to off, then firmly back to on. If it holds, you're set. If it trips again right away or won't stay on, stop — there's a fault, and you should call an electrician.
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Step by step
- Turn off devices on the dead circuit. Unplug or switch off what you can to reduce load.
- Open the panel and find the tripped breaker. It sits between on and off, or shows a red or orange marker.
- Push it fully to off first. Breakers must be moved to off before they'll reset — don't just push toward on.
- Then push it firmly to on. You should feel it click into place.
- Test the circuit. If power returns and holds, you're done. Add devices back one at a time.
When to stop and call
Stop and call a licensed electrician if the breaker:
- Trips again immediately or won't stay reset
- Feels warm, buzzes, or smells hot
- Trips with nothing plugged into the circuit
Those point to a real fault — an overload, short, or ground fault — that needs breaker and panel repair, not another reset.
Stay safe at the panel
Keep your hands dry, stand on a dry surface, and never touch anything inside the panel beyond the breaker switches. If the panel is wet, corroded, or you're unsure, don't open it — call a pro. This matters more in humid, coastal Virginia Beach homes where corrosion is common.
GFCI outlets reset differently
If only a few outlets near water are dead, check for a tripped GFCI outlet and press its reset button before assuming it's the breaker. If it won't hold, that's a job for outlet and GFCI repair.
Keep Reading
Virginia Beach Electrician Service Map
This guide is written for homeowners across Virginia Beach, VA — see the area our licensed electrician network covers.
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