What to Do If a Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping After a Storm in St. Louis

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping after a storm, first turn off or unplug all devices on that circuit, reset the breaker by flipping it fully off then back on, and then plug things in one at a time. If it still trips, there may be water damage or an electrical fault, and you should call a licensed electrician for a safe inspection.

 

What Is a Circuit Breaker?

 

A circuit breaker is a safety switch in your electrical panel. It watches how much electricity flows through wires. If too much electricity builds up—called an overload—or if there’s a short circuit, the breaker “trips” and turns itself off. This stops wires from getting too hot and causing a fire.

 

Why Storms Make Breakers Trip

 

Storms can cause breakers to trip for several reasons:

• Power Surges: Lightning strikes or damage to power lines can send a sudden spike of electricity into your home.
• Water Intrusion: Heavy rain or flooding can let water into outdoor outlets, panels, or wiring, creating a short circuit.
• Fallen Branches: A tree limb could hit power lines and change how electricity flows.
• Loose Connections: Strong winds can shake wiring connections loose inside your panel or junction boxes.

 

Immediate Safety Steps

 

• Locate your main breaker panel and switch off the tripped breaker by pushing it fully to OFF, then back to ON.
• Unplug all appliances, lights, and devices on that circuit to reduce load.
• Dry any visible moisture around outlets or the panel using a dry cloth. Do not touch wet wires.
• Check for water leaks, damp patches, or charred smells near outlets and the breaker box.
• Once dry, plug in one device at a time to identify if a specific appliance is causing the trip.

 

Inspecting for Damage

 

Look inside the breaker panel only if you feel comfortable and the panel is completely dry. Otherwise, leave this to a pro.

• Check that the breaker is firmly seated and not loose.
• Look for discoloration, burn marks, or rust around the breaker and bus bars.
• Inspect wires for frayed insulation or signs of water stains.
• Ensure the panel door closes tightly to keep out moisture and debris.

 

Using Surge Protectors

 

A surge protector helps shield your devices from sudden spikes in voltage. Plug sensitive electronics—like computers and TVs—into a quality surge-protecting power strip or wall-mounted protector. This reduces stress on your breaker during minor surges.

 

When to Call a Professional

 

• If the breaker trips again immediately after resetting with no appliances plugged in.
• If you see water inside the breaker panel or near wiring.
• If you smell burning plastic or hear buzzing sounds from the panel or outlets.
• If you are unsure how to safely open or inspect the panel.

Always hire a licensed electrician to handle moisture, damaged wires, or complex panel repairs. They have the tools and training to keep you safe.

 

Preventing Future Tripping

 

• Upgrade to ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets in areas prone to moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors.
• Consider arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) breakers, which detect small electrical arcs and trip before they cause fires.
• Trim trees and branches away from power lines to reduce wind damage.
• Schedule regular electrical inspections every few years to spot loose connections or aging components.

 

Living in St. Louis or Nashville? If your breaker still won’t stay on after these steps, call a local licensed electrician to perform a full-turnout inspection and make any needed repairs.