What to Do If Your Generator Trips the Breaker in St. Louis

When your generator trips the breaker, first turn off nonessential appliances to reduce the electrical load, reset the circuit breaker on the generator or main service panel, and then restart the generator. If it trips again, there may be an overload, a short circuit, or a mechanical issue. Inspect cords, outlets, and connected devices for damage. If you can’t identify the cause or the breaker keeps tripping, stop using the generator and contact a qualified electrician or generator technician.

 

Identify the Circuit Breaker

 

A circuit breaker is a safety switch that stops electricity flow when there’s too much current, preventing fires or equipment damage. Generators have built-in breakers and you may also have breakers in your home’s main panel. When the breaker “trips,” it moves to the OFF position.

 

Reduce the Load and Reset the Breaker

 

Electric generators produce a limited amount of power measured in watts. If you connect more appliances than your generator can handle, the breaker trips. To reset it:

• Turn off or unplug all appliances and lights powered by the generator.
• Locate the breaker switch on the generator (often near the outlets) or in your main electrical panel.
• Flip the switch fully to OFF, then back to ON. You should hear a click when it resets.
• Reconnect appliances one at a time, starting with the most critical.

 

Check for Overloads or Damaged Equipment

 

Overloads happen when devices draw more power than expected. A short circuit occurs when a hot wire touches another conductor or metal, causing a sudden surge. To inspect:

• Verify each appliance’s wattage (usually listed on a label) and compare the total to your generator’s capacity.
• Examine extension cords and power strips for cracks, frayed insulation, or burn marks.
• Look for loose connections at plugs and outlets—wobbly or scorched sockets can trigger trips.

 

Inspect Generator and Outlets

 

Mechanical faults or moisture can also trip breakers. Check:

• Oil and fuel levels—low lubrication or fuel can cause the engine to strain and draw extra current.
• Air and fuel filters—clogged filters make the engine work harder, increasing electrical demand.
• Generator housing—water or debris inside can create faults; keep it clean and dry.
• Outlet box—ensure no water has pooled and that internal wiring is intact.

 

When to Call a Professional

 

If the breaker still trips after you’ve reduced loads and inspected equipment, you may have a hidden fault or internal damage in the generator or home wiring. In regions such as St. Louis and Nashville, qualified technicians are available to:

• Perform diagnostic tests on generator windings, voltage regulators, and internal breakers.
• Check your home’s wiring and breaker panel for loose connections or worn components.
• Make repairs or recommend upgrades to ensure safe, reliable power.

 

Prevent Future Tripping

 

Regular upkeep minimizes surprises. Maintain your generator by:

• Running it monthly under light load to keep parts lubricated and confirm operation.
• Changing oil and filters every 50–100 hours or per the manufacturer’s guide.
• Testing breakers and replacing them if they become weak or slow to reset.
• Labeling which circuits are critical and managing loads during an outage.

With these steps, you’ll know how to quickly restore power and keep your generator running safely whenever breakers trip.