What to do if your fuse keeps tripping
If your fuse or circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s a sign that something is wrong. It could be a faulty appliance, overloaded circuit, or a wiring fault. Constantly resetting it without finding the cause can be dangerous and may lead to electrical fires.
Step-by-step:
Switch off the tripped breaker at your consumer unit.
Unplug all appliances on that circuit.
Turn the breaker back on with everything unplugged.
Plug items back in one at a time until the breaker trips — the last item plugged in is likely the cause.
Stop using the faulty appliance or circuit until it’s repaired or inspected.
Do not:
Do not keep resetting the breaker without investigating.
Do not try to bypass or replace fuses with incorrect ratings.
Do not open the consumer unit beyond the breakers unless qualified.
Possible causes:
Faulty appliance.
Overloaded sockets or extension leads.
Wiring fault in the circuit.
Moisture in sockets or wiring (common in outdoor circuits).
When to call an electrician:
If the breaker trips again after unplugging everything.
If more than one circuit is affected.
If there are burning smells, scorch marks, or buzzing sounds.
Safety tip:
Your fuse or breaker is protecting you — if it keeps tripping, it’s telling you there’s a problem. Find the cause or call a professional immediately.
Power in Numbers
20,000+
Electrical fires occur in UK homes every year
(Source: Electrical Safety First)
Over 50%
Of all accidental house fires in the UK are caused by faulty electrics or misuse of electrical products
(Source: UK Home Office)
1 in 5
UK homes have electrical wiring over 50 years old, increasing the risk of faults and tripping
(Source: Electrical Safety First survey)
Examples
See some common types of Fuseboards
