Testing Circuits and Circuit Breakers

How to Identify Electrical Circuit Failures and Resolve the Problem © By: Dave Rongey

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How to Identify Electrical Circuit Failures
[ad#block]Electrical Question: I have three outlets in my kitchen, the breaker kept tripping and I thought my breaker needed to be replaced as I had one that actually did (now I believe it was my very old microwave (circa 1984) that was causing the tripping.

• The problem is this, after I replaced the breaker and now none of the outlets are working.
• I did take the old breaker with me to the store so as to get a correct replacement.
• There is juice coming from the breaker.They are on a circuit that went to an old 220v air conditioner.
• These outlets predate GFI, so none are GFI.

This electrical question came from: Rhonda, a Handy-woman from Des Moines, Iowa

See more about Home Wiring for Iowa

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Rhonda

Identifying Electrical Circuit Failures

Circuit Troubles and Circuit Breaker

Home Electrical Circuit Repairs

• The problem with the described circuit was most likely not the circuit breaker, although at times circuit breakers do go bad, however solving problems with a circuit that does not have power requires a process of elimination.
• The first thing is to unplug everything from the circuit to see if the problem is with one of the appliances.
• This is a process that is best provided by a licensed electrical contractor which involves identifying and testing the circuit from the point of entry and throughout the circuit path.
• Once the problem is discovered the competent electrician will know how to make the repairs which are generally due to a bad connection with one of the wires, which is usually found at one of the device outlet receptacles.

RESOURCES

Electrical Outlet Wiring

Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home

Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.

Circuit Wiring

Electrical Circuit Wiring

This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

Using Testers to Identify Electrical Problems

Testers to Help Solve Electrical Problems

Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
Types of Electrical Testers

Using Electrical Testers