Is Your Circuit Breaker Buzzing? Discover What It Could Mean
The circuit breaker is designed to work smoothly and efficiently. If the component produces a buzzing sound, it can be a huge red flag for the homeowner. It can point to a variety of issues, many of which require immediate attention.
Here are some of the most common causes of buzzing circuit breakers:
VIBRATING ELECTRICAL CURRENT
If you can hear light humming from the circuit breaker, it's most likely harmless. The noise is produced by vibrating electrical currents and can be perceived when standing close to the unit. As a result, there's usually no reason to take action.
Still, homeowners who are uneasy about this situation can hire an electrician to examine the component. They'll determine if the sound is typical or an early sign of a faulty breaker.
DAMAGED OR LOOSE WIRING
Damaged or loose wiring tends to cause a buzzing noise accompanied by occasional sparks. To avoid further damage to the component, reach out to a local electrician and don't try to fix the problem by yourself. Loose wiring can trigger an electrical arc, which can inflict severe injuries and even cause death.
TRIP FAILURES
When moderate or soft electrical buzzing noises become persistent and loud, it can present a considerable risk if left unchecked. In most cases, disconcertingly loud sounds are produced by trip failures.
Circuit breakers are crucial for protecting the electrical system from overheating, surges, and overloads. When one of these events occurs, the breaker trips and deactivates, cutting power to the affected site. Consequently, it helps protect the wires throughout the house and any connected appliances.
But if the breaker is faulty, it can lose control of the tripping during overloads. In this case, the breaker box may start buzzing, creating a significant potential for fire hazards. Breakers that fail to trip should be replaced promptly to safeguard against life-threatening injuries and considerable structural damage.
Breakers that can't trip are prevalent in older houses with outdated electrical systems and wiring. They can't keep up with the higher energy demands of modern households and appliances. The best solution to this issue is to install new wiring. It can cope with greater electrical demand without frequent tripping, allowing you to avoid short circuits, brownouts, and other common problems.
HOW TO REPLACE A CIRCUIT BREAKER
It's best to leave replacing a circuit breaker to the experts. They possess all the tools and knowledge to perform the job safely. But if you still decide to do the work without professional help, here are a few tips:
Turn off the power at the box by shutting down the electrical main.
Stand on plywood or a rubber surface to reduce the risk of electrocution.
Verify the box is receiving no current using a voltage tester.
Loosen the breaker by pulling the outer side toward the center.
Slide the item out and remove the wiring with an insulated screwdriver.
Install the new breaker.
Replacing the breaker on your own is possible, but again, it is not a recommended DIY project. It is best to hire licensed electricians to avoid any problems.
Evenflow Home and Commercial Services offer residential and commercial electrical, plumbing, and HVAC services in San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and surrounding cities. Call us at 210-941-3503 today!
