Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping: Is it Time for a Heavy-Up?
If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it’s a sign your electrical system might be overworked or outdated. Whether it happens when you turn on the microwave or plug in your hair dryer, frequent trips are your home’s way of waving a red flag.
At SESCOS, we’ve helped countless homeowners troubleshoot these frustrating issues, find the root cause, and upgrade their electrical panels when necessary. Sometimes the fix is simple; other times, it’s a clear sign that your system needs a heavy-up—a service that increases your home’s electrical capacity to safely handle modern energy demands.
In this article, we’ll help you understand why your circuit breaker keeps tripping, what a heavy-up involves, and why upgrading your panel might be the best solution for your safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
Why Does My Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping?
Let’s start with the basics. A circuit breaker keeps tripping when it senses more electricity flowing through the circuit than it can handle safely. This feature is designed to protect your home from overheating wires, fires, and potential shocks.
But if your breaker trips constantly, it usually means one of these things:
- Overloaded circuits: Too many appliances are plugged into one circuit.
- Outdated panel: Your panel might not have the capacity to handle today’s electrical needs.
- Faulty breakers or wiring: Wear and tear over the years can cause malfunctions.
While occasional trips may be normal, frequent tripping is a warning sign that should not be ignored.
Common Signs You Need More Than a Quick Fix
If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, look for these additional signs that point to a bigger issue:
1. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Does the room darken when you start the dishwasher or HVAC kicks on? This indicates your panel may be struggling to distribute power evenly.
2. Relying on Extension Cords and Power Strips
If your home looks like a maze of cords and power strips, it’s a sign you don’t have enough outlets—and your panel might not support adding more without an upgrade.
3. Outdated Electrical Panel
Homes with panels over 25–30 years old often can’t handle today’s tech-heavy lifestyle. Some older models are even known for safety failures.
4. Burning Smells or Warm Panels
If your breaker box feels hot or emits a burning smell, shut off your power immediately and call a professional. These are critical safety risks that go beyond tripping breakers.
5. You Plan to Add New Appliances or Upgrades
Thinking of installing an EV charger, new HVAC system, or home addition? Your current panel might not have the capacity to support these projects without tripping.
What Is a Heavy-Up, and How Does It Help?
A heavy-up is the professional term for increasing the amperage capacity of your main electrical panel—typically from 100 amps to 200 amps. This upgrade allows your system to deliver more electricity to your home safely.
Most older homes were designed to support much lower electrical loads. But with today’s modern appliances, smart devices, and home offices, the demand has skyrocketed. A circuit breaker that keeps tripping is often your first clue that your home’s power needs have outgrown its current capacity.
A heavy-up gives your home the breathing room it needs to function safely and efficiently.
Benefits of a Heavy-Up When Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
Upgrading your electrical panel does more than stop tripping breakers. It provides several valuable benefits:
Improved Safety and Code Compliance
A new panel is built to modern safety codes, helping prevent electrical fires, shocks, and other hazards.
Increased Electrical Capacity
A 200-amp panel can support multiple high-powered appliances running at the same time—without the hassle of tripping.
Supports Smart Home and Green Tech
If you’re considering EV chargers, solar panels, or home generators, a heavy-up prepares your home to handle these upgrades.
Boosts Home Value
Modern homebuyers expect safe, up-to-date electrical systems. An upgraded panel makes your home more appealing to buyers and appraisers.
Saves Money in the Long Run
While it’s an investment, a heavy-up helps prevent expensive emergency repairs, appliance damage, and unsafe wiring conditions caused by overworked panels.
What’s the Cost of a Heavy-Up?
According to Home Inspection Insider, upgrading to a 200-amp panel in the U.S. typically costs between $1,630 to $4,070, with an average around $2,730. Factors that influence the cost include:
- Panel location
- Permit and inspection fees
- Any necessary rewiring or service upgrades
While it might seem like a big-ticket item, the cost is small compared to the safety, comfort, and long-term benefits it brings.
Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping? When to Call a Licensed Electrician
If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s tempting to ignore it or try to reset it yourself. However, electrical panels are complex systems, and addressing these issues without proper knowledge can be dangerous.
That’s why at SESCOS, we always recommend bringing in a licensed, experienced electrician to:
- Evaluate your panel and circuits
- Identify the root cause of the trips
- Provide honest guidance on whether repair or replacement is needed
We never recommend guessing when it comes to your family’s safety.
Can I Repair My Panel Instead of Upgrading?
In some cases, repairing your panel—such as replacing a faulty breaker—might solve the problem. But if your panel is outdated, underpowered, or showing signs of wear, repairing it might just delay the inevitable.
Our SESCOS electricians will always assess your situation and give you the facts, helping you choose the safest and most cost-effective option.
Ready to Stop Tripping Breakers for Good?
When your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s your home’s way of saying, “I can’t handle the load anymore.” Rather than putting up with frustration—or worse, risking your safety—take action today.
At SESCOS, we help homeowners in Northern Virginia and beyond modernize their homes, avoid dangerous electrical issues, and power their lives safely and efficiently.
Contact us now to schedule an inspection or get a quote for a heavy-up.
Explore our Electrical Services to see how we can help you future-proof your home.
External Source:
Home Inspection Insider – Electrical Panel Upgrade Guide