Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker is an automatic safety switch that cuts power when electrical currents become dangerous, protecting your home from fires and damage. Whether you're dealing with a breaker that keeps tripping, need to upgrade an outdated panel, or want to add capacity for new appliances, understanding your electrical system matters. Angi connects you with local pros and resources to keep your home's power running safely.

Related to Circuit Breaker Service

Circuit Breaker Service Articles and Advice
Jenna Jonaitis  •  May 5, 2026
Why Is My Arc Fault Circuit Breaker Tripping?
When your circuit breaker trips, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Here are the main reasons why your arc fault breaker keeps tripping and tips to find and fix the issues.
Breyden Kellam  •  May 3, 2026
How to Fix a Short Circuit in Your Home
Before hiring a pro, you may be able to fix a short circuit on your own. Learn how to fix a short circuit with our step-by-step DIY guide.
Paige Bennett  •  May 3, 2026
Does a Sump Pump Need a Dedicated Circuit? What to Know Before Installation
Does a sump pump need a dedicated circuit? Find out the wiring and electrical requirements for installing a sump pump in your home.
Becca Stokes  •  May 2, 2026
6 Appliances That Trip Circuit Breakers and Potential Solutions
If you’ve got a short circuit for tripped breakers, you’re not alone. There’s nothing more frustrating than appliances that trip breakers, causing you to lose power. Learn which appliances are prone to tripping and what you can do about it.
Matt Marandola  •  May 2, 2026
What Is an AFCI Breaker and How Does It Work?
AFCI breakers are a continuation of new breaker technology that works to prevent fire hazards, increase overall electrical safety, and detect potential damages.
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  May 2, 2026
Top Reasons Your Oven Keeps Tripping the Circuit Breaker
If your oven keeps tripping a breaker, you're either dealing with an issue with your oven or a problem with your home's wiring. Here's how to troubleshoot why your oven is tripping your breaker repeatedly.
Audrey Bruno  •  May 2, 2026
How to Wire a Breaker Box in 12 Steps
Although wiring a main breaker box is a job that’s better left to a pro, this guide will show you how to wire a breaker on your own, from box start to finish.
Alison Kasch  •  May 2, 2026
6 Types of Circuit Breakers to Consider for Your Home
Discover the various types of circuit breakers, their unique features, pros and cons, and the best applications for each in this comprehensive guide.
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Common Circuit Breaker Service Questions

You can identify Federal Pacific Stab-Lok® breakers by the label on the front of the panel that says “Federal Pacific” or “FPE” and the breaker itself should say “Stab-Lok®” either on the face of the panel or a label inside the panel door. The Stab-Lok® breakers are also usually red on the breaker switch.

A full home inspection can cost nearly $350 on average, but inspecting the breaker box specifically is likely to be lower, between $100 and $200. Don’t confuse this service with a basic breaker trip check, which doesn’t take long and is usually billed at $40 to $50 per hour.

If the electrician discovers a serious problem and needs to replace a breaker, it can cost between $100 and $200 in additional expenses. Although rare, replacing the electrical panel typically costs between $500 and $2,000.

Knowing if and when your circuit breaker is failing or faulty can prevent costly damage. If you notice any of the following signs, call a local electrician to help. 

  • The breaker frequently trips

  • The breaker doesn't stay in the 'on' position or reset properly

  • You hear buzzing or humming noises coming from the breaker

  • There's discoloration around the breaker switch

  • There's a burning smell or visible signs of damage on the breaker

The major difference between a GFCI breaker and an AFCI breaker is that a GFCI breaker protects against fatal shocks while an AFCI breaker prevent electrical fires. A GFCI breaker senses when the electrical current to ground is overloaded and trips to prevent major accidents or injuries. AFCI breakers trip when it detects dangerous electrical arcing.

A bigger breaker alone probably won’t fix your problem of frequent tripping. But if you upgrade an electrical circuit to a higher amp rating, or upgrade your breaker box to handle more amps, it could solve your tripping problems. Consult a qualified electrician about the best course of action.