Main breaker won't reset

Symptoms

• Entire house has no power
• Main breaker at the top of the panel is tripped or won't stay switched on
• Resetting it trips again immediately or after a few seconds

Likely causes

• CommonA major short or overload somewhere in the houseA serious fault on one branch circuit can be severe enough to trip the main.
• PossibleA failed main breakerMain breakers wear out like any other breaker and can fail even without a fault.
• PossibleA problem at the meter or utility serviceUtility-side issues can sometimes present as the main breaker tripping.
• PossibleStorm damage or a surge eventA lightning strike or major surge can trip and sometimes damage the main breaker.

What to do

1. Turn off all individual branch breakers in the panel first.
2. Try resetting the main breaker with everything else off.
3. If the main holds with branches off, turn branch breakers back on one at a time to find the faulty circuit.
4. If the main won't hold even with everything else off, the main breaker or service itself likely has a fault.
5. Do not keep forcing the main breaker to stay on if it trips repeatedly.
6. Call your utility if you suspect a service-side issue, especially after a storm.
7. Call a licensed electrician if the main breaker won't reset with all branches off.

When to call a pro

Call a licensed electrician or your utility right away if the main breaker won't stay on, especially after ruling out a single branch circuit fault.

Safety