How to Reset a Trip Switch

What Is a Trip Switch?

A trip switch (circuit breaker) is a safety device in your consumer unit that automatically cuts power to a circuit when it detects a fault such as overloading, a short circuit, or a faulty appliance. It prevents fires and electric shocks.

Step 1 — Identify the Tripped Switch

Open your consumer unit (usually a white or grey box fixed to the wall). Look for any switch that is in the middle position or pointing downward rather than fully up. This is the tripped circuit.

Step 2 — Unplug Appliances on That Circuit

Before resetting, unplug all appliances on the affected circuit. If it is the kitchen ring main, unplug the kettle, toaster, microwave etc. This prevents a faulty appliance from immediately tripping the circuit again.

Step 3 — Reset the Switch

Push the tripped switch firmly down (off) first, then push it back up to the on position. It should click firmly into place. If the power comes back on and stays on, the problem was likely a temporary overload.

Step 4 — Identify the Cause

Plug appliances back in one at a time. If the circuit trips again when you plug in a specific appliance, that appliance is faulty and should not be used until repaired. If the circuit trips immediately with nothing plugged in, there is a wiring fault that needs an electrician.

When to Call an Electrician

Call an electrician if the trip switch will not reset, the circuit trips repeatedly with no obvious cause, you smell burning from the consumer unit, or the consumer unit feels warm to the touch.