Electrical · fix it
Half the house has no power? Here's what to do first
Resetting a breaker takes ten seconds, but stance and technique matter. Here is the safe way, and the signs that mean stop and call an electrician.
DIY with caution
Doable for a careful homeowner — read the safety note first and stop if anything doesn't match what you see.
Beginner About 10 min
Never remove the panel cover. Repeated tripping, heat, buzzing or any burnt smell is licensed electrician work.
Video: Professor Butler HVAC (YouTube)
What to do, in order
- Step 1: Unplug or switch off whatever was running when the power dropped.
- Step 2: At the panel, stand to the side and keep the panel door between you and the breakers.
- Step 3: Find the breaker sitting between ON and OFF, push it firmly fully to OFF, then back to ON.
- Step 4: If it trips again immediately, leave it off — the circuit has a fault.
- Step 5: Burning smell, scorch marks, buzzing or a warm panel means stop and call a licensed electrician.
Not quite your problem? Describe what's happening or browse all common problems.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Enter your ZIP code to get matched with trusted local help, anywhere in the U.S.
This page also helps with
- breaker keeps tripping
- outlets dead in one room
- how to reset breaker