---
title: "What Is Circuit breaker? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "A circuit breaker is a switch that opens a circuit by itself when current gets too high. It can be reset once the cause is fixed."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/circuit-breaker
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Safety devices

# Circuit breaker

A circuit breaker is a switch that opens a circuit by itself when current gets too high. It can be reset once the cause is fixed.

OSHA defines a circuit breaker as a device that opens and closes a circuit by nonautomatic means and opens the circuit automatically on a set overcurrent without damage to itself. In a home, breakers sit in the [breaker panel](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/breaker-panel). Each one protects a circuit from an [overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload) or a [short circuit](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/short-circuit).

The CPSC tells people to find out why a breaker trips, not just reset it. A trip is often a warning that the circuit is overloaded. When in doubt, call a licensed electrician. See [why a breaker keeps tripping](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/blog/breaker-keeps-tripping).

[Daniel Electric can helpElectrical panel repair and replacement](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrical-panel-repair-replacement)

## Related terms

-   [Breaker panel](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/breaker-panel)
-   [Overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload)
-   [Short circuit](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/short-circuit)
-   [Main breaker](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/main-breaker)

## Sources

1.  [OSHA: 1910.399 Definitions applicable to this subpart](https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.399)
2.  [CPSC: Commission Closes Investigation Of FPE Circuit Breakers And Provides Safety Information For Consumers](https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/1983/Commission-Closes-Investigation-Of-FPE-Circuit-Breakers-And-Provides-Safety-Information-For-Consumers)

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## Need an electrician in Southlake?

Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

[Call (817) 481-8606](tel:+1-817-481-8606)[Get a quote](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact)

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