---
title: "What Is Overload? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "An overload is too much current for a circuit's wire or equipment rating. It heats the wire and can trip a breaker."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Overload

An overload is too much current for a circuit's wire or equipment rating. It heats the wire and can trip a breaker.

OSHA defines overload as operation of equipment above its normal full-load rating, or of a conductor above its rated ampacity, that would cause damage or dangerous overheating if it lasts. A short circuit or ground fault is not an overload. The CPSC gives a plain cause: plugging too many products into one circuit.

A [circuit breaker](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/circuit-breaker) trips to stop an overload before the wire overheats. If one keeps tripping, do not just reset it. Unplug some loads, and call a licensed electrician if it continues. A [short circuit](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/short-circuit) is the other common cause. See [why a breaker keeps tripping](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/blog/breaker-keeps-tripping).

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Short circuit](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/short-circuit)
-   [Circuit breaker](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/circuit-breaker)
-   [Ampacity](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/ampacity)
-   [Amperage](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/amperage)

## 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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