Breaker trips repeatedly after being reset
Breaker will not reset
Breaker feels hot to the touch
Burning smell near the panel
Visible scorch marks or discoloration on the breaker
Breaker makes buzzing, crackling, or popping sounds
Lights or appliances lose power intermittently on the same circuit
Breaker handle feels loose or does not stay in position
Breaker trips with no obvious overload or short
Breaker shows physical damage, cracks, or melted parts
Breaker is older and has become unreliable
Voltage is present on the circuit when the breaker appears off
Other breakers in the panel are functioning normally but this one is not
A qualified electrician confirms the breaker is failing