all the sockets in the house have stopped working. the trip switch keeps going off. it is my mothers house so not been used as up for sale. this has only happened over the last month.
Already Tried: nothing
Hi, I'm Norm and will try to help. Is every single receptacle dead?
Norm
Are you there? The panel says you are in the chat, but I don't see anything.
I'm going to switch the format from chat to Q and A to see if that will connect us. Also, I have to leave my computer for a few minutes. Be right back --- Norm
yes every socket. the lights are ok. there is nothing in any of the plug sockets but if you put the trip switch back on. it trips of in about 5mins.
Experience: Registered professional electrical engineer and licensed master electrician.
Our chat has ended, but you can still continue to ask me questions here until you are satisfied with your answer. Come back to this page to view our conversation and any other new information. What happens now? If you haven’t already done so, please rate your answer above. Or, you can reply to me using the box below.
There are a couple of things that can cause a delayed trip like that. One is certainly a defective breaker, although that is uncommon. Another is a loose connection that has persisted for a long time and has carbonized enough material around the connection to cause a high resistance short across the plastic receptacle. To check the breaker, change it for one you know is good. To check for a carbon limited fault, you will have to open every receptacle and inspect it visually. If you don't feel comfortable doing that, you might have to hire an electrician.Norm
I will be in and out over the next couple of hours, but will check back as soon as I returnNorm