The Charger Keeps Tripping the Breaker

Commonly Occurs After

  1. An extension cord is being used between the charger and the wall outlet
  2. Too many items are plugged into the same circuit
  3. Freezer or refrigerator cycles on

Primary Problem

Using a long or problematic extension cord.

The longer the extension cord, the more resistance and inconsistency in the chargers draw on the outlet, causing issues and surges for the breaker. Extension cords are also often susceptible to knicks and grounding issues. 

How to Confirm

  1. Unplug the charger from the extension cord and cart
  2. Reset the breaker and GFCI on the outlet
  3. Plug the charger directly into the wall without an extension cord
  4. Plug the charger into your cart

Secondary Problem

The breaker or GFCI outlet trips when trying to run the charger.

The most common sign of an overloaded or worn-out breaker/GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is frequent tripping. When a circuit draws more current than it's designed to handle, a properly functioning breaker/GFCI will "trip" or shut off to prevent overheating and potential electrical fires. If a breaker trips frequently, it's often a sign that the circuit is consistently worn out and can’t handle the same current that it originally could.

How to Confirm

  1. Locate the Breaker/GFI: If the breaker is tripping, identify the circuit breaker. This will usually be in your home's breaker box. If the GFCI outlet is tripping, locate the outlet with the GFI.
  2. Plug in the Hair Dryer: Plug the hair dryer into the outlet that has tripped your breaker/GFCI.
  3. Turn On the Hair Dryer Set the hair dryer to its highest setting: This will ensure that a significant amount of current is drawn from the circuit, which is necessary for the test.
  4. Observe the Breaker/GFCI: While the hair dryer is running, observe the breaker in the breaker box or outlet with the GFCI. A properly functioning breaker/GFCI should remain in the "on" position without tripping. If the breaker/GFCI trips (switches off) with the hair dryer turned on, it may indicate an issue with the breaker or the circuit.

How To Fix

 

 

Contact a certified electrician for recommendations.

Back to blog