[kappers]

One circuit breaker in electrical box began tripping after construction workers used a particular plug outlet with a powerful tool. The breaker controls electricity in garage, powder room, entrance hall. Now the breaker does not stay on when reset. Feels flimsy. Does this mean the breaker is broken or some other problem? I would appreciate any input from an electrician. Thank you! Kathy

[ma0641]

If it keeps tripping, they may have damaged the wiring. If it just won't reset, breaker is probably bad from being continually overloaded, the contacts will distort from the heat and not reset. Typical breaker is <$10 unless it is a GF or AF breaker. Just replace it with the same ampacity.

[hfcarson]

Kathy,
Based on the description you've given it sounds like
The circuit breaker. If it's a relatively new panel a replacement
Breaker should only be a few dollars.
***Be careful, be sure to replace this with the same "make", "model" and type...
If your house is very new It may be an Arc Fault or Ground Fault circuit breaker
Be sure to replace with same!

If this doesn't cure the issue, let us know.

Be Safe

[hkstroud]

Feels flimsy

Would that be the same thing as feels springy when pushed toward the center of the panel?
If so that means it is not reset.

when reset

Does that mean that it was turned off and then back on?
To reset a breaker it must be turned off and then back on.

If the breaker will not reset, I would look for something wrong in the outlet that was used by the construction workers.

garage, powder room and exterior outlet

That almost guarantees that it is a GFI circuit.

[tkrussell]

This practice:

Now, turn the main breaker(s) back on and swich the replacement breaker to the on position.

If it stays on, then switch the main breakers off and reinstall the cover followed by turning the breakers back on.

Should NOT BE DONE.

Turning a Main Breaker on without the cover is dangerous, and not recommended.

Working in a live panel must be done by qualified personnel, wearing the proper protective gear.

Any panel with a Main Breaker is still considered LIVE, with the breaker off.

The people here giving advice need to be aware of the dangers working in live equipment, and understand that there are Codes and laws now in effect, specifically prohibiting any work on live equipment, with few exceptions.

Homes with panels that contain Main Breakers are an issue. Power cannot be completey shut off without removing the meter.

Situations like this must be explained to homeowners and Do it Yourself'ers, and the best advice is to hire an electrician.