How to Troubleshoot Distribution Box Install Issues at Home

Quick answer (read this first)

• Immediately turn off your home’s main power supply.
• Visually inspect the distribution box for tripped breakers, loose wires, or any signs of burning.
• Reset tripped breakers by pushing them fully OFF then ON.
• If the issue persists or if you notice severe damage, call a certified electrician promptly.

Safety first

• NEVER touch electrical components without ensuring the main power supply to your home is completely OFF.
• Use insulated tools designed for electrical work.
• Wear rubber-soled shoes and avoid working in damp conditions.
• Do not work alone; have someone nearby who knows how to turn off the main power in an emergency.
• If you see sparks, smoke, or smell burning, immediately turn off power and call a professional.

Tools you may need

• Insulated screwdriver set
• Voltage tester or Multimeter (optional, for professional use)
• Flashlight
• Work gloves
• Safety glasses

Step-by-step

Step 1

Prioritize Safety & Disconnect Main Power: Before any inspection, locate your home’s main circuit breaker (usually a large switch near your meter or main distribution panel) and switch it completely to the ‘OFF’ position. Verify all power to your home is cut.

Step 2

Access the Distribution Box Safely: Using insulated tools, carefully unscrew and open the cover of your main distribution box. Maintain a safe distance and avoid direct contact with any internal components.

Step 3

Perform a Thorough Visual Inspection: Visually scan the interior of the distribution box for any obvious signs of damage. Look for burnt smells, discolored wires, scorch marks, melted insulation, or visibly loose wires. These are critical indicators of serious issues.

Step 4

Identify Tripped Circuit Breakers: Locate any circuit breakers that are in the ‘tripped’ position. This is typically indicated by the switch being midway between ‘ON’ and ‘OFF’, or sometimes fully ‘OFF’.

Step 5

Reset Tripped Breakers: For each tripped breaker, firmly push the switch completely to the ‘OFF’ position first, and then push it back to the ‘ON’ position. Do not force it if it feels stuck.

Step 6

Check for Minor Loose Connections (Visual Only): While maintaining a safe distance and without touching, visually inspect individual wire terminals on the breakers for any wires that appear visibly loose or detached. Do NOT attempt to tighten any connections yourself.

Step 7

Secure and Restore Power: Carefully close and secure the distribution box cover. Then, return to your main circuit breaker and switch the power back to ‘ON’.

Step 8

Test and Observe for Recurrence: Check if power has been restored to the affected areas. If a breaker trips again immediately, the problem persists, or if you noticed any burning signs during inspection, proceed to the ‘When to Call a Pro’ section.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting to turn off the main power supply before working inside the distribution box.
• Repeatedly resetting a breaker without investigating the underlying cause.
• Assuming the issue is resolved after a simple reset without checking for loose connections.
• Overloading circuits by connecting too many high-power appliances.
• Not understanding the labeling of breakers, leading to incorrect troubleshooting.

When to call a professional

• If you observe any burning smells, smoke, or visible sparks within the distribution box.
• If the main circuit breaker or any individual breaker trips immediately after being reset.
• If you find extensive damage, melted wires, or charred components inside the box.
• If you are uncomfortable or unsure about any step of the troubleshooting process.
• If you lack the necessary tools or electrical knowledge to safely perform checks.
• If after performing basic troubleshooting steps, the power issue persists or worsens.