What may cause a power trip
First check whether only one circuit or room is affected, or whether the entire unit and nearby properties have lost supply. A local circuit trip usually moves one protective device in the distribution board; a main-supply interruption may involve the main switch, meter supply or an external outage.
- Faulty appliance, charger, extension lead or power strip.
- Too many high-load appliances operating on one circuit.
- Damaged cable, socket, switch or light fitting.
- Water entering an electrical point or appliance.
- Insulation leakage or a fault within the fixed installation.
Checks that do not require opening electrical equipment
Only perform simple observation and isolation steps. Do not remove covers, touch exposed conductors or bypass protective devices. An MCB normally protects a circuit against overload and short circuit, while an RCCB detects leakage current that could create shock risk. Either device can trip because a fault needs attention.
- Note which appliance or room was in use immediately before the trip.
- Unplug portable appliances from the affected area.
- Look for water, scorch marks, unusual heat or damaged plugs without touching them.
- Keep the suspected item switched off until checked.
When urgent electrical help is appropriate
Seek prompt professional help when there is smoke, burning smell, sparking, electric shock, heat at the distribution board, water near electrical equipment, or the protective device will not remain on.
Circuit testing, distribution-board work, fixed wiring, MCB or RCCB replacement and fault diagnosis must be handled by an appropriately licensed electrical worker. An indicative troubleshooting range is S$60–S$120 before parts or wider rectification.
