STB Electrical and Communication Services Pty Ltd
Understanding Power Trips — What It Actually Means
⚠️ Why Does My Power Keep Tripping?
7 Common Electrical Faults in Perth Homes
- Blog, Electrical Faults, Electrical Safety, Electrical Services Perth, STB Electrical News & Advice
- July 26, 2025
Power tripping is more than just an annoyance — it’s your home’s electrical system doing its job. When your circuit breaker trips, it means it has detected an abnormality like an overload, short circuit, or fault that could pose a danger. In Perth homes, especially older properties or those with heavy appliance use, tripping is a common symptom of deeper electrical issues.
At STB Electrical, we’ve seen it all — from faulty kettles to ancient switchboards. Here’s what could be causing your power to cut out and what we can do to help.
🔍 The Usual Suspects: What Causes Power to Trip in Perth Homes?
From minor overloads to serious short circuits,
here’s what could be lurking behind your switchboard.
here’s what could be lurking behind your switchboard.
Power tripping can feel random — but it’s almost always triggered by something specific. At STB Electrical, we’ve pinpointed the most frequent causes across hundreds of Perth homes. The next sections break down the most common electrical faults we diagnose, what signs to watch for, and what you should do if they happen to you.
⚡ Fault: Overloaded 
Circuits
Overloaded circuits occur when too many appliances are connected to a single circuit, drawing more current than the wiring can handle. This is especially common in kitchens, home offices, or older homes without modern circuit layouts.
“Plugging a microwave, kettle, and toaster into the same outlet? That’s a classic overload scenario.”
Upgrading the circuit or redistributing the load is usually the best fix — and a licensed electrician should always assess the load capacity first.
🔥 Fault: Damaged or Faulty Appliances
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with your wiring — it’s with what’s plugged in. Old, worn, or faulty appliances can leak current, overheat, or short internally, causing the circuit to trip instantly.
“If your power trips every time you use the same appliance — unplug it and call us.”
Our electricians can perform isolation tests to confirm which appliance is the culprit.
🌧️ Fault: Moisture or 
Water Ingress
Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Outdoor power points, garage sockets, and bathroom lighting are frequent culprits when it comes to moisture-related tripping.
“In Perth’s coastal suburbs like Quinns Rocks or Mindarie, salt air and humidity increase this risk.”
STB Electrical uses moisture-rated equipment and performs waterproofing checks as part of our safety inspections.
💡 Fault: Downlights or Lighting Issues
Downlights can cause power trips due to overheating, poor insulation, or incompatible globes and transformers. Faulty wiring during installation or DIY fitting can also create risk.
“Poorly installed downlights can melt fittings or trigger residual current devices.”
We replace non-compliant fittings with safe, heat-managed lighting that meets Australian Standards.
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STB Electrical offers EV charger installs and fault finding with no call-out fee for locals in Joondalup.
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Available 24/7 for urgent electrical callouts — day or night, we’re just a phone call away.
🔌 Fault: Faulty Power Points or Switches
Cracked, discoloured, buzzing, or warm switches are all signs of trouble. These faults are common in older homes where fittings may not have been upgraded for decades.
“One faulty switch can take down an entire circuit — or worse, start a fire.”
We’ll test every outlet using professional tools to ensure safety and compliance.
🧯 Fault: Electrical Short Circuits
Short circuits occur when live wires touch neutral wires — creating a dangerous burst of electrical current. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
“If you smell burning or hear a pop before power trips — call us immediately.”
STB Electrical offers emergency callouts to resolve short circuits safely, 24/7.
🧠 Fault: Old or Outdated
Electrical Panels
Many Perth homes still use legacy fuse boxes or outdated switchboards that aren’t built to handle modern appliance loads. These panels trip frequently, offer poor protection, and can be a major fire risk.
“If your switchboard still uses ceramic fuses — it’s time for an upgrade.”
We specialise in modern switchboard replacements with safety switches and circuit breakers that meet WA regulations.
Conclusion
Fix the Problem Before It Gets Worse
Repeated power tripping isn’t just annoying — it’s your home warning you something’s wrong. With over 20 years of experience, licensed professionals, and a 24/7 callout promise, STB Electrical is the trusted name for fault finding and repair in Perth.
Our Proven Process
for Diagnosing Electrical Faults Safely
for Diagnosing Electrical Faults Safely
🔧
How STB Electrical Diagnoses & Fixes These Faults
Power tripping can feel random — but it’s almost always triggered by something specific. At STB Electrical, we’ve pinpointed the most frequent causes across hundreds of Perth homes. The next sections break down the most common electrical faults we diagnose, what signs to watch for, and what you should do if they happen to you.
- 🔍 Multimeter and RCD testing
- 🔌 Appliance isolation
- 🔥 Thermal imaging (if required)
- 📋 Full safety reporting
⚡ We’re Ready When Your Power Trips
Whether it’s 2 PM or 2 AM, our electricians are available 24/7 across Perth. From Joondalup to Alkimos, we respond fast
— with no call-out fees for local suburbs.
— with no call-out fees for local suburbs.
What Happens When You Call?
🚨 Our Emergency Process:
We don’t just restore power — we solve the root cause. Here’s how STB Electrical handles urgent fault calls:
We’ll ask the right questions to quickly identify if the issue is urgent, and guide you through any immediate safety steps while help is on the way.
Our licensed electricians are always on standby. If you're within our service zone, we’ll be at your door — fast.
We don’t just flip switches. We isolate the cause, carry out safe, compliant repairs, and ensure everything is fully functional before we leave.
For work that requires certification, we’ll issue a formal compliance document — so you’re fully covered and protected under WA law.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late — Diagnose Electrical Faults Early
🔎 Is Your Power Tripping Repeatedly?
Don’t ignore the signs — it could be a major fault.
Our licensed electricians in Perth offer fast diagnostics and repairs for homes across Joondalup, Quinns Rocks, and beyond.
💡 Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late — Diagnose Electrical Faults Early
Tripping Power Is a Sign — Not a Coincidence
Common Questions About Hiring a Licensed Electrician in Perth
🔋 Frequently Asked Questions
Hiring an electrician isn’t something most people do every day — so it’s completely normal to have a few questions. Whether you’re wondering about license checks, insurance, or what to expect on the job, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions STB Electrical receives from clients across Perth. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your next job with confidence.
You can verify via the WA Building & Energy licensing portal or simply ask—we’ll gladly help.
Yep! We're available 24/7, fully licensed, and insured—even for late-night issues.
Try unplugging appliances one by one and resetting the breaker. If it still trips, call an electrician.
This could be related to a faulty appliance like a dishwasher or heater activating on a timer.
Yes. Tripping is a safety mechanism, but the underlying issue (like a short or overload) can be a fire risk.
If your home still uses fuses or has frequent tripping, yes — an upgrade is recommended.
Some are — but only if the work is performed by a licensed electrician. Always ask your insurer.
