Power Keeps Going Out

Understanding the Problem and Fixing It

Picture this. You’re cooking dinner, finishing up a work project, or finally relaxing in front of the TV. Then, the lights flicker and suddenly go out. Not again.

If you’re frequently asking, Why does the power in my house keep going out?, you’re not alone.

Recurring power outages, whether limited to a single room or affecting the entire home, are more than a nuisance. They often point to underlying electrical issues that could pose safety risks if ignored.

This article explores the most common causes of persistent power loss, the types of power outages you may experience, and the best steps toward restoring power safely. Whether you live in a house or an apartment, we’ll help you figure out what’s going wrong and when to call in an expert.

Types of Power Outages and Their Causes

Power outages fall into several categories, each with distinct triggers and solutions. Recognizing the type you’re experiencing can help diagnose the root cause more effectively.

1. Localized Outage in One Room

If the power keeps going out in just one room, the issue is likely internal and isolated to that circuit. This could stem from a tripped circuit breaker, faulty electrical wiring, or a malfunctioning outlet.

2. Whole-House Outage

When the entire house goes dark, it’s typically due to external factors such as utility grid failures, weather events, or transformer malfunctions. However, it could also be caused by a failing electrical panel.

3. Intermittent or Rolling Power Loss

Power that cuts out sporadically across different rooms or appliances can indicate overloaded circuits, aging wiring, or a panel that no longer meets the demands of modern energy use.

Learn how to choose the best electrician near you.

Top Reasons the Power in Your Home Keeps Going Out

Let’s explore the most common internal causes behind recurring power loss and what each one might mean.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

A tripped circuit breaker is one of the most frequent culprits of power interruptions, especially in individual rooms. Breakers trip when the current flowing through them exceeds safe levels.

Common scenarios include:

• Running too many high-wattage devices on one circuit
• Faulty appliances creating short circuits
• Loose or deteriorated wiring creating electrical imbalance

Solution: Locate your electrical panel and look for any breaker switches that are out of alignment. Flip the tripped breaker fully off, then back on. If the same breaker trips repeatedly, the system likely needs inspection and possibly rewiring.

Faulty Electrical Wiring

Old, degraded, or improperly installed wiring can cause circuits to short or disconnect unexpectedly. If your power keeps going out in certain rooms, or if lights dim and flicker before shutting off, you may be dealing with faulty electrical wiring.

Other warning signs:

• Buzzing sounds from outlets
• Burn marks around switches or sockets
• A burning smell near your breaker panel

In these cases, power issues are more than just annoying. They can become dangerous. Electrical fires account for a significant percentage of home fires each year.

Solution: A licensed electrician should examine and potentially replace the affected wiring to restore safe and reliable function.

🛠️ Related article: Common Electrical Problems at Home

GFCI Outlet Malfunctions

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are required in areas with potential water exposure, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. These outlets protect against electric shock by shutting off power when a ground fault is detected.

If a GFCI outlet trips and doesn’t reset properly, it can shut down not just one plug but every outlet downstream on the same circuit.

Solution: Locate the tripped GFCI and press the reset button. If the issue recurs, you may need to replace the outlet or check for moisture, wiring faults, or a damaged appliance.

Electrical Panel Issues or Incompatibility

If your home has an outdated panel or you’ve recently added more appliances or EV chargers, your panel may no longer support your current load requirements.

Signs you may need an electrical panel upgrade include:

• Breakers that trip for no clear reason
• Power loss during simultaneous appliance use
• Warm or buzzing panel components
• A panel brand that’s no longer code-compliant (e.g., Zinsco, Federal Pacific)

Solution: Consider a full inspection of your electrical system. Modern panels support smart monitoring and improved surge protection, and they reduce the risk of outages and fire hazards.

📘 Read more: Importance of an Annual Home Electric Inspection

Overloaded Circuits in Apartments or Condos

Shared living spaces often have limited capacity per unit. Using high-draw appliances like portable heaters or AC units can push your circuit beyond safe limits.

Solution: Minimize simultaneous use of power-hungry devices and have your apartment’s electrical capacity evaluated if outages occur frequently.

External Factors: Weather, Grid Failures, and Surges

If power keeps going out in your area, the problem might be beyond your home. Heavy winds, snowstorms, utility equipment failures, or even mischievous squirrels chewing on transformers can all interrupt service.

Solution: Check with your utility provider to confirm local outages. In areas with frequent grid interruptions, installing a backup generator or whole-home surge protector can protect your electronics and improve continuity.

🚨 Learn more: What is Considered an Electrical Emergency?

Restoring Power and Preventing Future Outages

Once you’ve identified the issue, the next step is restoring power safely and preventing future occurrences.

Do-It-Yourself Steps

• Unplug devices on the affected circuit before resetting the breaker
• Test and reset GFCI outlets
• Avoid overloading outlets or using daisy-chained extension cords

When to Call a Professional

If power loss is consistent, unexplained, or accompanied by burning smells or visual damage, contact a licensed electrician immediately. Ignoring these signs can lead to equipment damage or serious hazards.

The Electricians provide expert diagnostics, rewiring, electrical panel upgrades, and code-compliant solutions across Colorado.

Need help fast? Schedule your inspection here

Stop Wondering Why the Power Keeps Going Out

If you’ve been Googling “why does the power keep going out in my house” more than once this month, it’s time to get some answers.

Whether you’re dealing with a tripped circuit breaker, faulty electrical wiring, or something more serious, it’s important to act before a small problem becomes a dangerous one.

At The Electricians, we combine deep technical expertise with reliable service to make sure your home stays safe, efficient, and powered up.

Call 720-633-5937 or reach out online to get started. Because when it comes to your electrical system, being proactive always beats being left in the dark.