Loose Connections: Because electrical resistance increases wherever loose connections exist, a loose circuit breaker will naturally produce more heat. Current Limit: A circuit breaker automatically shuts off when a current passes through that exceeds its capacity; however, sometimes the units will overheat without initiating an emergency shut-off (or trip). Bad Breaker: If your hot circuit breaker is partnered with flickering lights and unreliable circuit power, you likely have a bad unit.