If your circuit breaker has gone bad, you may notice the following symptoms:
The electrical panel emits a burning odor.
The circuit breaker is quite hot to the touch.
There are burnt components, frayed wires and clear indications of wear.
The breaker doesn't remain in "Reset" mode.
In order to remedy the issue 1) Determine the breaker and the devices it protects. 2) Unplug all appliances and devices connected to that breaker. 3) Reset the circuit breaker. You may accomplish this by firmly pressing the breaker into the ON position. Then, to discover the problem, watch how the circuit breaker performs next. If the breaker does not trip immediately but does trip when your appliances are plugged back in and turned on, you have one of two problems. Either a short circuit or an electrical overload.