Circuit Breaker Replacement

For any household electrical safety, a circuit breaker plays an important role by protecting the fixtures from damages caused due to overloading or short circuiting. Circuit breakers are also commonly referred to as fuses. In case of high current levels in any of the electrical wiring, the circuit breaker immediately cuts off the electric flow, so as to prevent further damages to the systems. The normal power supply can be restored after fixation of the problem. Let's take a look at the instructions for circuit breaker replacement.

Instructions for Circuit Breaker Replacement

While discussing the circuit breaker fuse replacement, the first step is to diagnose the problem. By doing so, you can determine whether the circuit breaker really needs replacement or not. Many people opt for circuit breaker replacement prior to examining it carefully, stating that it trips off very often. In such a case, it may not be the circuit breaker that is creating the problem, the main defect can be in the electricity supply. This article focuses on examining and replacing a circuit breaker that is installed correctly.

Diagnosing Circuit Breaker Defect

In order to diagnose circuit breaker malfunction, turn off the main power supply, unplug the home appliances connected to the circuit breaker and also, switch off the lights. Check whether the circuit breaker works after disconnecting the devices. In case the circuit breaker resets, turn on the lights and connect the appliances one-by-one. This way, you can determine the actual malfunctioning. If such is not the case, press the rest button and try switching the circuit breaker on and off alternately. The circuit breaker is of inferior quality or loosely connected, if it trips suddenly.

Replacing Circuit Breaker

After examining the defects of the circuit breaker, you can proceed with the replacement steps. For replacing a circuit breaker, purchase a superior quality model from the local hardware store. Remove the panel cover by loosening the screws fastened to it. Note the wires and their colors before you start connecting them. Also, make sure you remember the wires that are connected on the sides of the breaker.

The next step is dealing with the wires, including the white and the colored ones. To prevent confusion or faulty connections, handle one wire at a time. You can start with the white wire first; unscrew the nut that holds the white wire and fasten a wire nut at the tip. Continue the same procedure for the other colored wires. Once you are done with preparation of the wires, remove the old circuit breaker by pulling it gently.

Position the new circuit breaker panel in place of the old one. Make the wire connections in the same way as that of the previous ones with reference to the colors. Tighten the necessary nuts and screws to secure the wires properly. Remount the panel cover by securing the nuts. This is how circuit breaker replacement is done.

Switch on the circuit breaker to check whether the circuit breaker is functioning or not. You can turn on the lights to ensure them working. Follow these instructions for any type of circuit breakers replacement. Nevertheless, if there is no light after switching them on, then you need to call a professional electrician.