Replacing electrical breakers in your home can be a dangerous job if not done properly. However, with the right precautions and preparations, a homeowner can safely change breakers without hiring an electrician. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need for a secure breaker replacement.
Understanding Electrical Breakers
Before replacing a breaker, you must understand what breakers are and how they work.
Electrical breakers are automatic switches designed to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by overloads or short circuits. They interrupt the flow of power when detecting faults, preventing fires and electrocution hazards.
Breakers are found in the main electrical service panel, which divides and distributes power throughout the home. The service panel contains two main types of breakers:
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Main breaker - This large breaker controls power from the utility line for the whole home. It allows you to shut off all electricity for maintenance.
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Circuit breakers - These breakers protect the individual circuits that branch out to appliances, lights, and outlets. Tripping a circuit breaker indicates a problem on that circuit.
Replacing a faulty circuit breaker with a new one of the same amperage rating restores protection to the circuit.
When to Replace a Breaker
Some signs that indicate a need to replace a circuit breaker include:
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Frequent tripping - A breaker that trips repeatedly under normal loads has become defective. Replacing it is safer than regularly resetting the faulty breaker.
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No trip on overload - If a breaker doesn't trip with a known overload on its circuit, it is not providing protection. The breaker needs replacement.
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Signs of damage - Look for broken, overheated, or corroded breakers. Their reliability is compromised and they should be replaced immediately.
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Upgrading circuit - When adding high-power appliances like air conditioners on a circuit, you may need to upgrade the breaker to a higher amperage rating.
Do not replace breakers randomly. Only change breakers showing signs of defects, with new ones of equal amperage. Random replacements can dangerously mismatch circuit power needs.
Electrical Safety Precautions
Replacing breakers involves exposure to lethal amounts of electricity. Take proper precautions to avoid electrocution hazards:
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Shut off main breaker - Turning off the main breaker disconnects power from the service panel for safety. Verify power is off by testing with a non-contact voltage tester.
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Remove jewelry and wear gloves - Metal jewelry and watches can conduct electricity. Wear insulated rubber gloves for protection.
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Use insulated tools - Only use tools with insulated grips and avoid placing metal tools on the panel while working.
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Work on dry surface - Stand on a dry wooden ladder or rubber mat when working in damp areas. Avoid conducting surfaces.
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One hand rule - While handling circuit wires, keep one hand in your pocket. This prevents electricity passing through your chest if a live wire is touched.
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Label all wires - Properly label wires before disconnecting them when removing the old breaker. Match labels when reconnecting to the new unit.
How to Replace a Breaker
Follow this step-by-step procedure to safely replace a circuit breaker:
Switch Off Power
The first step is to shut off all power to the panel:
- Locate the main breaker switch at the top or side of the service panel.
- Set the main breaker lever to the Off position.
- Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that power is no longer live at the panel.
Remove Old Breaker
With the power off, you can now remove the defective breaker:
- Unscrew and remove the panel cover to access the breakers.
- Locate the faulty breaker among the labelled rows of breakers.
- Carefully unscrew and remove the old breaker's mounting screws.
- Pull the breaker straight out to disconnect it from the bus bar and remove it.
Install New Breaker
Follow these tips for safe installation of the new replacement breaker:
- Select a breaker of equal amperage as the old one. Higher amperage can overload circuits.
- For 240V circuits, ensure the new breaker matches the voltage and number of poles.
- Insert the new breaker firmly into the matching bus bar space until it snaps securely in place.
- Reinstall the mounting screws tightly on both sides of the breaker.
- Double check that the breaker matches the circuit label where the old one was removed.
Restore Power and Test
You can now restore power and test operation of the replaced breaker:
- Replace the panel cover and tighten all screws.
- Set the main breaker back to the On position.
- Turn on electrical devices and appliances on the replaced breaker's circuit to verify normal operation.
- The new breaker should now trip appropriately if overloaded.
- Contact an electrician immediately if the new breaker malfunctions.
Replacing old or damaged breakers with identical units is a straightforward do-it-yourself task. Follow proper safety procedures and you can avoid the expense of an electrician for small circuit breaker repairs. However, always consult a professional for upgrades or complex electrical issues exceeding DIY skills.