Circuit breakers or fuse boxes are the heart of your home’s electrical system. As we introduce more appliances and devices into our homes, the electrical panel (circuit breaker or fuse) has to handle these amperage needs.
A circuit breaker is an automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by excess current from an overload or short circuit. Its basic function is to interrupt current flow after a fault is detected.
Test circuit breaker and fuses
Plugin one or two electrical appliances and turn them on to test your new fuse or the reset breaker. If the outlet loses power again, it’s possible that you are using too many amps. As a test, move some of the appliances to a different fuse or breaker. If the problem continues, it may be a sign of a more serious electrical problem.
Circuit breaker or fuse overload
Electrical circuit overloads happen when more amperage is transferred across an electrical wire than the circuit can handle. Circuit breakers detect and stop excess current in its tracks.
For example, if you plug a laser printer into the same outlet as your computer tower, and the circuit doesn’t have enough amps to support both, the circuit breaker will be tripped and cut power to all devices using that circuit.
If a circuit breaker constantly trips, it is very important to understand why. The breaker could be faulty, or you may have a damaged/malfunctioning appliance plugged in.
Another problem and reason to check the circuit panel is for possible overload. If you see signs of fire, or melted wiring or smell burning you know these are additional signs of trouble. Cut off the main circuit breaker and call us to investigate the problem and upgrade your panel.
Fuse box: If your electrical panel has fuses, check each fuse to see if the piece of metal inside has melted. Check if the glass window at the top of the fuse has become discolored (usually purple or brown). That’s your broken fuse.
Unscrew the broken fuse and replace it with a new fuse that is the exact same size, type, and amperage of the broken fuse.
*Tip: The best way to ensure a perfect match is to take your broken fuse to the hardware store and compare before you buy.
Test circuit breaker and fuse
Plugin one or two electrical appliances and turn them on to test your new fuse or the reset breaker. If the outlet loses power again, it’s possible that you are using too many amps. As a test, move some of the appliances to a different fuse or breaker. If the problem continues, it may be a sign of a more serious electrical problem.
Klotz Electric, LLC can check how much power is being used and install a panel that meets regulations and your family’s electricity needs.
Remember, you don’t want to put your family’s safety or your home in jeopardy. Contact us! The professional electricians who service Wenatchee and its surrounding communities today.