By Mark J. Donovan
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An electrical circuit breaker
plays an important role in your home. It is a safety mechanism for
preventing too much current from flowing through an electrical circuit.
Circuit breakers reside in main circuit breaker panels within your home.
Main circuit breaker panels are usually found in basements, garages or
utility rooms.
How a Circuit Breaker Works
When more current flows through a
wire than what it is rated for it heats up. The wire can get so hot that it
actually can cause a fire.
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occurring, by shutting off the power to the circuit when too much current
begins to flow through the circuit. The advantage of a circuit
breaker over its predecessor, the fuse, is that it can be reset after it has
been shut off (or tripped).
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To understand circuit breakers you
first need to understand what a circuit is. A circuit is a loop that contains
various loads and switches on it, such as lighting, stereo equipment,
refrigerators, stoves, etc. These loads are connected into the circuit via
electrical outlets and are controlled by switches in some cases.
When a circuit is tripped, it is
important to figure out what caused it to trip. Usually it is associated
with too many loads being turned on simultaneously, such as multiple power
tools, or even hair dryers operating simultaneously. Sometimes, however it
can be a faulty appliance.
| Once you have figured out the
cause and eliminated it from the circuit, for example unplugging some of the
loads, or the faulty load from the wall outlet, you can then reset the
circuit breaker to restore power to the circuit. There are also ground fault
circuit interrupter type circuit breakers (GFCI circuit breakers) for use in
bathrooms, kitchens, garages and other areas where there might be water or
high moisture levels. They are designed to trip under the slightest rapid
current change to prevent serious or life threatening shock. |
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Circuit Breakers come in a
variety of current ratings and styles. It is important to use the right
circuit breaker with the type of wiring in the circuit. For example, a 15
Amp rated circuit breaker should be used with a 14-2/3 type Romex wire
cable. A 20 Amp rated circuit breaker should be used with 12-2/3 type Romex
wire cable.
Finally, it is import to select
the right type of circuit breaker for the type of main circuit breaker panel
in your home. So take a look at your circuit panel prior to running to the
home improvement store.
Warning: When working with electricity use extreme
caution to avoid the risk of electrical shock. Make sure to first shut off
power at the main circuit panel and then confirm all
power to the electrical fixtures and boxes are off prior to beginning any
electrical work.
How to Finance your Home Electrical Project -
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if financing is
required.
Additional Home Electrical Wiring Resources
for Wiring Ceiling Fans
Circuit Breakers from Amazon.com
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