{"id":9639,"date":"2022-06-27T09:30:46","date_gmt":"2022-06-27T14:30:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/?p=9639"},"modified":"2024-05-01T09:57:41","modified_gmt":"2024-05-01T13:57:41","slug":"about-your-homes-circuit-breaker","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/?p=9639","title":{"rendered":"All About Your Home&#8217;s Circuit Breaker Panel"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A circuit breaker box panel is a box that holds all of your home&#8217;s electrical breaker switches.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> You know, that magical plot device that heroes in movies need to get to escape trouble or break into an impenetrable fortress?&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Samuel L. Jackson&#8217;s famous &#8220;Hold onto your Butts&#8221; line in Jurassic Park to cutting power in Vegas in Ocean&#8217;s Eleven, it seems the circuit breaker panel is an all-powerful tool to fix whatever problem you have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><iframe class=\"giphy-embed\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/OCu7zWojqFA1W\" width=\"480\" height=\"263\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In terms of everyday home life, that idea holds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Like how turning your phone off and on fixes a bug, flipping a switch in a circuit breaker panel can fix an electrical problem in your home. But there&#8217;s much more to them than that.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Here at Mister Sparky Electrician Houston, we&#8217;ve found answers to some of your most pressing questions about circuit breakers.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Are circuit breaker brands interchangeable?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Some brands are interchangeable, but most aren&#8217;t. So you have to be careful in this regard. Using parts from different brands that aren&#8217;t compatible can cause <a href=\"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/electrical-help\/mister-sparkys-national-fire-safety-month-tips\/\">electrical fires<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Some things you should look at when pairing parts from different brands are:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Load Capacity:<\/strong> Always stick with the same size or parts that fit one another regardless of brand.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Model Number:<\/strong> If your replacement part has a matching model number, it is likely compatible.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Brand:<\/strong> Your box might even list which brands are compatible. However, the older the box, the fewer brands it will be compatible with.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When in doubt, talk to a pro. You don&#8217;t want to be wrong about this one.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/All-About-Your-Homes-Circuit-Breaker-Panel-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/All-About-Your-Homes-Circuit-Breaker-Panel-1.jpg\" alt=\"All About Your Home's Circuit Breaker Panel\" class=\"wp-image-9640\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How do circuit breakers work?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> A circuit breaker cuts off the flow of electricity when it exceeds a limit. This is where rating becomes essential. The rating of a circuit is based on how much electricity it can safely carry and how much electricity it can safely stop.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Typically, each switcher on a panel will represent a room in your home. You&#8217;ll have a living room switch, a master bedroom switch, a kitchen switch, and so on.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Turning off that switch manually, or if it triggers on its own, will cut power to the entire room. A circuit will cut all power in that room from lights to outlets.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What circuit breaker do I need?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Breakers are made for handling different capabilities for different house parts.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Standard Circuit Breakers<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> These breakers come in two kinds: single-pole or double-pole.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><h4><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Single-Pole<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The most common type of circuit breaker in houses<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Supplies 120V<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Handles up to 30 amps<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><h4><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Double-Pole<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Made up of two single-pole breaker<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Supplies 240V<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Can handle up to 200 amps<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Meant for large appliances, like washing machines or water heaters<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/GFCI-Circuit-Breakers-1.jpg\" alt=\"All About Your Home's Circuit Breaker Panel\" class=\"wp-image-9641\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GFCI Circuit Breakers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/electrical-help\/do-gfci-outlets-go-bad\/\"> Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters<\/a> cut power to the entire circuit. They are usually required in locations like hallways, bedrooms, and kitchens.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AFCI Circuit Breakers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> These breakers prevent fires from unintentional electrical discharge. Once this breaker detects an electrical burst, it cuts power to the damaged circuit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Old cords are susceptible to arc fires. Standard circuit breakers are designed to respond to constant heat from a hot wire, not a sudden burst.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> New homes in the United States must have AFCI circuit breakers instead of standard ones.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CAFCI Circuit breakers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters protect against sudden short circuit surges like AFCI circuit breakers and constant heat levels like a standard circuit breaker.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> These are growing in popularity because of their dual functionality.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Why do circuit breakers trip?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Electrical overload is the most common reason for a circuit breaker to trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> This happens when too much electrical load is on a specific circuit. It can also happen when you have too many energy users on at once, like appliances, devices, and lights.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Can a circuit breaker go bad?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Yes! A circuit breaker can go wrong in several ways.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Electrical Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> A solid surge or many small electrical surges can damage a circuit breaker or wiring. They are designed to withstand these but aren&#8217;t entirely waterproof.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Old Age<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> After a long enough time, a circuit breaker&#8217;s parts may no longer be functional. In addition, plastic can wear down due to extreme heat or cold, and metal may corrode.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Physical Causes<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> A circuit breaker is not invincible against physical damage. For example, an errant baseball or a fallen tree limb can damage a circuit breaker and render it ineffective.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What happens when a circuit breaker goes bad?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Horrible things.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> A faulty circuit breaker that doesn&#8217;t cut off power when an electrical surge can lead to electrical fires and the risk of electric shock.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> This is why it is smart to have a fire extinguisher on hand. You never want to put water on an electrical fire for the same reasons you wouldn&#8217;t for a grease fire.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What is the cost of a circuit breaker?&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> GFCIs and AFCIs can cost <strong>$30<\/strong> to <strong>$100<\/strong> a breaker. A standard breaker costs around <strong>$10 <\/strong>retail.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> An entire box can run you around <strong>$1,100.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What is the life expectancy of a circuit breaker?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> The industry standard for the life expectancy of a circuit breaker is around thirty years.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> This, of course, is partially dependent on a favorable environment and regular maintenance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How to locate my circuit breaker?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> The location can be different for every home, but a circuit panel is usually somewhere in or around a home that doesn&#8217;t get passed by very often.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Areas like your garage, the backside of your house, a basement, or a utility closet might contain your circuit panel.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> In an apartment, a circuit panel is likely in a central location, like the main hallway or laundry room.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How to replace a circuit breaker?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> A person with the right tools from a local store and electrical work knowledge could replace a circuit breaker alone.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> But if you&#8217;re replacing a breaker, you are already in great danger if an electrical surge occurs. And if you do something wrong while replacing, you could make things worse for yourself, your family, and your home.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Please don&#8217;t risk it. Instead, hire a professional electrician with the tools and expertise to diagnose solutions and replace them correctly.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">In conclusion<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> A circuit breaker is an essential component of a home. It keeps you, your family, and your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homestructions.com\/electric\/circuit-breakers-home-safety-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">home safe from electrical hazards<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> If you have an older home, take some time this summer while making home improvements to see if your circuit breakers are nearing their expiration date or are damaged. Of course, you might also have all standard circuit breakers, but we now know there are better ones for different places.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Call Mister Sparky Houston today if you&#8217;re interested in replacing a circuit breaker or want a professional to assess your circuit breaker&#8217;s situation. We&#8217;ll send a licensed electrician to your home in no time and get you the help you need.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/\">Mister Sparky Electrician Houston<\/span><\/a>, America\u2019s On-Time Electrician, serves Houston, Texas and the cities of Katy, Sugar Land, Cypress, Spring, The Woodlands and others with a team of certified electricians. In addition to emergency electrical repairs, some of the electrician services provided by the company include electrical outlet\/switch repair, ceiling fan installation, lighting installation, wiring repair, landscape lighting installation and home electrical inspections. Call us today at:&nbsp;<\/span><a href=\"tel:2819078418\"><a href=tel:+12819078418>281-907-8418<\/a><\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A circuit breaker box panel is a box that holds all of your home&#8217;s electrical breaker switches.&nbsp; You know, that magical plot device that heroes in movies need to get to escape trouble or break into an impenetrable fortress?&nbsp; From Samuel L. Jackson&#8217;s famous &#8220;Hold onto your Butts&#8221; line in Jurassic Park to cutting power&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":9642,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[286],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9639","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-electrical-help"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9639","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/16"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=9639"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9639\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=9639"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=9639"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mistersparky-houston.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=9639"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}