Electric circuit breakers protect life and property
Most people have heard of electric circuit breakers and even have some basic knowledge of how they work, but many professionals do not realize that there are many different types of electrical circuit breakers and they are not all the same.
Electric Circuit Breakers are Reusable, Can be Re-Set
In very general terms, electrical breakers are protection devices. They provide the same types of functions that fuses do, but there are major differences between fuses and electric circuit breakers. One major difference is that while blown fuses are thrown away and replaced with new ones, electrical circuit breakers are simply reset as long as they are still functional. In other words, unlike fuses, electrical circuit breakers are reusable.
Electric Breakers Used as Control Devices
Another use for electric breakers is that they can be used as control devices. By manually opening and closing the contacts of electric circuit breakers, you can switch the power on and off, thus making the device come on, or go off.
Replace Electric Breakers with Same Type, Same Brand
Electric breakers are available in a huge variety of sizes and types. However, it is very important to understand that you simply cannot replace electric breakers without first knowing exactly what type you have to replace, as well as which brand. In simple terms, you always want to replace the electrical circuit breakers with the exact same type that you take out.
Turn Off the Power Before Checking Electric Circuit Breakers
You can often learn the exact type and specifications by reading the information that is contained within the panel. This task should be done carefully as it is possible for power to be present in the panel itself and certainly within the panel. Whenever you are checking electric breakers, please make sure you turn off the power before you touch any electrical circuit breakers.
Consult a Pro of Electrical SwitchGear & Circuit Breakers
If you are not confident handling electric breakers, ask for assistance from a professional. Electric circuit breakers can be dangerous and even deadly if they are not handled properly, and if the proper safety precautions are not followed. Never work with electrical circuit breakers with the power on.
Air Circuit Breakers, Vacuum Circuit Breakers
In addition to the usual types of electric circuit breakers that most people are familiar with, there are also air electrical circuit breakers as well as vacuum electric breakers. Knowing which electric circuit breakers you need is your first step, and that, too, can be found on the panel information.
If you are not sure of what type of electric breakers you have, it is a very good idea to have a professional take a look for you. You will need to know the type of electric circuit breakers you have when you go to buy new ones.