What are they and why would you need to replace a circuit breaker? Circuit breakers cut off a power circuit when it jumps to an unsafe electrical level avoiding overheating or melting, which both lead to potential fires. Breakers play an extensive role in the safety of your home. It is essential to recognize the signs of when to replace it. The risks of a poorly operating circuit breaker are potential electric shock, house fires, or blackouts. Circuit breakers can last up to 35 years, give or take. Let’s dive into five warning signs for replacing your circuit breaker.

1. Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

The number one sign you need to replace the circuit breaker is when you’re not running multiple power sources at once or using a significant power source, and your breaker still trips. If the breaker trips at simply turning on power to a light or electrical source, then your breaker needs to be replaced, or you can call a licensed electrician to see if you need a circuit breaker repair.

2. The Breaker Has Insufficient Capacity

The second warning sign is that you will need a new breaker panel if you’re updating appliances or other things that require a higher electrical load, such as expanding your living space. The alternative can result in unwanted damage. It often requires a brand-new circuit breaker installation to prevent faulty outages. It is crucial your circuit breaker is inspected by a licensed professional to ensure your breaker panel can handle the required electrical capacity.

3. Your Circuit Breaker is Overheating

Not having the correct circuit breaker capacity will eventually lead to overheating. If you notice your circuit breaker feels hot or is emitting a burning smell, there is a direct indication that your circuit panel is distressed. The odor is often caused when wires and insulation overheat, thus leading to the circuit breaker not doing its intended job. This typically will result in circuit breaker replacement or breaker update. In addition to smelling a burning odor, the electrical panel breaker and box may be extremely hot to the touch. If this is the case, you must shut down the main power supply immediately and call a professional electrician as soon as possible to address the problem.

4. Aged or Damaged Circuit Breaker

The fourth sign a circuit breaker needs to be updated or replaced is if your breaker is old or damaged. If your circuit breaker is old, you will notice signs of flickering lights or small shocks to your fingers when you turn on the lights. This is an indication of aged or damaged wiring. Getting your circuit breaker serviced every 10 to 15 years is a good idea to ensure maximum safety.

Call a professional immediately to avoid electrical fires if you notice marks around your breaker panel or outlet that appear scorched or charred or any other indicators, such as smoke or melted wiring.

Finally, the fifth sign you will want to update your circuit breaker is simply because of the new technology. Older circuit breakers need the advanced features the new ones offer. New breakers have GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) and AFCIs (arc fault interrupters). These safety components protect against electrical shocks and additional fire hazards.

5. Outdated Technology

A licensed electrician should always perform electrical work. Piper Electric is full of skilled and qualified electricians with top-of-the-line customer service! If you or someone you know is experiencing the above issues, we can help you with circuit breaker replacement or repairs.

Contact us today to see if you need a new circuit breaker, or if you want peace of mind knowing your electrical is up to safety standards