How to choose the right type of circuit breaker

Choosing the correct circuit breaker is essential, as it is an integral  part of the electrical safety system. Here are some things you should know about circuit breakers and circuit breaker boxes.

Choosing a circuit breaker box is easy once you know the amperage rating of your location. You should also consider  the circuit breakers you will need. If most of your electrical needs are for large appliances, you will need a breaker box holding several two-pole circuit breakers.

Circuit breaker ratings

The first thing you should focus on is the capacity of the circuit breaker you need. There are three standard ratings.

• Low voltage: Low voltage circuit breakers are generally suitable for small locations and have a current rating of about 1,000 amperes. 
• Medium voltage: Medium voltage circuit breakers are suitable for buildings and larger locations. They have a capacity of 72,000 volts.
• High voltage: High voltage circuit breakers are typically used by businesses. They are found around power lines and can withstand more than 72,000 volts. 

You will most likely need a lower voltage circuit breaker from our circuit breaker collection.

Circuit breaker types

There are a few circuit breaker types that you should be aware of:

• Single-pole circuit breakers can accommodate between 15 and 30 amperes. They are typically the type of circuit breaker used for small appliances and outlets. The single switch and the single live wire can identify them.
  
  
• Bipolar circuit breakers can withstand up to 200 amperes. They are for large appliances, such as refrigerators. You can recognize them by the two interconnected switches.
  
  
• CFCI circuit breakers are designed to protect against a ground fault. A ground fault occurs when current passes between the ground and power lines. This situation is hazardous, and CFCI circuit breakers protect against ground faults and overload currents. An excellent example of this type of circuit breaker is the Square D. Homeline 50 amp CFCI circuit breaker.

• AFCI circuit breakers can interrupt an arc flash. This stops an unintentional electrical discharge, usually from a power line or something in the wiring. 

The circuit breaker you choose depends on your electrical device type.

Circuit breaker sizes

When considering circuit breaker sizes, you will need to look at the wiring going to the circuit breaker. 

• 14 gauge uses a 15 amp circuit breaker.
• 12 gauge uses a 20 amp circuit breaker.
• 10 gauge uses a 30 amp circuit breaker.
• 8 gauge uses a 40 amp circuit breaker.

The wire gauge determines the amperage you will need. If you are replacing a circuit breaker, you must  look at the type of breaker you are removing and check it against the wire gauge.

When to change a circuit breaker?

It is also essential to know when to replace a circuit breaker. You can look for some signs to see if you need to replace them. For example, if there is a smell of burning, molten plastic, or hot metal nearby or when the circuit breaker or enclosure is rusted. This indicates contact with water, which can lead to a very dangerous situation.

You should check circuit breakers for damage or signs of wear at least once a year. If you notice any of these characteristics, replace the circuit breaker immediately, especially if it is frequently subjected to a heavy load. Remember to take the following safety precautions when replacing the circuit breaker. 

Get the Best Electrical Solutions for Your Home or Business

At Max Warehouse, we understand the importance of having a reliable and safe electrical system. That's why we offer a wide selection of circuit breaker boxes, switches, and fuses to meet your specific needs.

Whether you're looking to upgrade your existing system or replace a faulty component, our team of experts is here to help. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we can guide you through selecting the right products for your unique situation.

If you have special volume pricing needs, don't hesitate to contact our account managers. They are dedicated to working with you to find the best pricing options for your business.

So, if you're facing electrical issues in your home or business, don't hesitate to contact us. We're dedicated to providing high-quality electrical solutions and exceptional customer service. Visit us today to see how we can help you with all your electrical needs.