How To

How to Change a Fuse in the Home

Contributor
By Dave Donovan
eHow Contributing Writer
(13 Ratings)
Change a Fuse in the Home
Change a Fuse in the Home

Before the popularity of circuit breakers, fuses were the most common means of circuit protection in American homes. Fuses are round, screw-in type circuit protectors which are usually made from porcelain, glass and metal.

The fuse usually has a glass "window" which you can see through to check if it has been blown or not. If your home is still powered by a panel box full of fuses, then here is how to change a fuse in the event that one blows.

From Quick Guide: Electrical Quick Guide
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Flashlight
  • Replacement Fuses
  1. Step 1

    If you are ever in a situation where the lights go out or an appliance stops working, don't get upset. It may be that the only thing wrong is that a fuse is blown in your panel box. If you were using an appliance when the power went out, unplug it.

  2. Step 2

    Grab your trusty flashlight and head to wherever your electric panel is located. Open up the door on your panel box.

  3. Step 3

    If your electric panel box is not labeled properly, then you will have to search for the blown fuse. Use the flashlight to help you see inside the glass windows of the fuses. You will recognize it because it will look scorched or cloudy inside. You may even notice the metal bar behind the glass is broken.

    Be careful here, because while the fuse is blown, the rest of the panel is still energized.

  4. Step 4

    Unscrew the blown fuse in a counter-clockwise direction and remove it.

  5. Step 5

    Replace the fuse with one of an identical amperage. This is important. Do NOT replace it with a fuse made for higher-rated amperage, as this would be a potential fire hazard. Screw the new fuse in clockwise until snug. Do not over-tighten.

  6. Step 6

    Throw the bad fuse away, close the panel cover door and return to what you were doing.

  7. Step 7

    If the circuit blows again, then it is important to call a licensed electrician to check the circuit for problems. Remember, if a fuse is blown, then it is doing its job. Do not look at as an inconvenience. Have an electrician check for any problems that could be potentially disastrous down the road.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use caution when working on or around your electrical panel
  • Never work on the electric if any part of your body is wet
  • Replace a blown fuse only once, then call an electrician

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