How to Replace a Blown Home Circuit Breaker

Circuit breakers serve a major function in your house. When there is an overload of a circuit, the breaker trips (or turns off). If it did not, there could be an electrical fire. It is important to know the difference between a tripped breaker and a blown breaker. If the circuit is tripped, you will be able to reset it. If it is blown, the breaker cannot be reset. Be sure to always replace the circuit with the correct amp circuit breaker as well as one that will be compatible with your circuit box.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver

1. Go to the circuit board and find the bad circuit breaker. It most likely will be in between the off and on position.

2. Turn off the main circuit breaker, which should be located at the top of the box.

3. 

   Take off the panel cover by removing the screws.

4. Double-check to make sure the main circuit is off. Remove the wire(s) attached to the blown circuit breaker. If there is more than one wire, be sure to leave them in the proper side.

5. Remove the blown circuit breaker by gently prying up the bottom side of the circuit that is opposite the screw that holds the wire. The other side is just hooked in.

6. Insert the new circuit breaker by first hooking the one side and then pushing down on the other side. You will feel the circuit breaker snap into the terminals on the board.

7. Replace the wire(s) by putting them on the proper screws and tightening.

8. Put the panel cover back on and tighten the screws.

9. Turn on the main circuit breaker and then the new breaker.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you purchase the correct circuit for your box.
• When dealing with high voltage always turn off the main power. If you are unsure about working with electricity, have a professional do it.

Resources

• Circuit Breaker