Circuit Breakers and Fuses
Circuit breakers and fuses are vital to the smooth and safe operation of your home’s electrical system. Though fuses are a slightly older type of system, they both serve the same function: they either blow or trip when a circuit receives too much power.
Most modern homes are equipped with breakers – a simple flip-switch system. When a breaker trips, it’s easy enough to flip the switch to restore power to the circuit. Many homeowners prefer fuse breakers for that reason.
Frustrated with your circuit breakers?
It can be frustrating when your breakers trip constantly. In this one case, you can do a little DIY troubleshooting at home. Evaluate how many lights and appliances you were running at the time of the trip. If you were running all the lights, the AC, the TV, the microwave, a hairdryer and four computers, a trip isn’t too unusual. Turn off a few items, flip the breakers or replace the fuse, and try again.
Some homeowners try to address the problem by using larger circuit breakers. That’s dangerous because it circumvents the breaker’s ability to protect you from electric shocks or overloads. It’s also dangerous because excessive tripping is often a sign of a much deeper electrical problem. Any electrical issue could create a fire hazard, so it’s important to address this issue promptly.
Don’t take chances with bothersome breakers. Call Premo Electric for a free estimate. We’ll troubleshoot your breakers or fuses for you and help you determine the most cost-effective, safety-conscious way to get the job done.
Is it Time to Upgrade?
Fuse boxes are not unsafe. You don’t have to get an upgrade if all the components are working correctly. In fact, fuses react to circuit overloads a little more quickly than breakers do. Yet breakers are the more modern option, and safety is not the only reason you might want to consider swapping out your fuse box.
Upgrades are a common request here in San Diego simply because more local insurance companies have insisted on the change-out. Some insurance companies won’t cover the home because they see fuse boxes as a sign the electrical system is older and less reliable. Some will also increase your insurance premiums if you choose not to make the switch.
If you do decide to keep your fuse box, be sure to keep some replacement fuses handy before you need them. Once a fuse is blown it’s done for. Some homeowners make the switch simply because they grow tired of the inconvenience of replacing blown fuses. Doing so is more affordable than you think. Give Premo Electir a call for your free estimate today, and see why we’re San Diego’s top-reviewed electricians.
