Are reconditioned breakers ok to purchase?

Yes. In fact, PCB Certified reconditioned circuit breakers are tested to a more stringent standard than most new circuit breakers. PCB tests every single reconditioned breaker to 300% of its maximum rating to ensure proper functionality. PCB also measures insulation resistance, contact resistance and more. Click here to view our entire testing procedure.

Can I reset my circuit breaker?

Yes, typically, depending on the nature of the problem. To reset a circuit breaker, return the handle to the extreme “off” position. If it resets correctly you should hear a “click” as the tripping mechanism re-latches. Return the handle to the “on” position to re-energize the circuit. If the breaker continues to nuisance trip you should replace and/or contact a qualified electrician. If it trips immediately you should contact a qualified electrician to diagnose the problem and keep the circuit shut off. PCB recommends that only qualified electricians work with electricity or electrical devices.

How can I replace my circuit breaker?

Because of the different styles of breakers and panels available, there isn’t an easy answer. Although most residential circuit breakers are uncomplicated to replace, the fact that you are dealing with electricity suggests that you should call a licensed professional. PCB always recommends that you contact a qualified electrician to install circuit breakers.

How do I determine the amperage of a circuit breaker?

The amperage is typically imprinted on the switch handle of the breaker. For larger frame breakers, the amperage may be printed on the trip unit or the identification label of the breaker.

How do I determine the number of poles?

Poles are the number of legs the breaker uses to attach to the panel. Typical breakers come in one, two and three pole configurations. 1 and 2 pole breakers are most common for residential applications. 3 pole breakers are more common in commercial and industrial applications.

How do I find the circuit breaker I need?

Locate the label on the inside cover door of the panel. Note the manufacturer, brand name and catalog number if possible. This will help to identify the type of the circuit breaker you need. Determine the amperage requirement of the circuit you’re replacing or adding and verify the panel voltage. Also, determine the number of poles needed and specify any high AIC requirements, as necessary.

NOTE: Make sure ALL safety precautions have been followed before opening any electrical panel. Shut off all power sources and verify no power exists. PCB recommends only that qualified electricians work with electricity or electrical devices.

How does an electrical shock occur?

Electricity seeks the easiest path to the ground, trying to find a conductor, such as metal, wet wood, or water. Humans are conductors, since 70% of the body is water. So, if a person touches an energized bare wire or faulty equipment while grounded, electricity will instantly pass through the body to the ground, causing a harmful, potentially fatal, shock.

What is a Circuit Breaker? How does it work?

Circuit breakers are essential protection devices in today’s modern electrical world, and one of the most important safety mechanisms in your home. Without them, household electricity would be impractical because of the potential for fires and damage resulting from simple wiring problems and equipment failures. Simply speaking, a circuit breaker is a mechanical device designed to monitor electrical current within a conductor (wire) for potentially dangerous overloads or short circuits. Circuit breakers work by monitoring the electrical voltage, current and resistance within the circuit and cutting off power to the circuit when current levels get too high, fluctuate unexpectedly or short circuit…averting potential deadly problems!

Click here for a detailed look inside a typical branch circuit breaker.

What is a defective circuit breaker?
When the circuit breaker will not “reset” after the handle has been switched on/off a few times, you can consider it defective and will need to be replaced.

What is a GFCI and how does it work? How does it differ from a GFI?

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is an electronic device for protecting people from serious injury due to electric shock. GFCIs constantly monitor electricity flowing in a circuit. If the electricity flowing into the circuit differs by even a slight amount from that returning, the GFCI will quickly shut off the current flowing through that circuit. The advantage of using GFCIs is that they can detect even small variations in the amount of leakage current, even amounts too small to activate a fuse or circuit breaker. GFCIs work quickly to protect people from severe electric shocks and electrocution.

In contrast, a GFI only is ground fault protection for equipment to protect from damaging line to fault currents by disconnecting all ungrounded conductors of the faulted circuit. GFI Ground-fault protection is intended to protect just the equipment itself because it is sensitive to leakage currents above 30 mA. These protection devices are intended to substantially reduce the risk of a fire by a low-level electrical arc.

What is a Main Breaker Panel? How does it work?

A main breaker panel is typically mounted on a wall of a home (indoor or outdoor) and connected directly to the incoming electrical utility lines thru a metering system.  Incoming electricity is distributed at the main electrical panel to lights, outlets, and appliances throughout the house via circuits thru a main circuit breaker and individual branch circuit breakers. The type of panel can typically be identified with a nametag ID sticker located on the inside door cover of the panel. The main breaker and individual branch circuit breakers are designed to protect circuits and wiring by shutting off (tripping) the power to the circuit(s) in the event of a dangerous electrical overload or short circuit.

Click here for a typical residential main breaker panel diagram.