Breaker vs Fuse: Troubleshooting and Replacement

Quick answer

If a circuit stops working, first check your breaker box or fuse panel. For breakers, look for a switch in the 'off' position or middle. For fuses, check for a blown fuse. Always turn off the main power before replacing either. Replace with the same type and rating.

Confirm the symptom

• A specific area of your home has lost power.
• Appliances or lights in one area don't work.
• The breaker box or fuse panel has a tripped breaker or blown fuse.
• No GFCI or AFCI breaker has tripped.
• Other circuits in your home are working fine.

Tools and prep

• Safety glasses
• Flashlight
• Voltage tester
• New breaker or fuse (same type and rating)
• Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your panel)
• Turn off the main power at the breaker box
• Ensure the area is dry and well-lit

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Locate the Breaker Box or Fuse Panel
   Do: Find your home's main electrical panel, usually in a basement, garage, or utility closet.
   Observe: Note any obvious signs of damage or overheating.
   Means: You should see a panel with switches (breakers) or fuses.
   Next: Check for a tripped breaker or blown fuse.
2. Identify the Tripped Breaker or Blown Fuse
   Do: For breakers, look for one in the 'off' position or middle. For fuses, check for a broken filament or discolored glass.
   Observe: Note which circuit is affected.
   Means: The tripped breaker or blown fuse corresponds to the affected area.
   Next: Turn off the main power.
3. Turn Off the Main Power
   Do: Flip the main breaker switch to the 'off' position.
   Observe: Ensure all power is off in your home.
   Means: Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
   Next: Replace the breaker or fuse.
4. Replace the Breaker or Fuse
   Do: For breakers, pull out the tripped breaker and replace it with a new one of the same type and rating. For fuses, unscrew the blown fuse and replace it with a new one of the same type and rating.
   Observe: Ensure the new breaker or fuse is securely in place.
   Means: The breaker should click into place, and the fuse should screw in tightly.
   Next: Turn on the main power.
5. Turn On the Main Power
   Do: Flip the main breaker switch to the 'on' position.
   Observe: Check if power is restored to the affected area.
   Means: If the breaker trips again or the fuse blows, there may be an underlying issue.
   Next: If power is restored, monitor the circuit.
6. Monitor the Circuit
   Do: Use the affected appliances or lights normally.
   Observe: Check if the breaker trips or fuse blows again.
   Means: If it happens again, there may be a short circuit or other electrical issue.
   Next: If the issue persists, consider calling a professional.

Common causes

Parts matching

When replacing a breaker or fuse, ensure you get the exact match for your panel. Check the panel's label or consult a professional if unsure.

• Same amperage rating (e.g., 15A, 20A)
• Same voltage rating (e.g., 120V, 240V)
• Same type (e.g., single-pole, double-pole)
• Same brand or compatible with your panel
• For fuses, same type (e.g., Edison base, plug fuse)

Always replace with the same type and rating. Never use a higher amperage rating as it can cause a fire hazard.

When to call a professional

• The breaker trips or fuse blows immediately after replacement.
• You're unsure about the cause of the issue.
• You're uncomfortable working with electricity.
• The panel is old or shows signs of damage.
• You smell burning or see sparks.
• The issue affects multiple circuits or the main power.

FAQ

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