How to Replace a Circuit Breaker With a Higher Amp
When electrical loads are increased on a house circuit, the circuit can be split into two or a new one might have to be created to increase the amperage rating of the circuit breaker. When a breaker is replaced with one with a higher amp rating, the wire used to install the circuit would have to be inspected to make sure that it can carry the larger load without failing. If a 20-amp breaker is replaced with a 30-amp breaker, the wire should be at least a 10-2 to handle the increased current demands.
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Move the switch on the main breaker to the "Off" position. Extract the screws that secure the cover on the circuit panel with a screwdriver and lift the cover off of the box. Grip the circuit breaker that is being changed and unplug it from the box by pulling it toward you.
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Loosen the screw on the breaker and pull the black wire out of the circuit breaker. Push the end of the black wire into the new circuit breaker. Tighten the screw to secure the wire to the breaker. Clip the new breaker back into the slot from which you removed the old breaker.
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Lift the cover of the panel into place and reinstall the screws. Turn on the main breaker and the new breaker. The circuit should be back in service.
Warnings
- Always turn the electricity off at the main breaker before working on other breakers inside the box.
Writer Bio
Allen Teal was first published in 2002 in the "Adult Teacher" and "Adult Student" books for the Assemblies of God Sunday School department. He has also been published on various websites. He received an Associate of Arts in business from Mineral Area College in Park Hills, Mo.
Photo Credits
- modern furniture image by terex from Fotolia.com
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