Understanding Circuit Breakers: What Homeowners Need To Know

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Understanding Circuit Breakers: What Homeowners Need To Know

Preventing potential electrical hazards is one of the major concerns in Australian households. According to the latest statistics, electrical faults are the leading causes of house fires across the nation. In NSW, electrical appliances and faults cause around 40% of home fires—that sounds perilous. However, with awareness and the right measures, you can keep your house protected.

Circuit breakers are one of those key components that safeguard your home from short circuits and other life-threatening electrical hazards. Whether living in the hotspots of Sydney or an exterior suburb of Melbourne, every homeowner should understand the key mechanism, faulty circuit breakers and types of this electrical component. Safety should be your top priority, so we bring you a comprehensive guide on circuit breakers. In case of any emergency, call the best electricians in Australia to prevent injuries and accidents.

1. What are Circuit Breakers?

A circuit breaker is an automatic switch in the electrical system. It can protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overload or short circuits. Circuit breaker acts as a shielding element that can interrupt the electrical flow in the circuit, preventing electrical hazards.

The breaker cuts off the electrical supply/flow in the rear of a fault detection. Unlike a normal fuse, which needs to be replaced when overloaded, a circuit breaker can be reset automatically or manually after tripping, ensuring sustainable circuit protection.

2. How Do Circuit Breakers Work?

A circuit breaker has an automatic switch and a magnetic/thermal mechanism. The breaker has a rate of capacity for current flow (measured in amps). When the current passing through it and exceeds that amount, it causes the thermal mechanism to trigger. This automatically opens the circuit and stops the flow of electricity when a fault is detected due to overload or a short circuit. In simple words,  it can prevent damage to electrical appliances and wiring while reducing the risk of fire hazards. Tripping indicates that any excess current is halted before it can cause harm.

3. What are the Types of Circuit Breakers?

You can find different types of circuit breakers to protect your home from electrical hazards. These are:

Standard Circuit Breakers:

These are commonly found in Australian homes and can protect against short circuits and overloads. They instantly trip when the current surpasses its safe level. Standard circuit breakers are available in different amp ratings for specific household requirements.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFIs):

These can protect you against electrical shocks in bathrooms, kitchens and areas where water is used. A GFCI automatically trips when the flow of electricity instantly exceeds or is interrupted.

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs):

It works after detecting the arcing condition. This fault occurs due to a loose connection or damaged wire. AFCIs are commonly installed in living rooms and bedrooms to prevent fires due to arcing.

Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs):

RCCBs can protect your home against ground faults. These can be found with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters or single devices.

Double-Pole  Circuit Breakers:

These are used for high-voltage circuits, especially for appliances like dryers, washing machines and ovens. They can easily handle 240 volts and protect wipes in case of a short circuit.

4. Why Circuit Breakers are Important?

The benefits of circuit breakers are listed below:

  • Prevents Fire Hazards: Breakers are the most essential elements in your home. They can protect against electrical fires as they'll automatically trip in case of any fault that might cause fires.
  • Protects From High-Voltage Shock: GFCI and AFCI are the two key types of circuit breakers that can protect you from electrical shocks through appliances and electrical outlets.
  • Appliance Prevention: These can keep your electrical home appliances functional for years as they are less risky from power surges and overloads.

However, it is always good to hire the best electrician in Melbourne in case of electrical faults to ensure utmost safety.

5. Key Signs of A Fault Circuit Breakers

Keep a close eye on circuit breakers in a home setup. A faulty one can lead to serious electrical hazards.

  • Frequent Tripping Issue: Is your circuit breaker frequently tripping? This could indicate a fault, such as a short circuit, overload circuit, or damaged breaker. Replace it as quickly as possible. Try to avoid DIY electrical work to prevent injuries or other serious issue.
  • Lingering Burning Odour: This indicates an underlying condition, such as overheating or internal damage, leading to a fire hazard.
  • Reset Issues: If the reset of your beaker shows issues and immediately trips again, it indicates a serious problem with the electrical panel, such as persistent overload and short circuit.
  • Visible Damage: Do not overlook signs of wear and tear, such as corrosion or scorch marks, on the breaker.

6. How to Maintain Your Circuit Breakers?

These can protect your home from electrical hazards and fire. So, it is good to keep them maintained with the help of the following tips:
  • Regularly test AFCI and GFCI outlets to check the switch when an appliance is plugged in. If your oven or fridge loses power, the reset button automatically pops out, indicating that your breaker is working fine.
  • It is good to schedule regular electrical inspections with licensed electricians in Sydney.
  • Always label your circuit breakers in the home's electrical panel for quick identification.

Wrapping Up

Circuit breakers are among the most significant components that can protect you from electrical shocks, your appliances from damage, and your home from fire hazards. As a responsible home owner, you must ensure that they are in good condition and working efficiently to boost your home's electrical system.

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