The lifespan of circuit breakers varies, so it’s important to know when circuit breaker replacement is necessary. Numerous standards cover these vital components. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), they should last from 30 to 40 years, but other standards cap it at 30 years. Some modern breakers last only 15 to 20 years due to their complexity. Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) have sensors and delicate electronics that wear out quicker than a standard breaker.
Reasons for Circuit Breaker Wear
Circuit breakers are designed to cut the power when the amount of current flowing through them exceeds a certain threshold. An overload will cause the breaker to trip. A breaker that is more overloaded will trip more frequently, which accelerates wear, warranting the need for electrical repair.
Short-circuiting generates a lot of heat in the system. It’s often caused by loose connections, faulty wiring, or corrosion (a sign electrical components are being exposed to moisture). These are factors that can wear out a circuit breaker. Electrical surges caused by ground fault charges contribute to wear as well. A bad circuit breaker can cause a fire, electrocution, or destroy appliances.
How Do I Know I Need Circuit Breaker Replacement?
No matter its age, a circuit breaker can go bad. That’s why it’s important to recognize you have a bad breaker. You may need to replace one or more of them if you notice the following signs of trouble:
- Frequent Tripping: Internal issues or connection problems can cause the breaker to trip frequently. Even turning the breaker on and off as a temporary solution can wear it out.
- Flickering/Dimming Lights: If multiple lights in your home are affected, odds are the cause is at your breaker panel or near the electric meter, as the load increases.
- Burning Odors: If you smell something burning near the electrical panel, a breaker or circuit wiring is probably overheating, which is also a sign of other fire hazards.
- Buzzing: A buzzing circuit breaker can spark at any time, potentially causing a fire. It should be replaced, and an electrician should check whether other repairs are needed.
- Burnt Spot on the Panel: A burned area or black spot on the panel means you not only need circuit breaker replacement, but also a new electrical panel.
- Discolored Wires: If any wires in the panel look discolored, burnt, or melted, you have a faulty circuit breaker; cut the power supply and contact a licensed electrician right away.
- The Panel Is Hot: This can mean something is seriously wrong, and the entire panel may be damaged or outdated. But warm breakers aren’t always a concern. Standard breakers can operate at 122℉ to 140℉ while AFCI and GFCI breakers can run 15℉ to 20℉ warmer.
- Breaker Won’t Reset: If lights are flickering, you hear buzzing sounds, or there’s a smoky odor and the breaker won’t reset, it must be replaced.
Contact Express Electrical Services
Circuit breaker replacement is an advanced task that only a professional should handle. There could also be wiring issues or the bus bar the breaker is attached to may be damaged. An electrician knows how to spot and fix such problems. We can be reached 24/7 in emergencies. If you suspect a circuit breaker problem in your home, Express Electrical Services is available anywhere in Southern California. Call 323-727-7799 to request service.