Circuit Breaker Types

Whenever there is a short or overloading in a circuit, the switch that automatically interrupts the flow of electricity is called circuit breaker. Older homes built since the mid-1960s that have been rewired use breakers in order to monitor the electricity coming into the house. By detecting and responding to over current, breakers help protect your household from electric shock as well as electrical fire. Installation or replacement of breakers should be done by an electrician in order to meet electrical codes and to avoid any electrical hazard.
There are types of circuit breaker namely standard breaker, the ground fault circuit interrupter breaker and the arc fault circuit interrupter breaker. Standard breakers check the flow of electric current as it enters to your home’s outlets, light fixtures, appliances and electronics. The flow of electricity continues to flow as long as the electricity flowing in the circuit operates within the preset limit. However, if there is short or overload, the breaker trips and shut down the current flowing in the affected circuit in order to prevent wires from overheating and prevent electrical fires.
Another type of breaker is the ground fault circuit interrupter breaker. This device functions by shutting off the power to the circuit when they are tripped by an overload of current, short circuit or a line-to-ground fault. Ground fault circuit interrupter breakers have test buttons on the front and coiled wires. This type of breaker protects the entire circuit there is no need for ground fault circuit interrupter receptacles.
Electrical codes recommend this device to be installed in kitchen, bathrooms, outdoor areas, basements and garages. However, appliances that need to run all the time like refrigerator or medical device don’t have to be protected by this device. This is because the device may trip without your knowledge.
Arc fault circuit interrupter breaker is another type of breaker. This device protects against fires by tripping. Whenever this device detects electrical jump and abnormal path, it automatically disconnects the damaged circuit before the arc creates more heat to cause an electrical fire. Because of worn or damaged electrical cords or wiring, arc fault usually happen. In older homes where insulation of the electrical wires become frayed or damage and during construction where insulation of the wiring is pierced or nicked are just some of the situations where arc faults happen. You should always remember to install the correct breakers in your breaker panel and you must have the right breaker panel size suited in your home.