![]() Once the cover plate is back in place, switch on the main breaker and ensure all circuit breakers are switched on, including the newly replaced one. It is safer to do this with the power off to prevent a screwdriver from slipping and touching a hot wire. Switch off the mains supply again and replace the breaker box cover plate. This will indicate whether your new circuit breaker allows the correct voltage through it. Use the multimeter to check the voltage across all the circuit breakers to ensure that your voltage across the new breaker matches the other breakers. Once the wires are connected, switch on the mains supply switch and switch on your new breaker. Fit The New Circuit BreakerĬlip or screw the new circuit breaker into place, and connect the wires to the new circuit breaker. Depending on your circuit breaker type, unclip or unscrew it for the breaker box panel housing. Undo the screws holding the wires in place on the circuit breaker and push them to the side so they are out of the way. Use your multimeter of contactless volt-meter to ensure none of the wires carry any current. Use your headlamp for extra lighting for this step, mainly if the breaker box panel is in a dark location. If you confirm you have the correct wire size, your new 20-Amp breaker can handle the circuit load. You can identify the gauge wires on the outer wire sheathing. ![]() If you are unsure how to tell the difference between the two-wire gauges, the 14-gauge wire is 0.06-inches thick, while the 12-gauge wire is 0.08-inches thick. Fitting a 20-Amp circuit breaker to a 14-gauge wire will contravene the NEC and pose a severe safety risk for your home. If you want to continue with the replacement, you will need to replace the branch circuit wiring with a 12-gauge wire. For a 14-gauge wire, sometimes referred to as #14 AWG, then you cannot place a 20-Amp circuit breaker in this circuit. Make Sure The Wire Gauge Is Correct.Įxamine the wire gauge on the circuit you want to replace the breaker. Hold the cover plate in place with one hand while you remove the last screw to prevent the cover plate from falling when the last screw is removed. Put on your insulating gloves and use the flat head screwdriver to remove the cover from the circuit breaker panel box. Switch off the main supply switch before opening the panel. It is always safer to work with no current flowing through the circuit breaker panel. ![]() A non-contact voltage meter or a multimeterĬomplete the following steps to change the breaker from a 15-Amp to a 20-Amp.Insulated gloves, preferably rubber, for additional safety.The tools you will need to do the job include the following. However, if the branch circuit is a 14-gauge wire, you’ll need to run a new 12-gauge wire first to safely install a 20-Amp breaker in the electrical panel and a 20-Amp outlet on the end of the circuit. It only takes a few essential tools and the replacement breaker to get the job done. What Size Wire Is Needed For 200Amp Electrical Service – Home Inspection Insider
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |