How to Replace a Circuit Breaker and Stop It from Tripping
Tired of dealing with a circuit breaker that’s constantly tripping? Whether it’s happening all the time or only now and then, this guide will help you fix the problem for under $5 using basic tools you probably already have. Replacing a circuit breaker can be surprisingly easy and affordable. Here’s how you can do it without calling in an expensive electrician.
What You’ll Need
You only need a few items:
- Flathead screwdriver
- Replacement circuit breaker
- Painters tape
These basic tools will get the job done in no time. And yes, it’s possible that the breaker itself has failed over time, especially if it’s been subject to high humidity or voltage spikes. There have been plenty of recalled breakers due to these issues, so swapping a failed unit might just solve your problem.
Check the Breaker First
Before doing anything else, it’s important to identify the issue. In my case, I knew the breaker was the culprit because it’s been tripping for over a year, and there’s nothing else wrong with the circuit.
Take out your phone and snap a picture of the breaker. Don’t just focus on the amp rating (the 15 or 20 you see on the switch); pay attention to the part number printed on the breaker. These numbers will help you get the exact replacement you need when you head to the store.
Find the Right Replacement Breaker
When you’re at the store looking for a new breaker, don’t just grab any 15-amp unit off the shelf. Manufacturers like Square D make a variety of breakers—often housed in different colored boxes. You might see blue boxes, red boxes, etc., but what matters is that you match the part number with your old breaker. Double-check to make sure you’re getting the correct model!
Important Pre-Installation Tips
When you get your new breaker, you might notice some grease at the bottom. Leave it there! That grease helps the breaker slide into the panel properly, so don’t wipe it off.
Also, pay close attention to how the wire attaches to the breaker. Most people make the mistake of running the wire beneath the screw head. Instead, thread the wire between the two small plates under the screw. This makes for a safer and more reliable connection.
Let’s Replace a Circuit Breaker
When you’re ready to replace the circuit breaker, follow these steps:
Step 1: Flip Off the Old Breaker and Mark It
Head over to your panel and find the breaker you want to replace. Flip it to the OFF position. Use the painters tape to mark it. This might seem like a small step, but it’s very easy to lose track of the breaker you’re working on once you take off the panel cover.
Step 2: Turn Off the Main Power
Before anything else, make sure to turn off the main breaker. This reduces your risk of getting shocked while you work. It’s also smart to have a flashlight handy since your home will lose power with the main breaker off.
Step 3: Remove the Panel Cover
Using your flathead screwdriver, unscrew the panel cover. Hold the cover with one hand as you remove the final screws—it can be heavier than you’d think, and you don’t want it falling on you.
Step 4: Be Careful Around Live Wires
Even with the main breaker off, there will still be live power in the panel. The power comes in from the street via the three large wires at the top of your panel (usually two black and one aluminum in the center). Don’t touch these wires. The power is still active on them, and you don’t want to mess with that.
Step 5: Use a Voltage Detector
Double-check that there’s no power anywhere else in the panel. Use a multimeter or a voltage detector pen. These tools are very affordable and will give you extra peace of mind. The pen will light up and beep if any power is present.
Swapping Out the Breaker
With the panel ready, it’s time to change the breaker:
- Loosen the screw on the old breaker and pull the wire out.
- The breaker isn’t held in by screws; just use a bit of force. If it’s on the right side, push it outward. If it’s on the left, push it the opposite way. The breaker will pop right out.
Now that you’ve got the old breaker out, you’re ready to install the new one.
First, angle the new breaker into place. There’s a little hook on the end that needs to engage first. Once you get it properly aligned, you can push the other end into position—it’ll snap in when positioned correctly.
Securing the Wire
Before you attach the wire to the new breaker:
- Ensure the screw on the breaker is loosened enough to insert the wire.
- Feed the wire between the two plates, and hold it in place while you tighten the screw.
Make sure the screw is snug. Don’t overdo it, but definitely tighten enough that the wire isn’t going anywhere.
Buttoning Everything Up
With the new breaker installed:
- Replace the panel cover. Be cautious, as the panel cover is heavy. You may need to wiggle it into place so everything lines up before inserting the screws.
Once you’ve put everything back together, it’s time to turn the power back on.
Turning the Power On
Flip the main breaker back on. Some of these switches require a bit of force, so use both thumbs and snap it into place.
Final Thoughts
For less than $5 and about 15 minutes of your time, you’ve just replaced a circuit breaker. Hopefully, this solves your tripping problem, but if not, at least you’ve ruled out a faulty breaker as the cause. And if you’re not comfortable working on electrical systems, hiring an electrician is a good idea. But now, you’ll understand exactly what’s involved when they do the job.
Stay safe, and thanks for reading!
