Churning with voltage and resembling an explosion at the wire factory, the breaker panel exudes mystique. But it's just a big switch, filled with other smaller ­switches, which lead to the switches ...

We’ve all been annoyed by a tripped circuit breaker. Whether you’re getting ready for a night out or cooking dinner on a ...

A 240-volt service powers heavy-duty appliances like ovens, air conditioners, water heaters and electric dryers. If something goes wrong in that panel, it may cause those systems to fail, damage the ...

As backup power sources become more common in residential construction (Photo 1), many homeowners have learned about the needs and benefits of transfer switches. They know in the event of an electric ...

Confusion abounds over the use of tandem circuit breakers in panelboards, even among electricians and electrical inspectors. Today I'll set the record straight as to when tandem circuit breakers can ...

I'm wiring a new 220v outlet (with the help of my step-father) but I'd just like to make sure he is doing it correctly and that I understand a little bit more... Basically, I'm trying to wire a new ...

A fuse or the overcurrent trip unit of a circuit breaker must be connected in series with each ungrounded conductor [NEC Sec. 240.15(A)]. Also, the breaker must open all ungrounded conductors of the ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Without circuit breakers, the electricity running through your walls could damage wiring and cause fires. There are several reasons why you ...