Installing A New Circuit Breaker

Verify that your breaker panel can handle a new circuit.

Installing a new circuit breaker.

Standing to the side of the panel restore power to the panel by setting the service disconnect or main to on and then set the new circuit breaker to on. The hot wire usually red or black from each circuit connects to a breaker. Install your new breaker. This article is focused on running a new circuit for light fixtures or outlets.

Circuit breakers are more convenient. The same principals apply to all 110v circuits and slightly modified instructions can be used for 240v circuits. Distributes power from the main breaker to the individual circuit breakers. There are a few reasons for a new breaker box installation over a fuse box.

Set the new breaker switch to the off position. Reconnect the wires to the terminal screws and replace your panel cover. Route the black wire that is connected to the breaker switch from the cable clamp to the location where you will install the breaker. If the electrical circuit trips the switch you just flip it back on.

Line up your new breaker with the clips on the side of the bus bar. The average cost to replace a fuse box with a breaker panel is 1 100 to 4 000 and depends on what capacity the new breaker panel can handle. Running a new electric circuit is a pretty simple task that can be accomplished with a little bit of effort care and the right tools. Install the circuit breaker.

Newer homes will have a 100 amp 150 amp or 200 amp rating while some older homes may have a 60 amp rating. Each breaker snaps onto the bus. Press the breaker down firmly until it snaps in place. Hold the circuit breaker at an angle and align its connection point with the rail clip or slot in the service panel.

Check for correct operation of the new circuit light outlet etc with a test light or meter. If you re installing an afci breaker as shown on the following pages you ll also connect the neutral wire to the breaker. Tools materials required to run a new circuit wire strippers. Turn on the branch circuit breakers and your power main.