First off, what is a circuit breaker?
We can check Wikipedia for more
information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circuit_breaker
Short Version: Circuit
breakers are responsible for regulating amps that flow within an
electric system. The circuit breaker trips in case there is some
kind of power surge. This ensures that the surge doesn't melt and
destroy electrical wires which may also result in a possible fire.
Like any other component or part, circuit breakers need to be
maintained and cleaned for optimal performance. In general every
circuit breaker varies in design but ultimately you can still apply
these cleaning techniques.
1. Dirty Circuit Breakers
The problem with a dirty circuit
breaker is the risk of power fluctuations, outage, electrical spikes
or power fluctuations which can increase electric costs. There's
also the risk of blowing a fuse, unexplained drop in current or
electrical fire. Before cleaning a circuit breaker you should take a
few precautions when opening the electric panel since the wires
contain a large flow of amps.
2. Play it
Safe
You've got to make safety your first priority. You'll be standing on
a grounding mat that you've placed in front of the circuit breaker.
Stand on this mat the entire time! Make sure the grounding wrist
band is wrapped securely around your wrist and ensure the power is
off before starting to clean. I always work with a grounding mat
before doing this type of work and you should too.
3. Panel
Removal
In most cases you'll be dealing with four screws which you'll
carefully place on the side. Make sure to remember where these screws
are. Don't be afraid to work the circuit breaker slightly in order
to loosen it up. Never use the screwdriver to take the panel off.
Once the panel is off set it aside some place out of the way.
4. Cleaning
the Circuit Breaker
You should be able to see all the parts inside the panel box. Note
the wires leading to the switches and beneath the contacts. See any
dirt? Use a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol to rub over the dirty
areas. Look at the wires one by one and where they connect to. Do
you see any discoloration or greening? Clean one wire at a time by
unscrewing the contact and cleaning it with isopropyl alcohol, now
replace it where it was.
NOTE: The
tarnish might still be there as a result of oxidation which is
normal.
Work one wire at a time by unscrewing the contact and cleaning it with the isopropyl alcohol, then replacing it where it was. Continue doing this until the dirt on the end of the wires is cleaned off.
5. Actual
Circuit Breaker
WARNING: Never touch the electric wiring until you're 100% sure
that there is no electricity running through it.
If applicable check for a test position on the circuit breaker. Make
sure it's switched to test mode. Ensure that you're properly grounded
with the grounding mat and that there is no power running through the
system. Double check and triple check again. Before removing the
breaker take a minute to remember how it's been placed and fitted.
Now go ahead and remove the breaker from it's container. Use a clean
towel or cloth and start wiping away the gunk from the breaker, any
contacts, bushings and switch. Once it's clean switch the circuit
breaker from test mode back into it's original setting.
I like to wait until the circuit breaker is completely dry from the
damp cloth (used with isopropyl alcohol) I used before putting it
back in so I wait about thirty to forty minutes before putting the
breaker back in.
6. Does your
circuit breaker need replacing?
If the circuit breaker is old and dirty and you suspect something
doesn't look right, it may need replacing especially if it's tripping
intermittently. If this is the case you can get a replacement at
http://www.allelectricneedsinc.com
. Email them a photo of the breaker if need be. I like using this
company since they always match competitor prices and don't rush me
over the phone. They're based in southern California and work on a
national level in the USA but also ship to Canada.
However if your circuit breaker looks fine after cleaning and isn't
tripping intermittently then you can safely put it back in its place.
7. Wrapping it up
Put the cover back on and make sure to use all the screws you removed originally before you turn the power back on. Check and double check your work.
