How to change a circuit breaker from 15 to 20 amp

A home’s entire electrical system runs through one distribution hub: the electrical panel. The electrical panel, or breaker box, is full of individual circuit breakers that control circuits or branches of electrical wires throughout the house.

One circuit breaker may control all of the outdoor lights, another your kitchen outlets, and another may control individual appliances like a washing machine or air conditioner.

The circuit breaker’s job is to trip if the circuit is drawing too much power, as this can be hazardous for many reasons.

However, circuit breakers don’t last forever and eventually need an upgrade, so learning how to replace a circuit breaker may be a handy skill to have. This guide will explain how to safely handle this potentially dangerous—but surprisingly simple—job.

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When to Replace a Circuit Breaker

Circuit breakers don’t last forever. Many can effectively operate for around 20 years or so. Frequent circuit breaker tripping can wear down a breaker’s internal component

change breaker on panel

how to change breakers in breaker box