Why You Should NEVER Up-Size an Electrical Circuit Breaker or Fuse

Why You Should NEVER Up-Size an Electrical Circuit Breaker or Fuse

 

The Purpose Of The Circuit Breaker Is To Protect The Circuit
Background: Darren, a Homeowner from Edmonton, AB

Question: I am just wondering if I can up size the amp rating on a breaker in my fuse box to solve this problem.

  • I want to run a floor heater and a electric fireplace heater, turn them both on and the breaker will pop only a 15 amp on the breaker.
  • Can I just put a 20 or 30 to fix the problem?

Thanks

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Darren.

The answer to this question is ABSOLUTELY NOT!

  • NEVER UP SIZE A CIRCUIT BREAKER

    • because this will cause the circuit wiring to over heat
    • and will create a serious hazard
    • which would most likely cause your house to catch on fire!


Electrical Tip:

  • If your electrical system is overloaded
  • Or circuit breakers are tripping
  • Or fuses are blowing
  • Or you have something that requires more power
  • Then PLEASE, for Safety Sakes install additional electrical circuits!


The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

Smoke Detector Wiring
Smoke Detectors

Home Smoke Detectors

  • Take the mystery out of smoke detector wiring
  • Smoke alarms provide the earliest warning of both fire and smoke

Circuit Breakers
House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers

Circuit Breakers and Fuses
2-pole-circuit-breaker

  • Electrical Wiring Protection using Circuit Breaker
    1. A guide to home electrical circuit breakers
    2. How they work to protect your electrical wiring
    3. When properly installed, your home electrical system wiring is protected

Electrical Safety Tips for Your Home

Home Safety

  • Electrical safety tips start with prevention as the Key
    • By implementing a few electrical safety tips
    • you will be reducing your risk of property damage
    • and personal harm

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all projects.
For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor in Your Area

* Please Use This Link to Ask the Electrician a Question using the Question Form. Thank You!

Thanks for Your Comments about this Article or the Website


FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL:
Questions should be asked from a page of the Same Topic, otherwise your question may be discarded.

*