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By: Elizabeth Morgan
Fuse boxes serve the same purpose as circuit breaker boxes.
The fuse controls the electrical current from appliances within
a home. Fuse boxes are outdated by modern standards. The advantage
to having circuit breakers in a home is that instead of replacing
a fuse each time it is used, circuit breakers can be easily
reset. It can be frustrating, expensive and time consuming
to have to replace a fuse every time it is used.
According to government estimate, faulty electrical wiring
each year causes approximately forty thousand house fires.
Like circuit breakers, fuses are used to prevent fires and
electrocutions by interrupting electrical currents in the
case of a power overload. When a fuse blows or a circuit breaker
trips, it is important for you to locate the source of the
problem.
One of the most common causes of blown fuses is power overload.
For instance, if you have lights that seem to stop working
frequently, you may have too many items connected to a single
power source. In other cases, blown fuses may represent more
serious problems. Sometimes an appliance may have a short
circuit; it could even mean a short circuit in the home’s
internal wiring. In either case, it is best to have a professional
electrician evaluate the fuse box and wiring to prevent serious
house fires.
As you would in a circuit breaker panel, you should also
label each fuse in the fuse box. Labeling each fuse can make
it easier to replace the one in need by accurately locating
the blown fuse and which appliance it serves. You can identify
a blown fuse by first turning off everything on the circuit.
Identify fuses that are melted, cracked or have frayed wires.
When replacing a fuse, keep everything turned off to prevent
electrocution.
About the author:
Circuit Breakers Info provides detailed information about
circuit breaker panels, circuit breaker manufacturers, plus
advice on how to replace and install circuit breakers and
where to buy used and surplus circuit breakers. Circuit Breakers
Info is the sister site of Electricians Web.
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