Adding a new breaker to your panel can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right tools and some patience, anyone can add a breaker to their panel and increase their home’s electrical power capacity. So roll up your sleeves, grab your tools, and let’s get to work!
Welcoming a New Breaker to the Panel Party!
Installing a new breaker into your panel is an exciting time. It’s like a party – you’re inviting a new guest into your panel and they’re here to help expand your electrical power capabilities. But before you throw open the gates and welcome your new breaker, make sure you have the correct breaker for your panel size.
Also keep in mind that you may need to upgrade your panel before adding a new breaker. Most panels are designed for a specific number of breakers and adding additional breakers can overload the system, leading to potential danger. So before adding a breaker, check with your local electrician on whether or not your panel needs to be upgraded first.
Power Up: Installing a Breaker in Your Panel
Now that you’ve picked out your new breaker and checked that your panel is up-to-date and ready to receive it, it’s time to install your new breaker! First, shut off all power to your panel, both main and branch circuits. Next, unplug or turn off all appliances and fixtures that use power from the panel.
Once everything is disconnected, it is time to add the breaker to the panel. Open the panel, and then insert the breaker into the bus bar. Once properly inserted, tighten the screws at either end of the breaker to secure it. Then, connect the wires to the breaker. Make sure to match the colors of the wire with the colors of the breaker. Once all wires are connected, press the breaker into the panel. The breaker should snap into place.
Finally, switch the main power back on and test the breaker by turning on an appliance or fixture that is connected to the breaker. If all is working correctly, you have successfully added a new breaker to your panel!
And that’s it! You’re all done, and your panel is now ready to handle any additional electrical needs. Installing a new breaker may seem daunting, but with the right tools and some patience, you can easily add a new breaker to your panel. So get ready to power up your panel and welcome a new breaker to the party!