Single Pole Circuit Breaker

Replacing a Breaker

Identify the circuit breaker you need to replace.  Determine the amperage of the breaker (it is usually engraved in the breaker), determine if it is a single pole or double pole breaker.  Identify the Type of breaker and the manufacturer of the enclosure. (Even though many brands may work in your panel, your panel's warranty may not apply if you use a brand that the panel manufacturer hasn't explicitly approved. That's why it's best to buy circuit breakers from the manufacturer that made your panel.) Once you have your new breaker it is time to replace the old breaker.

Turn off the main power. At the top of the panel is a large breaker called the "MAIN" it would also have the highest amperage of all of the breakers in the box.  Switch this breaker OFF.

 Remove the panel cover to expose the breakers.  The wires that bring electricity into the service panel (usually at the top) will still be hot even after you switch off the main breaker, so never touch them or the main lugs to which they are terminated.  Verify with a meter that all of the other breakers are no longer live.  Each breaker will have a wire attached to its screw terminal.  Verify with a meter that all of the other breakers are no longer live.   On the breaker you plan to replace, loosen the screw, remove the wire, and pull the wire out. To remove the breaker, carefully pry up the edge of the breaker that is closest to the center of the panel, then remove the other edge.

Install the new circuit breaker by slipping the screw terminal end of the breaker under the clip and snap down the end of the breaker that is  closest to the center.  Insert the wire that had removed from the old breaker into the new breaker.  Ensure that the screw is tight.

Replace the panel cover, make sure the breaker is still off, and turn the panel's main switch back ON.

Test your installation.

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