Adding a New Breaker to Your Electrical Panel

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power supply. If you’re a homeowner in Fayetteville, Raleigh, or the greater Triangle area, adding a new circuit breaker may become necessary as your electrical demands grow. Whether planning a home renovation or upgrading to modern appliances, ensuring your electrical system can handle the load is essential.

What Role Does a Circuit Breaker Play?

A circuit breaker is a vital safety component within your electrical panel. Its primary role is to protect your home’s wiring and appliances from damage due to electrical overloads or short circuits. The breaker trips when a circuit is overloaded, cutting off the power supply and preventing potential hazards like electrical fires.

Circuit breakers also ensure the smooth operation of electrical devices. By dividing your home’s electrical load into manageable circuits, they reduce the risk of interruptions. This balance is crucial for homes with high energy demands.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, electrical issues, including overloaded circuits, account for over 51,000 fires annually. Ensuring your panel has adequate breakers helps mitigate these risks and keeps your home safe.

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Why Would I Need To Add a Breaker to My Panel?

You may need to install a new circuit breaker in your panel for various reasons. As homes evolve, so do their electrical requirements, and your panel must keep up.

Common reasons homeowners add breakers include:

• Home additions or renovations: New rooms, garages, or outdoor spaces require additional circuits.
• Modern appliances: Upgrades like HVAC systems, tankless water heaters, or electric vehicle chargers often need dedicated breakers.
• Preventing overloaded circuits: If your current breakers trip frequently, it could indicate an overloaded panel. Adding a breaker can help distribute the load.
• Meeting code requirements: Electrical code updates or home inspections may require panel upgrades, including adding breakers.

Expanding your panel’s capacity is an investment in safety and efficiency, ensuring your home’s electrical system meets modern standards.

How To Add a Breaker

Adding a breaker may seem straightforward, but it involves handling live electrical components, which can be dangerous. Here’s a general overview:

1. Turn off power: Always switch off the main breaker to ensure the panel is not energized.
2. Remove the panel cover: Use appropriate tools to access the breaker slots.
3. Install the breaker: Attach the breaker securely to the bus bar and connect the circuit wires.
4. Restore power and test: Once installed, turn the main power back on and test the new breaker for functionality.

While this process may seem simple, any error can lead to serious consequences, including electrical shock or damage to your system. For your safety, hiring a licensed professional with expertise in electrical panel work is best. With over 70 years of experience, Blanton’s provides trusted services to ensure your home’s electrical upgrades are done safely and efficiently.

Schedule Circuit Breaker and Electrical Panel Services With Blanton’s Today

When it comes to your home’s electrical system, experienced and reliable electricians matter. Since 1951, Blanton’s has proudly served homeowners in Fayetteville, Raleigh, and the Triangle area. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your calls and offer free estimates on replacement quotes, giving you peace of mind with every service.

Trust Blanton’s to deliver professional, safe, and efficient solutions. Schedule an appointment now to ensure your home’s electrical system meets your needs.