How to Replace a Defective Circuit Breaker
- 1). Double-check to confirm that the electrical problem is actually in the circuit breaker. Only after confirming that the problem is outside the service panel should you replace a breaker as they are quite durable and rarely suffer mechanical failure. If the breaker is repeatedly tripping, make sure the circuit is not overloaded or has a short someplace.
- 2). Turn off the power to the circuit breaker box by switching off the main breaker. Flipping the main breaker turns off all electricity to your house, so have a flashlight handy.
- 3). Remove the faulty breaker from its slot by pulling on the switch. Breakers clip onto bus bars that carry electrical current, but you should not have to use excessive force to remove the breaker.
- 4). Disconnect the black wire from the faulty breaker.
- 5). Connect the black wire to the new breaker and clip it into place. Restore power to the service panel.
