Molded Case Circuit Breaker Sizes

Molded Case Circuit Breakers: What You Need to Know About Sizes

It’s no secret that electrical safety in the home or office is of the utmost importance and is best achieved through the installation of the right circuit breakers. Molded case circuit breakers are designed to protect electrical systems from the threat of overloads, short circuits, and other potentially dangerous conditions. But what sizes do you need to ensure adequate protection for your wiring setup?

For starters, it’s important to understand the difference between circuit breaker sizes. Each size is rated for a specific amperage, or electrical current, which is measured in amps. This rating is the maximum amount of amperage that a given circuit breaker can handle before tripping, or automatically shutting off the power supply. Choosing the right size circuit breaker for the amperage of your system is essential for safety and reliability.

When selecting circuit breakers, you should select one that is rated at least 20% higher than the amperage of your system. For example, if your system requires a 15-amp circuit breaker, you should select a breaker that is rated for at least 18 amps. It’s also important to note that certain appliances, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and hot tubs, require dedicated circuits and, therefore, require circuit breakers that are larger than those used for general lighting or plug-in devices.

The most common molded case circuit breaker sizes include 15 amp, 20 amp, 30 amp, and 50 amp. These sizes are typically used in residential settings, while commercial buildings typically require larger breakers, such as 60 amp, 100 amp, 200 amp, and 400 amp. Regardless of the type of system you’re dealing with, it’s always important to follow local building codes when selecting the correct circuit breaker size.

When it comes to safety, it’s important to choose the correct sized molded case circuit breaker regardless of the type of system you’re dealing with. Selecting the wrong size of breaker can lead to serious electrical problems and even fire hazards. It’s also important to remember to replace any old or faulty circuit breakers with new ones of the same size and rating.

For more information on molded case circuit breakers, please consult a qualified electrician or visit your local hardware store. With the right knowledge and careful selection, you can ensure that your electrical system is safe and reliable.

Molded Case Circuit Breakerachi Equipment Systems