They are the sentry and the automatic, emergency shut-off. Without them, electrical faults can escalate, resulting in potentially dangerous accidents like electrical fires. Ensuring your circuit breaker is in good working order can save homes and lives.
The basic circuit breaker consists of a simple switch, connected to either a bimetallic strip or an electromagnet. The hot wire in the circuit connects to the two ends of the switch. When the switch is flipped to the on position, electricity can flow from the bottom terminal, through the electromagnet, up to the moving contact, across to the stationary contact, and out to the upper terminal. The electricity magnetizes the electromagnet. Increasing current boosts the electromagnet’s magnetic force, and decreasing current lowers the magnetism. When the current jumps to unsafe levels, the electromagnet is strong enough to pull down a metal lever connected to the switch linkage. The entire linkage shifts, tilting the moving contact away from the stationary contact to break the circuit. The electricity shuts off.
If you have been experiencing symptoms such as frequent breaker tripping, flickering lights, power fluctuations, or haven’t had an electrical inspection in some time, call on the professional electricians at Denommee Plumbing, HVAC & Electric for help. Video courtesy of How Stuff Works. www.howstuffworks.com