Circuit breakers are a critical safety component of residential and commercial electrical systems, however most people don’t know what these devices do. The expert electrical contractors at Walter’s in Ellsworth, WI, say that understanding how a circuit breaker works and why they are important can help you avoid a number of electrical system problems.

What Is a Circuit Breaker?

Circuit breakers are the main distribution point for the electrical circuits throughout your home. They are designed to stop the energy from flowing if the electrical current levels get too high; this is done by breaking the circuit. The high current ignites a small bit of explosive material, which drives a piston to open the switch and shut off the electricity.

Why Are They Important?

While your electrical system may run smoothly the majority of the time, there are a number of ways the wires can overheat, whether it’s plugging in too many appliances into the same power strip or just bad wiring. If there was no way to turn off the electricity when the circuit is overloaded, it could lead to a fire. If you notice that the circuit breakers on your property are frequently cutting off power, this is a sign of faulty wiring. It’s important to address these issues right away, as this means that your circuit breaker is becoming a safety hazard. An electrician may be able to repair the issue by rewiring your home or upgrading the circuit breaker.

If your circuit breaker has been tripping on a regular basis, it may be time to have your system inspected by an electrical contractor. If you live in Ellsworth, WI, turn to the licensed electrical contractors at Walter’s. They specialize in a wide range of solutions for residential and commercial clients, everything from plumbing and electrical to HVAC and home remodeling. Call (715) 792-5336 today to speak with one of their friendly representatives and request an estimate.