Installing a circuit breaker timer is commonly known as the most frightening aspect of house electrical repair. Most individuals prefer not to perform it themselves for fear of getting surprised. However, installing circuit breakers in most domestic electrical panels does not have to be hazardous or difficult. You may securely install a circuit breaker timer in your house if you understand how your electrical panel is laid out and take the necessary measures during installation.
Here are the Tips to Install a Circuit Breaker Timer:
Choose the Right Place to Install the Circuit Breaker Timer
- Turn off the main power supply. Also, switch off the main circuit breaker in the panel.
- The circuit breaker has the highest amp rating. It is located at the top or bottom of the panel.
- Look for a blank spot on the electrical panel that might hold a circuit breaker timer.
- Give special attention to the empty spaces at the top and bottom of the cover.
- Some electrical panel manufacturers include detachable knockouts or plates at these places, but the panel itself does not have options for mounting a circuit breaker.
- Remove the electrical panel cover. Use a screwdriver to remove three of the screws that hold the lid together.
- Check the panel to ensure that the power is off. To check for power, use a test light or a meter set. Do not proceed if power is present on any circuit breaker other than the Service Disconnect or Main circuit breaker until the power source is turned off.
- Locate a vacant area adjacent to or between existing circuit breaker timers. The new circuit breaker must be installed next to an existing circuit breaker.
Place the Circuit Breaker Timer in the Panel
- The panel label will indicate all of the allowed circuit breakers that can be fitted in the panel. Deviating from the list is a code violation that invalidates any UL, FM, or other listing services approval.
- Switch the circuit breaker handle to the OFF position. The circuit breaker timer has three potential positions: ON, OFF, and a middle position when TRIPPED. Push the lever to the OFF position before installing the breaker to safeguard your safety throughout the installation procedure.
- Align the circuit breaker with the bars in the panel. Tilt the circuit breaker timer so that the bottom-mounted hold-on clip connects to the panel’s plastic ‘grab’ bar. Once attached, rotate the circuit breaker on the mechanical contact and roll towards the center of the panel, ensuring that the panel’s bus bar remains aligned with the slot or opening in the circuit breaker case.
- Firmly push on the circuit breaker to secure it to the bus bar. Use your thumb to firmly but gently press the circuit breaker onto the bus bar until it snaps into place. Spring clips and the panel cover hold the breaker in place, so you don’t need to screw it in.
Finish and Test the Installation of Circuit Breaker Timer
- Remove the knockout plates from your cover as needed. Bring the cover up to the panel and compare the new circuit breaker placement with the cover holes. Using pliers, remove any knockout plates from the cover place where the circuit breaker will go.
- Remove all foreign items from the panel and reattach the cover. Then, install the cover on the panel.
- Turn on the main breaker to test your new circuit breaker. Use a test light or meter to ensure that the new circuit functions properly.
- Label the circuit breaker timer. Find the panel’s circuit directory on the inside of the panel door. Determine the circuit breaker position and describe the circuit (load type such as “refrigerator” or location such as “living room”) in the supplied area.
- If any circuits were relocated while installing the new circuit, be sure to modify the directory accordingly.
S.B.ELECTROTECH
S.B. Electrotech is a company that specializes in manufacturing of electrical and electronic testing and measuring instruments. With years of expertise in this field, we ensure to provide high quality, safe, and sustainable products.
