If a fuse kept breaking, or more circuits were added to a single fuse, homeowners began installing larger than necessary fuses. So, why are circuit breakers the standard now? The Problem with Fuses – Insuranceįuses were not inherently bad, but the homeowners were bad for the fuses. Some circuit breakers have been known to actually fail causing dangerous electricity to still be flowing even if it is turned off. Furthermore, if a fuse is broken, it has to be replaced rather than simply resetting a breaker. If the electricity at any point surges, the metal strip overheats and breaks which stops the continuous flow.Ĭompared with circuit breakers that do the same thing noted above, fuses are less mechanical and more reliable. This piece of metal is sized perfectly to carry a certain amount of electricity. Inside the cylindrical container, known as the fuse, is a tiny piece of metal. Fuse Boxes Explained So how do fuses work?įuses are relatively simple and safe. However, there are still fuse boxes out there and it is important you understand how they function, how to maintain, and if you should replace it. That being said, most fuse boxes have been replaced.

Fuse boxes were commonly installed before the 1960’s, however, the majority of homes have since had their electrical updated since then.

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