Replace 15 Amp Breaker With 20 Amp
The purpose of replacing a 15 Amp Breaker with a 20 Amp breaker is to increase the amperage available to circuits that require more than 15 Amps. When a circuit requires more than the 15 Amps that a 15 Amp breaker can provide, a 20 Amp breaker must be installed. This process is relatively simple and can usually be completed in an hour or less. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace a 15 Amp breaker with a 20 Amp breaker.
Steps to Replace a 15 Amp Breaker with a 20 Amp Breaker
The first step in replacing a 15 Amp breaker with a 20 Amp breaker is to turn off the power to the circuit. This is done by turning off the main breaker, which is typically located in the main electrical panel. If a sub-panel is present, the main breaker should be located there. Once the power is turned off, the panel door should be closed and the panel should not be touched until the process is complete.
The next step is to remove the 15 Amp breaker from the panel. This is usually done by loosening the screws that hold the breaker in place and then gently pulling the breaker out of the panel. Once the breaker is removed, the screws should be set aside. This should leave a space in the panel where the 15 Amp breaker was located.
The third step is to locate the 20 Amp breaker. This should be done by checking the electrical panel for a breaker that matches the size and type of the 15 Amp breaker that was removed. Once the 20 Amp breaker is located, it should be removed from the panel.
The fourth step is to connect the 20 Amp breaker to the electrical panel. This is done by securing the breaker onto the panel using the same screws that were removed from the 15 Amp breaker. The breaker should be secured firmly but without over tightening the screws.
The fifth step is to run the wires from the electrical panel to the 20 Amp breaker. This is done by attaching the appropriate wires to the breaker terminals. It is important to make sure that the wires are properly connected and that all of the connections are tight and secure.
The sixth step is to turn the power back on to the circuit. This is done by turning the main breaker or sub-panel back on. Once the power is turned back on, the 20 Amp breaker should be in place and the circuit should be operational.
Precautions When Replacing a 15 Amp Breaker With a 20 Amp Breaker
Before replacing a 15 Amp breaker with a 20 Amp breaker, it is important to make sure that the circuit can handle the increased amperage. This is done by checking the wire size, circuit load, and other factors. If the circuit is not designed to handle the extra amperage, it is important to consult a professional before proceeding.
Additionally, it is important to make sure that the 20 Amp breaker is compatible with the electrical panel. This is done by checking the manufacturer’s specifications for the panel. If the breaker does not match the specifications, it can cause damage to the panel and create a hazardous situation.
Conclusion
Replacing a 15 Amp breaker with a 20 Amp breaker is a relatively simple process that can usually be completed in an hour or less. It is important to make sure that the circuit can handle the increased amperage and that the breaker is compatible with the panel. If done correctly, the circuit should function properly and safely.
Parallax ITEQ1520 Twin-Duplex Circuit Breaker - 15/20 Amp - Walmart.com
Eaton 15/20 Amp Single-Pole Type BD Tandem BR Circuit Breaker-BD1520
Square D Homeline 15 Amp 20 Amp Single-Pole Tandem Circuit Breaker
