To change a fuse in a fusebox, you must follow a careful step-by-step process involving safety precautions and correctly identifying and replacing the faulty fuse, as outlined in the provided reference.
It's important to note that while the question mentions "main breaker fuse," modern electrical systems typically use a main circuit breaker which is reset, not replaced like a fuse. Older systems might have a main fuse (often a cartridge type). The steps described in the reference are for changing a fuse in a fusebox, which could apply to circuit fuses or potentially a main fuse in older installations, but not a main breaker. Changing a main fuse is extremely dangerous and should only be done by a qualified electrician. The steps below detail how to change a standard circuit fuse based on the reference.
Steps to Safely Change a Fuse
Changing a fuse requires strict adherence to safety procedures to avoid electric shock or further damage. Here are the essential steps based on the reference:
- Unplug Everything: Before doing anything else, unplug all appliances connected to the circuit that lost power. This helps prevent surges when power is restored and aids in identifying the problematic circuit.
- Turn Off The Power: This is the most crucial safety step. Locate your main electrical panel (fusebox or breaker box) and turn off the main power switch or breaker for the entire house. This ensures no electricity is flowing to the fusebox while you are working.
- Locate The Fusebox: Find the electrical panel containing the fuses. It's usually in a basement, garage, utility closet, or outside wall.
- Open The Fusebox: Carefully open the door or cover of the fusebox to access the fuses inside.
- Find The Broken Fuse: Examine each fuse. A faulty fuse often has a melted link visible through a glass window (for screw-in type) or may show discoloration or a burnt smell. Identifying the circuit that lost power (Step 1) helps narrow down which fuse to check.
- Check For Current: Even after turning off the main power, it's wise to use a non-contact voltage tester to double-check that there is no current in the fuse terminals before touching anything. This is an added layer of safety.
- Remove The Faulty Fuse:
- For screw-in fuses: Gently unscrew the blown fuse by hand.
- For cartridge fuses: Use a fuse puller tool (never pliers or your hands) to grip and remove the cylindrical fuse.
- Replace The Fuse: Insert the new fuse. Ensure the new fuse has the exact same amperage rating as the old one. Using a fuse with a higher rating can cause wiring to overheat and potentially start a fire.
- For screw-in fuses: Screw the new fuse firmly into the socket.
- For cartridge fuses: Insert the new fuse using the fuse puller tool, ensuring it is seated correctly in the clips.
After replacing the fuse, close the fusebox door and turn the main power back on. Then, turn on the individual circuit breaker (if applicable, although typically fuseboxes don't have circuit breakers for each circuit) or switch the power back on. Finally, plug your appliances back in one by one to ensure the circuit is working correctly. If the new fuse blows immediately, there is likely a serious wiring fault that requires a qualified electrician.
Here's a summary table of the steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Unplug Everything | Disconnect appliances on the affected circuit. |
| 2. Turn Off The Power | Shut off the main power supply to the fusebox. |
| 3. Locate The Fusebox | Find the electrical panel containing fuses. |
| 4. Open The Fusebox | Access the fuses by opening the panel door. |
| 5. Find The Broken Fuse | Visually inspect fuses for damage or signs of failure. |
| 6. Check For Current | Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off. |
| 7. Remove The Faulty Fuse | Unscrew or use a fuse puller to take out the blown fuse. |
| 8. Replace The Fuse | Insert a new fuse with the identical amperage rating. |
Changing a fuse is a task that requires respect for electricity and adherence to safety guidelines. If you are uncomfortable at any step, it is always best to consult a qualified electrician.
