You are here:

Electrical Wiring in the Home/changinh a breaker to a higher watt

Advertisement


Question
hi my home current breaker are 10 amps,15,amps,
20 amps can i change this to a higher rating as they trip a lot

Answer
Hi Ramesh.

Normally, the size of the breaker is based on the wire size, that is, for a 15 amp breaker the wire size is only a #14, while on the 20 amp breaker, the wire size is a #12.  You cannot use a 20amp breaker on a #14 wire.

I would research why the breakers are tripping, which you will probably find is due to load.  Reduce the load, or install additional circuits, and you should not have any more problems.

Good luck.

Rick Miell
About Electrical Wiring in the Home
This site answers questions related to home electrical wiring, home wiring, general electrical help,and other electrical questions related to aleternating current (AC). You can find help on the National Electical Code, home electrical issues, wiring electrical outlets, installing lighting, electrical grounding, and general electrical help for do-it-yourself projects not require an electrician. If you do not see your home electrical wiring question answered in this area then please ask your electrical wiring question here

Electrical Wiring in the Home

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Rick Miell

Expertise

Past County electrical inspector, hold St. of Colorado Master license, will try to answer any electrical question with Code related answers.

Experience

State of Colorado Master Electrician. Past County Electricial Inspector (15 years)

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.