Cost to Replace a Circuit Breaker
Replacing a circuit breaker means removing the panel cover, disconnecting the old breaker, and installing a replacement with exactly the same amperage and type. Homeowners take on this repair when a breaker is faulty or damaged. Work inside the electrical service panel carries a risk of severe electric shock or electrocution, so a licensed professional should handle it.
Common reasons homeowners do this job
- A breaker has been identified as faulty.
- An existing breaker is damaged.
- A worn breaker needs replacement.
- Panel assessment identifies a breaker that needs replacing.
DIY or call a pro?
A licensed professional should perform this replacement; it is a professional-only job because working in the electrical service panel can cause severe electric shock or electrocution. The professional must verify that power is off with a voltage tester before touching components. Signs of interior panel damage or overheating also need professional assessment.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I replace a breaker myself if I switch off the main power?
- Leave this to a licensed professional. Switching off the main power leaves this a professional job: a licensed professional should do the work and verify that power is off before touching components. The tools for the job include a non-contact voltage tester, an insulated screwdriver, and a torque screwdriver; owning those tools still leaves professional handling as the requirement.
- What affects the price of a circuit breaker replacement?
- The price scales with the number of circuit breakers being replaced, the labor time involved, and the replacement materials. The new breaker must match the existing breaker's amperage and type exactly.
- What should be checked before buying a replacement breaker?
- Have the professional confirm the existing breaker's amperage and type before selecting a replacement. Both must be an exact match; this repair calls for keeping the same amperage.
- What if there are signs of overheating inside the panel?
- Interior damage or overheating is something the professional should check when assessing the faulty breaker. If either is found, ask the professional to assess it rather than assuming a breaker replacement alone addresses the panel's condition.
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