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Circuit Breakers

A vital part of any electrical system, circuit breakers provide protection against electrical hazards. From emergency faulty circuit breaker replacement to routine inspection, our team of licensed electricians at QRC is ready to assist.

Comprehensive Circuit Breaker Services

Circuit breakers are essential safety devices in your electrical systems that protect against overloads and faults. These devices automatically detect and block excess electrical flow to prevent overheating, fire, or damage to devices and appliances.

Upon detecting the excessive electrical current, the circuit breaker’s internal mechanism, which has a magnetic or thermal-reactive design, responds to the current. The trip activation immediately prompts the circuit breaker to move its contacts apart, interrupting and disconnecting the electrical current.

Circuit breaker installation and replacement

With a team of skilled technicians, we replace circuit breakers while adhering to North Carolina electrical code and manufacturer guidelines. Whether replacing a circuit breaker or upgrading to an improved device, your technician can tailor a solution that meets your electrical system’s needs. They’ll meticulously inspect your electrical system to optimize function and protection.

Knowing when to replace a circuit breaker is key for the safety and convenience of your home. Here are signs that suggest your circuit breakers need replacing:

  • Frequent tripping: While occasional breaker trips are okay, frequent tripping signals an underlying problem and can cause wear or damage to your appliances and electrical devices.
  • Age: Circuit breakers can last up to about 30 years depending on usage and quality. Circuit breakers approaching the end of their expected life spans may be due for replacement.
  • Damage: Cracks, charring, melted wiring, and other signs can indicate potential overheating or electrical arcing. Often paired with burning smells, buzzing, and other strange sounds or smells, signs of physical damage suggest your breaker can’t safely interrupt electrical flow. 
  • Overheating: Circuit breakers that are hot to the touch may suggest loose connections, overloaded circuits, component failure, or other issues that can increase fire hazard.
  • Underperforming equipment: Flickering lights, underpowered appliances and devices, and other problems can be signs of failing circuit breakers.

Circuit breaker maintenance and inspection

Circuit breaker maintenance and inspection services aim to ensure the safety and efficiency of your system. These preventive maintenance strategies help avoid emergency malfunctions, minimizing repair costs and optimizing system performance.

Our technicians can inspect your circuit breakers for discoloration, chips, or any other signs of physical damage, and ensure that labels and markers accurately define voltage ratings and other details.

They can also perform operational and safety checks, which may include:

  • Checking for functional tripping mechanisms
  • Insulation and contact resistance testing
  • Verifying that mechanical components are clean and lubricated

Electrical Panel Upgrade

If your breakerl panel is outdated or unable to meet your home’s power demands, our team can personalize an upgrade to boost the performance of your electrical system. During a consultation with a technician, they’ll evaluate your home to determine your panel needs and create a replacement plan that adheres to local electrical and building permit requirements.

While older breaker panels and fuse boxes provide between 30 and 100 amps to a home, 200-amp panels are standard for the power demands of modern homes. Upgrading to a 200-amp panel can offer advantages such as:

  • Increased capacity: An upgraded panel has the capacity to handle high electrical loads for modern appliances and devices, such as HVAC systems, EV chargers, and smart home devices.
  • Enhanced safety: Modern panels comply with up-to-date electrical codes and offer enhanced protection against overloaded circuits, shocks, and fires.
  • Boosted energy efficiency: Some panels have features that optimize energy distribution to conserve power, leading to a reduced utility bill and environmental impact.

Signs you need an electrical panel upgrade

Your electrical panel may be due for replacement if:

  • Circuit breakers trip frequently
  • The panel feels warm or hot or emits a burning odor
  • The panel is outdated and doesn’t comply with current safety standards and codes
  • You rely on extension cords or power strips due to insufficient outlets
  • You’re installing appliances with modern power requirements
  • You’re remodeling or building additions for your home

Why Choose QRC for Circuit Breaker Services?

Serving Winston-Salem and other North Carolina areas, our team at QRC is known for a customer-centric approach, personalized electrical panel solutions, and detail-oriented services. We’re family-owned and operated, offering 50 years of combined experience to ensure top-notch experiences.

Enjoy these advantages when you book with QRC for circuit breaker services:

  • Expertise: Licensed, bonded, and insured, our electricians possess the essential skills and expertise to address circuit breaker and electrical panel needs. 
  • Professional and trustworthy: We’re committed to quality workmanship, upfront pricing, and excellent customer service to earn 100% satisfaction from our customers.
  • 24/7 availability: For emergency circuit breaker replacement and other services, we’re available around the clock to respond to and address your electrical service needs.

Call QRC in North Carolina to Optimize Your Circuit Breaker Safety

From circuit breaker panel upgrades to everyday electrical panel services, QRC has you covered with advanced skills, comprehensive maintenance programs, and flexible financing options.

Don’t compromise on your home’s function and safety — contact us or book online to get the most from your electrical system.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you reset a circuit breaker?

A tripped circuit breaker will either be in the off or middle position. With the connected devices unplugged to avoid surge damage, push the breaker handle to the off position if it’s in the middle. Then, switch it to the on position to complete the reset.

What is the main circuit breaker?

The main circuit breaker functions as the overarching control of the electrical panel, bridging the municipal electrical line with the home’s residential service. Tripping the main breaker or turning it off disconnects all power entering through the electrical panel.

How long does it take to upgrade an electrical panel?

Replacement service times vary, but many can be completed within a day. You won’t have access to your electrical system during the installation.

What should I do if my circuit breaker trips repeatedly?

Ensure you’re not overloading a circuit with high-demand devices. If the problem persists, contact an electrician before resetting the breaker.

Can you provide circuit breaker safety tips?

Use these strategies to maintain the safety of your circuit breakers and electrical system between professional services:

  • Keep your electrical panel clear, labeled, and accessible
  • Avoid overloading circuits
  • Periodically inspect your breakers for signs of damage or wear
  • Consider installing surge protection devices
  • Schedule professional service for repairs and annual maintenance