How To Replace Home Breaker Box in 5 Easy Steps

It is important to keep your home's breaker box in working order, as it helps to ensure the safety of you and your family. That said, if you notice any strange odors or sparks coming from your breaker, it may be time to replace it. Replacing your breaker box can seem intimidating, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be done relatively quickly and painlessly. This article outlines the steps and methods for replacing a home breaker box so that you can make sure your family stays safe.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials

The first step in replacing a home breaker box is to gather all of the necessary materials. In addition to the new breaker box, you will need screwdrivers, a wire stripper and cutter, wire nuts (or other types of connectors), and a voltage tester. It is also advisable to have a non-contact voltage tester with you, as this will ensure the power is off in the area where you are working. Additionally, you may want to have a flashlight handy to help you see any small details.

Step 2: Shut Off the Power

Once you have gathered all of the necessary materials, the next step is to shut off the power to the area where you will be working. Make sure to double check the breaker box to make sure that the power is off. If you are not sure, use the voltage tester to check for any voltage. Do not proceed until you are certain that there is no voltage coming from the area.

Step 3: Remove the Old Breaker Box

Once the power is off, the next step is to remove the old breaker box. Before doing so, make sure to take pictures of the existing wiring for future reference. After that, turn off all of the branch circuit breakers in the box and then unscrew the cover plate to reveal the wiring. Disconnect the wires one at a time, making sure to label each one clearly before disconnecting.

Step 4: Install the New Breaker Box

Now that the old box has been removed, you can begin to install the new breaker box. Depending on the type of box you have purchased, the installation instructions may vary slightly. However, generally speaking, after checking the new box for any signs of damage or missing pieces, use the screws that came with it to attach the box to wall studs. Once installed, connect the neutral, ground, and hot conductors to their respective terminals.

Step 5: Connect the Branch Circuit Breakers

The final step in replacing the breaker box is to connect the branch circuit breakers. Start by inspecting the wiring and making sure that there is no visible damage or corrosion. Then, use the screws or connectors provided to secure the wiring to the respective terminals on the breaker. Use an approved connector to join the wires together if necessary, and then install the branch circuit breakers. Finally, reattach the cover plate and turn the power back on.

Replacing a home breaker box can seem intimidating at first, but with the right guidance and materials it can be done relatively quickly and painlessly. Following the steps outlined in this article should help you easily replace your home breaker box and make sure your family stays safe.

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