Fuses to Beakers‏

Q: How hard is it to change an old electric box that uses fuses into a new electrical panel using circuit breakers? Can just anyone do this or is there instructions in doing it? Or is an electrician needed?

A: In order to change out your old fuse box to a new breaker box, you have to be able to turn off the power to the old box. In most cases there should be a main switch located close to the fuse box that does this.

Be aware that changing the fuse box to a circuit breaker box does NOT provide you with more power. The amount of power you have is subject to the electrical service provided by your electrical utility. If you need more power to your home you will definitely require an electrician, as a permit will have to be obtained.

You can learn more about converting a fuse box to a breaker box by following the link.

Link

Change Circuit Breaker Or Split Power?

Q: How do I determine if I can safely upgrade a 15amp circuit breaker to 20amp without overloading the wires?

I’m almost done moving our home office to a corner of the house that has only one utility box to a 15amp circuit breaker. The total amperage for everything (fax, computer, etc.), being set up is 22-25amp (way too much for that breaker and outlets, of course).

Presently, there are 15amp breakers across the board. I would like to upgrade two breakers to 20amp to split the power and install two outlets on that same wall to distribute the power in a safer way.

A: You cannot change the tripping amperage of the breaker. 14-gauge wire is for a maximum of 15 amps. 12-gauge wire is needed for a 20-amp breaker.

Link