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Option 1: Use a circuit breaker. The breaker is essentially a switch that will turn off the electricity in the event of a current overload fault occurring somewhere either in appliances connected to the circuit or to the circuit's own wiring. Option 2: Use a fuse. Will turn off the electricity in the event of a current overload. One downside is that fuses destroy themselves in order to cut-off the power, so you have to replace them. Another downside is that some of the simpler types of fuse are not as fast-acting as a circuit breaker so they can allow more damage to occur before they shut off the supply of current.

In reality, unlike a circuit breaker, a fuse is not really an "overload protection device" but a "device for opening a circuit which has a higher current subjected to it than it was designed to carry", such as a short circuit condition.

For example certain types of electric motor need to draw a high start-up current so a circuit feeding such a motor must be fused at up to 250% of the motor's rated running current or Full Load Amperage (FLA). So a motor could be in an overload state up to 200% over its FLA and still not blow the fuse. For more information about circuit protection devices see the answers to the Related Questions shown below.

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Related Questions

How can you prevent having an overloaded circuit?

The thing that prevents an overload is the fuse.


What is designed to open an overloaded circuit and prevent overheating?

A circuit breaker or a fuse.


The role of the circuit breaker is what?

to prevent a circuit from overloading if too much current flow safely interrupt the circuit if it becomes overloaded


What type of failure might blow the fuses?

A dead short to ground or an overloaded circuit.A dead short to ground or an overloaded circuit.


Which device designed to open an overloaded circuit and prevent overheating?

Fuses and circuit breakers are designed to open a circuit when an excess amount of current occurs, so as to break that flow of current.A circuit breaker or fuse.


Why would a computer wire melt?

Short in the circuit or the circuit was overloaded.


Why is the breaker tripping randomly?

The breaker may be tripping randomly due to an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, or a faulty breaker. It is important to investigate the cause to prevent potential electrical hazards.


Why would a circuit breaker trip and how can it be prevented?

A circuit breaker may trip due to an overload of electrical current or a short circuit. To prevent this, ensure that the circuit is not overloaded by using appropriate electrical devices and avoiding the use of too many appliances on the same circuit. Regular maintenance and inspection of the electrical system can also help prevent circuit breaker trips.


Why does my breaker keep tripping?

Your breaker may be tripping due to an overloaded circuit, a short circuit, or a ground fault. It is important to identify and address the underlying issue to prevent potential electrical hazards.


Why does the circuit breaker trip immediately?

A circuit breaker trips immediately when there is a sudden surge of electricity that exceeds the breaker's capacity to handle. This can be caused by a short circuit, overloaded circuit, or a faulty appliance. The breaker trips to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.


How to trip a circuit breaker in case of an electrical overload?

To trip a circuit breaker in case of an electrical overload, locate the circuit breaker panel in your home, identify the breaker that corresponds to the overloaded circuit, and switch it to the "off" position. This will cut off power to the circuit and prevent further damage.


Why does your circuit breaker trip when your heater comes on?

That circuit is overloaded. Call an electrician to fix it for you.