One of the most common problems with circuit breakers is burnout. This can happen for various reasons, and in many cases it's possible to prevent it. With the presence of a Residual Current Device (RCD), other appliances receive greater protection in case of overload in the electrical installations.

For this reason, it's important to know what situations can result in damage to the circuit breaker and what can be done to prevent it. Remember that the presence of the device is fundamental for the protection of people who live in or pass through the area. Keep reading to learn how to act preventively.

What is the importance of a residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) in electrical installations?

First of all, it's important to remember the function of the residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) in electrical installations. The device is coupled to a thermomagnetic circuit breaker to protect the circuit conductors against overloads and short circuits. In the case of people, the device prevents electric shocks caused by direct or indirect contact.

The importance of the residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) is confirmed by NBR 5410, which points to the need for system protection against overvoltages. For this reason, people, animals, and property must be protected against the harmful consequences of events that may result in overloads.

From this perspective, the residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) prevents overload from causing abnormal heating and, consequently, a short circuit. When the device detects one of these occurrences, it disconnects or interrupts the flow of electrical current in the circuits.

How can you tell if a circuit breaker is burned out?

One of the signs that a circuit breaker has burned out is when the appliance is switched on, but no power is being transmitted. This situation also occurs in cases of faulty wiring or broken wires.

The most common way to check if a device is burned out is to use a multimeter or clamp meter. First of all, turn off the main circuit breaker or unplug the appliance from the electrical outlet.

Next, take the tool and select the "continuity test" scale, touching the tips together until you hear a sound similar to a "beep".

The next step is to set the circuit breaker and touch one end to the input screw of the device and the other end to the output screw. If you hear the noise described earlier, this means the device is working properly.

How to prevent the circuit breaker from burning out?

In most cases, users are unaware that they are taking incorrect actions that could damage the electrical grid. However, some seemingly simple solutions can help extend the lifespan of circuit breakers. Find out what they are!

• System overload: This happens more frequently in older installations or in situations where several appliances are plugged in and consuming energy. For this reason, avoid plugging them all in at the same time and also avoid excessive use of power strips.
• Installation problems: It can happen that the circuit breaker is installed incorrectly, the wiring is loose, or it needs more robust insulation. In order to avoid these types of situations, hire a professional to ensure the connection is made correctly and safely.
• Electric showers: These appliances, major culprits in electrical installations, can cause the circuit breaker to trip. This happens when the shower is left on for a long time, especially at the maximum winter temperature.

In these cases, the repair is done by removing the melted part of the wire and reconnecting it to the circuit. However, if you are not familiar with doing this, it is best to call a professional electrician.

As you can see, the residual current circuit breaker (RCCB) protects electrical installations and, consequently, the other circuit breakers in the network. Another important function of this device is to identify current leakage in the circuits. Therefore, the presence of this device in the residential or commercial electrical panel is essential.

Finally, we emphasize that circuit breakers are selected to meet the needs of different types of circuits. Therefore, the main factors to be evaluated are the type of network, the cables used in the circuits, and the equipment to be protected.

Source: ABB (https://loja.br.abb.com/blog/post/como-saber-se-o-disjuntor-esta-queimado)