Electric Circuit Breaker Maintenance

Most homes now have an electric service panel to distribute electricity to the home.  The purpose of circuit breakers in the panel are to detect a current overload, and shut the circuit off (break the circuit) to prevent overheating and fire. Current overload is generally caused by a short circuit (faulty wiring, outlet, or appliance), or too many appliances being used on the same circuit at the same time.  Circuit breakers should be maintained yearly by "cycling" each breaker off and on five(5) times.  (Be sure that sensative electronic equipment and computers or turned off during this process.)  This will keep the movable parts within the circuit breaker "free" so it may operate correctly when called upon to do so by a current overdraw.  The breaker should cycle freely and crisply.  It is also good to check for signs of overheating in the panel itself by placing your hand on the breakers feeling for excess heat, (breakers in use may normally be warm) and also looking for any discoloration on the surface of the breakers or panel box itself, that may indicate overheating.  Do not remove the front panel of the box itself, there is a risk of electrocution.  If you find any abnormalities, call a licensed electrician immediately to check and correct the situation.  A circuit breaker that is not working properly is a potential fire hazard.