Fuses
As opposed to circuit breakers, fuses have advantages when in use at your home. Fuses are cheaper and much easier to install than a circuit breaker. When a fuse is tripped, it must be replaced rather than simply being reset so you are more likely to find the real cause of the problem.
Fuses carry a current rating as well as a voltage rating. The voltage rating is maximum circuit voltage that the fuse can be used for. However, safety should be observed when changing fuses and turning the power off to the building is perhaps the safest way to do so.
One of the first fuses used was by Thomas Edison when he designed the first electrical power system that could be distributed. Reports for the time indicate that Edison's installation was protected from tampering by critically placed fuses.
Find the fuses for your home or shop by reading the articles below.
Fuse Terms
In electronics and electrical engineering, a fuse (short for “fusible link”) protects your system from overcurrents. Learn more about this little workhorse and how it protects your home and family.
All About Fuses
Learn more about concepts and terminology regarding fuses and household electrical systems. Develop a better understanding of how fuses work in your home: what they do, how they function, and why you need them.