Best Way to Change an Electric Fuse

At one time fuses were the most popular means of circuit protection in homes. Electrical fuses are round and screw in. They are most often made of metal and glass. The glass part of the fuse allows you to check to see if it is blown. Below is the best method for changing an electric fuse.

Often when a light goes out or an appliance stops working it is because you have blown a fuse. In order to change the fuse, you will need a flashlight and a replacement fuse. You will need to go to your electric panel and open it up. If your fuse box is not labeled then you will have to look for the fuse that is blown. You will know which one it is that is blown because the glass will look cloudy. You might even notice that the tiny metal bar behind the glass is broken.

Turn the fuse counter-clockwise to unscrew it. Be careful. Even though this fuse is blown, there is still electricity going to the rest of the electric panel. Replace the fuse using another one that is the same amperage. Using a fuse that has a higher amperage can be a fire hazard. Screw the new fuse in clockwise. Make sure it is snug, but do not over tighten the fuse.

If the same fuse blows again, you need to call a licensed electrician to find out what is causing the fuse to blow. If a fuse is blown, then it is doing its job, it stops the electricity from going somewhere where there could potentially be a problem.