Circuit breakers are essential electrical safety devices found in nearly every home and business in Torrance, CA. They monitor the flow of electricity and trip (switch off) when there is a short circuit or overload to prevent damage, fire, and injury. As circuit breakers age and trip repeatedly, the internal components degrade causing nuisance tripping or failure to trip when needed. This article will cover when to call an electrician for circuit breaker installation and repairs in Torrance.

When to Install New Circuit Breakers

Some signs that indicate you need new circuit breaker installation:

• Frequent tripping of a circuit breaker from normal loads. This happens when a circuit breaker can no longer handle the rated load.
• The lights dim or appliances run slowly indicating low voltage when a circuit is in use. Worn contacts may cause unwanted resistance.
• Buzzing or warm feeling coming from the circuit breaker box. This could indicate arcing or loose connections.
• Visible signs of burns, cracks, or damage to the circuit breaker.
• Upgrading the electrical panel to add more circuits requires new breakers.
• Converting two-prong outlets to grounded three-prong outlets requires GFCI or AFCI circuit breakers.

If you notice any of these issues, have an electrician inspect and replace aging circuit breakers. Installing new breakers restores full electrical flow and reliability.

Why Circuit Breaker Repair is Needed

Circuit breakers are mechanical devices and the components wear out over years of tripping on and off. Here are some signs your circuit breakers need professional repairs:

• Breaker doesn’t stay in the “On” position or trips when it shouldn’t. This could indicate worn out internal components.
• Breaker doesn’t trip when overloaded. The trip mechanism may be broken causing a safety risk.
• Discolored contacts or melted plastic due to overheating. This causes high resistance and voltage drop.
• Rust, corrosion, or dirt buildup on contacts interfering with connections.
• Hard to reset or turn the switch On or Off. Stiffness indicates internal wear.
• Unusual humming or buzzing coming from the breaker. This indicates arcing.
• Evidence of moisture or water leaks in the circuit breaker box.

Minor repairs like cleaning or tightening connections may temporarily fix the problem. However, the best solution is to replace old or damaged circuit breakers.

Hiring a Licensed Electrician

Torrance, CA homeowners should only hire a licensed electrician for circuit breaker installation and repairs. Warning signs like frequent tripping, buzzing breakers, or flickering lights indicate potentially serious problems. Unqualified persons attempting repairs often lead to electrical fires or shock.

Check reviews and verify their Torrance city electrical license before hiring an electrician. Get at least 3 quotes to compare pricing. Be wary of unbelievably low bids which could indicate cut corners or lack of experience. A true professional will explain what needs repair, provide options, and outline costs upfront.

Key things to look for in the right electrician:

• Excellent ratings and reviews from past customers
• Proof of Torrance electrical license and insurance
• Member of the International Electrical Contractors Association (IECA)
• Specializes in residential electrical work
• Provides detailed quotes with line items, not just a lump sum price
• Uses high-quality brand breakers (not cheaper knockoffs)

Conclusion/Key Takeaways:

• Circuit breakers are critical safety devices that degrade over time and require replacement or repairs
• Signs your circuit breakers need replacement include nuisance tripping, slow appliances, dimming lights, buzzing noises, damage, and panel upgrades
• Only use a licensed electrician for installation and repairs – avoid DIY
• Check electrician reviews, licensing, experience, materials they use, and get multiple quotes
• New breakers restore safe electrical flow and reliability to your home

Following proper circuit breaker maintenance keeps your family protected and avoids electrical emergencies. Contact a qualified Torrance electrician to inspect your breaker box and repair any outdated or defective breakers.