Electrical Safety—The Checklist : Fuses

Before You Plug Into Electricity, Plug Into Electrical Safety—The Checklist

Fuses

Replacing a correct size fuse with a larger size fuse can present a serious fire hazard. Doing so will allow excessive current to flow and pos­sibly overload the outlet and the house wiring to the point that a fire can begin.

• Be certain that correct-size fuses are used (if you do not know the correct sizes, have a qualified, licensed electrician identify and label the sizes to be used).

NOTE: Fuses should be rated according to the wire that makes up the branch circuit, not the connected load. Most of the screw-based fuses used should be 15 amperes. Ensure that all fuses rated higher than 15 amperes are compatible with the branch circuit wiring.


Edison-base/S-type Fuses

Consumers sometimes replace a fuse that re­peatedly “blows” with a higher ampere rated fuse. Although the new fuse may not open, it also may not protect the branch circuit. Do­ing so masks the real problem of too high a demand being placed on the circuit. The fuse will not open at the appropriate load for that circuit.


Instead of using an inappropriate fuse, take something off the circuit to bring the de­mand to an appropriate level.

• To prevent future installation of fuses that allow currents too high for your wiring, your fuse panel should be converted to S-type sockets that accept only fuses of the correct amperage rating. If you have Edison-base fuse sockets, have them fitted with the S-type socket inserts.

If fuses continue to “blow,” keep track of which branch circuits are affected and which appliances are in use when the power outage occurs. Consult a qualified, licensed electri­cian to correct the problem.