What is the Lifespan of a Circuit Breaker?
Residential 120/240 Volt
This question is often asked by those who are looking to buy a new panel or re-wiring their home or office. You may be wondering how long these devices will last and what they can do in case something goes wrong with one, but we’re here today just as much about answering your concerns! So first off: circuit breakers typically live anywhere between 20-30 years before needing replacement (although this varies depending on usage). They also come packed full of features like wide ranges surge protection which helps avoid fried electronics; double insulation so there’s no chance either gets shocked apart during an electric storm etc.
Arc Fault and Ground Fault Circuit Breakers
The lifespan of Arc Fault and Ground Fault Breakers will vary depending on where they are located and how often that particular location causes tripping of the Circuit Breakers. Humid areas like pools or near chemical storage should be avoided at all costs because they’re especially destructive to mechanical devices such as breakers!
Arc Fault and Combination breakers are for indoors by code in specific areas. They are so sensitive, it is common to have problems. This can be from a defective breaker or a fault. Ground fault are commonly used outdoors. If they are subject to moicture, they will trip.
240 and 480 Volt Industrial Breakers
Molded case circuit breakers can last up to 30 years with proper care and maintenance. If you exercise the Circuit Breaker By turning it off and on yearly it will help ensure your mechanism remains operable in addition to regular inspection for signs that may indicate need at an early time like wear or physical damage
The average life expectancy rate among these types is about 30 Years but this varies depending on environment conditions which might lead you know sooner than later if something goes wrong
This information is is based on statistics from mustiple sources such as Schneider Electric Stating 20 to 30 yeard. ABB states an excess of 20 years. Siemens states 20 years to forever.
Opinion From JRL Electric Supply Inc.
Having been in business since 1985, Specializing in the sale of Circuit Breakers, People with older homes utilizing Challenger, Federal Pacific, and Zinsco still replace circuit breakers as needed for panels that ar over 50 years old. We still see in service determined by the requests we have for Obsolete items also are over 50 years old..
The location and moisture levels can shorten the lifespan also