What Happens When a Fuse Blows: Troubleshooting and Prevention Guide

by Peter September 1, 2024

written by Peter September 1, 2024

What Happens When a Fuse Blows

What is a Blown Fuse?

A fuse is a safety device that protects electrical circuits from overcurrent and short circuits. When too much current flows through a fuse, the thin metal ribbon inside the fuse melts, breaking the circuit and preventing damage to the electrical system.

Types of Fuses

There are two main types of fuses:

Screw-in fuses: These fuses are typically used in older homes and are screwed into a fuse panel.
Cartridge fuses: These fuses are used in newer homes and are inserted into a fuse block.

Sizing of Fuses

Fuses are sized to match the gauge of the circuit wires. This prevents the circuit wires from drawing more power than they can handle. The correct fuse size for a given circuit wire gauge is:

14-gauge or larger: 15-amp fuse
12-gauge or larger: 20-amp fuse
10-gauge or larger: 30-amp fuse

Common Causes of Blown Fuses

Overload: An overload occurs when too many lights or appliances are drawing power from the same circuit.
Short circuit: A short circuit occurs when a hot wire touches a neutral wire or a ground wire, creating a low-resistance path for current to flow.

Other Causes of Blown Fuses

Ground faults: A ground fault occurs when electrical current flows directly to the ground or a grounded part of the system.
Arc faults: Arc faults occur when wires and terminals don’t make good contact, causing an electrical arc.
Circuit issue: A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker can also be caused by a problem with the circuit itself, such as a surge or a loose connection.
Damaged outlet or wiring: Faulty wiring or a damaged outlet can create a power surge that can blow a fuse.

How to Identify a Blown Fuse

Visual inspection: Examine the fuse for a melted metal ribbon or a metallic smear on the inside of the glass tube.
Multimeter: Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the fuse. A reading of near 0 indicates a good fuse, while a reading of OL (over-limit) indicates a blown fuse.

How to Replace a Blown Fuse

Turn off the power at the fuse box.
Pull the main fuse block out of the panel to disconnect the power.
Twist the blown fuse out of the socket or use a fuse puller to remove it.
Screw or push in a new fuse of the same size, amperage, and type.
Insert the main fuse block into the designated socket and apply firm pressure to fit securely.
Close the panel door and check if this has restored power to the problem area.

When to Call a Professional

If a fuse blows repeatedly, it is important to call a licensed electrician to identify the underlying issue. This could indicate a problem with the electrical system that requires professional repair.

Tips for Preventing Blown Fuses

Avoid overloading circuits by plugging too many appliances into the same outlet.
Use surge protectors to protect sensitive electronics from power surges.
Inspect electrical cords and outlets regularly for damage.
Have your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician every few years.

Additional Information

What are the benefits of using circuit breakers instead of fuses? Circuit breakers can be reset, while fuses must be replaced. Circuit breakers also provide better protection against overloads and short circuits.
How can you troubleshoot a blown fuse without calling an electrician? Unplug all appliances and fixtures on the affected circuit. Turn off the power to the fuse box and identify the blown fuse. Replace the blown fuse and turn the power back on. If the fuse blows again, there is likely a problem with the circuit wiring and you should call an electrician.
What are the different types of fuses and which one is right for my home? Screw-in fuses are used in older homes, while cartridge fuses are used in newer homes. The type of fuse you need depends on the type of fuse panel you have.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.