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Avoid Overloaded Electrical Circuits and House Fires
By Dave Rongey
Summary: Electrician Explains that Replacing a 20 amp fuse with a larger size will cause an overloaded circuit causing the wiring to become hot which could lead to a house fire. In a case such as this additional circuits need to be installed. |
How to Safely Replace Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Electrical Safety Question:
I have three window air conditioners and a refrigerator on same circuit. The 20 amp fuse keeps blowing. The Landlord says to use 30 or 40 amp fuse. Won't this cause wiring to get too hot and cause a house fire?
Thanks- Sally N.Hi Sally - Great Electrical Repair Question!
Yes Sally, you are correct and much wiser than your landlord!
Replacing the 20 amp fuse with a larger size will cause an overloaded circuit causing the wiring to become hot which could lead to a house fire. In a case such as this additional circuits need to be installedThe required power for the air conditioners should be identified to determine the size of a new circuit. While you're at it make sure you have smoke detectors that work. With a landlord like that you may need them!
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