How to Identify the Circuit Breaker You Need Before Buying

When a circuit breaker needs to be replaced, finding another breaker with the same amperage isn't necessarily enough.

Circuit breakers are designed for specific electrical equipment and applications. Using the correct replacement is important for compatibility and electrical safety.

If you're contacting a circuit breaker supplier, having the right information ready can also make finding your breaker much faster.

1. Find the Manufacturer

Start by identifying the manufacturer of the existing breaker and electrical equipment.

The manufacturer's name is typically printed directly on the breaker.

Depending on the equipment, you may encounter manufacturers and product lines from companies such as:

• Square D
• Siemens
• Eaton
• Cutler-Hammer
• General Electric (GE)
• Westinghouse
• Federal Pacific
• ITE
• Murray

Older electrical systems may contain breakers that are no longer commonly stocked by traditional retailers.

2. Locate the Model or Catalog Number

One of the most useful pieces of information when searching for a replacement circuit breaker is the model or catalog number.

Look carefully at the front and sides of the existing breaker for identifying numbers or letters.

If you're contacting Breaker Suppliers, sending this information can help narrow down the search significantly.

3. Check the Amperage

Next, determine the amperage rating.

Examples include:

• 15 Amp
• 20 Amp
• 30 Amp
• 40 Amp
• 50 Amp
• 60 Amp
• 100 Amp
• 200 Amp

Larger commercial and industrial equipment may require breakers with significantly higher amperage ratings.

4. Determine the Number of Poles

Circuit breakers can have different pole configurations, including:

Single-Pole Breakers – Commonly used for certain residential circuits.

Double-Pole Breakers – Frequently used for higher-voltage equipment and appliances.

Three-Pole Breakers – Common in commercial and industrial three-phase electrical systems.

Make sure the replacement breaker matches the requirements of the electrical system and equipment.

5. Check the Voltage Rating

The voltage rating is another important specification.

Commercial and industrial electrical systems can have different requirements than typical residential systems, making it especially important to verify all breaker specifications before purchasing.

6. Take Clear Photos

If you're having trouble identifying a circuit breaker, take several clear photographs.

Photograph:

• The front of the breaker
• Manufacturer label
• Catalog/model number
• Side labels
• Electrical panel information
• Any other identifying numbers

Clear photographs can help a breaker supplier determine what equipment you're working with.

Need Help Finding a Circuit Breaker?

Breaker Suppliers helps contractors, electricians, businesses, property managers, and other customers locate circuit breakers and electrical equipment.

We serve customers throughout Bethlehem, Allentown, Easton, the Lehigh Valley, and surrounding Pennsylvania areas.

If you're searching for a specific breaker, contact us with the manufacturer, model number, amperage, pole configuration, and photos.

Contact Breaker Suppliers today and let us help you find the breaker you're looking for.

Electrical equipment should be selected and installed by qualified professionals in accordance with applicable codes and manufacturer requirements.