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In older homes, fuses protect the wiring and help prevent electrical fires when there's an overload to a circuit. If this happens, the flow of electricity in the circuit is cut off. You then remove the blown fuse and replace it with a new one of the same size. In newer homes, circuit breakers do the same thing. If the circuit has more current flowing through it than it can handle safely, the breaker automatically switches off the electricity.

These are photos of older wiring devices that could be undersized and very hazardous.

Homes more than 40 years old are three times more likely to catch on fire from electrical causes than homes 11 to 20 years old. That’s because older wiring may not have the capacity to safely handle newer appliances and equipment and may not incorporate updated safety features.

The advantage of a circuit breaker over a fuse is that breakers can then be switched back on, while a (blown) fuse has to be replaced. If you still have a fuse box, it may be time to upgrade to a breaker panel. Given the electrical needs in an average household, your electrical system may be outdated and undersized, so the above photos are a few things to remember and look for:

These are photos of upgraded services with the safer circuit breaker.

Upgrading an electrical service is definitely a job for the professional. Contact us for a guaranteed price before the job is done. The upgrade will be safer and more convenient. You won't have to stock up on fuses. It could be more than a thousand dollars to give your electrical panel a spark and upgrade from fuses to breakers. For ease and safety, it'll be well worth the price.