Circuit breakers will occasionally fail or become weak and trip without cause. When this happens the breaker will need to be replaced. Regardless of the reason a new circuit breaker is needed or desired, the process of exchanging the existing breaker for a new one remains the same. Please note, great care needs to be taken when working in the circuit breaker panel.

The Breaker Panel

The main breaker panel may be located on the outside of your house, or in an interior closet or pantry. It should be rectangular in shape and gray in color. In order to change out a breaker you will need to remove the breaker box cover. This is the door and the surrounding area, normally held in place by four screws. Once the cover is removed the wiring will be exposed and great care should be taken not to touch anything. In the top center of the panel there should be a main disconnect switch, you will turn this off before continuing. If uncertain which is the main disconnect, look for the power company's line coming into the box, these two wires will be connected to the main disconnect. Safety first: turn off the power.

Taking Out The Breaker

Use a circuit tester to be certain the power is off. Always remember the power is not turned off to the power company's line and you should not touch anything in the area of their line. Find the breaker which needs to be removed and using your thumb and forefinger, push it toward the outside of the breaker panel. It should snap out and be loose in your hand except for the black wire held in place by a single terminal screw. Remove the black wire and attach it to the new breaker. Clip the two metal clips under the outside rail and push the breaker back into place. It should snap into place and be flush with all the other breakers in the panel.

Techincal Notes

You must be aware all circuit breakers are not constructed alike and are not always interchangable. Check the breaker you currently have and make certain the replacement is either the same brand, such as Square D or is compatible with your breaker panel. Turn the main disconnect back on, then carefully replace the box cover. Once the cover is in place turn the new breaker on and check to make certain power has been restored to all circuits and areas of the home.

Source:

Relectric.com: Cicruit Breaker Replacement