If everything’s working topnotch, as it should, you can now put the cover back in place. Please watch this video to learn a neat way to do this. Is the breaker showing signs of trouble? You may want to test it with a voltage meter to figure out why it’s tripping. With the wiring and new breaker installed properly, you can now turn on the power. Restart the power then replace the cover. In most cases, I only have to insert it sideways then apply a bit of pressure to make sure it goes in right. The video above shows a good demonstration of it already. Once you’ve removed the former breaker, set the 50-amp breaker in place.Īssuming you already have the right-sized wires in place, putting in the new breaker shouldn’t be a hassle. There might still be voltage running to the main breaker even after you’ve switched off the power so always exercise caution! 3. Once it’s loose you can position it on the panel’s side first.ĭon’t compromise on your safety! I’d even recommend you check all the hot wires first before removing anything. Unscrew all the screws setting them in place then carefully pull their wire. ![]() Once that’s done, find and confirm the circuit breaker you want to replace by using the flashlight. ![]() You confirm if there’s still power by using the voltage tester. You can’t skip turning off power to the main breaker to ensure safety. Kill the power to the main breaker then take off the 30-amp breaker. Handle each screw carefully and be sure to support the panel’s cover so it won’t end up dropping once you’ve taken out the last screw. Put on your rubber gloves then use the screwdriver to unscrew all the screws that set the cover in place. an 8-gauge one), then you can proceed to the next step of replacing your old 30-amp breaker by following these steps: How to Upgrade from a 30-Amp Breaker to a 50-Amp One However, if it happens that you already have the correct wiring in place (i.e. You may need demolishing tools like a hammer to expose the entire wiring run that needs to be replaced. Also, this doesn’t take into account instances when wires are covered by sheetrock. ![]() This doesn’t take into consideration how long the wire run will be. A 30-amp breaker requires a 10-gauge wire, while a 50-amp one will need an 8-gauge one. To know the correct wire gauge, you can’t depart from local codes. To safely convert 30 amp to 50 amp breakers, the circuits have to be able to support the higher load. This is an advanced job best left to a professional electrician unless you decide to change only the breaker, which is never recommended as you’ll end up pairing it with the wrong wire. Since you’re making a significant jump from 30 amps to 50 amps, the wire sizes will definitely have to be changed.
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