We know the similarities between circuit breakers and fuses, they are both used to protect us from fluctuations in electrical current (overload or short circuit) by cutting off the power. There have been enough scenes in movies and cartoons about the power going out and the reason being a blown fuse or the lights turning back on because someone switched the circuit breaker for us to get the picture. Circuit breakers come in different forms, the smallest one is the miniature circuit breaker or MCB. When you think about what to use for your home, you may opt to use either but first check which one is more compatible in terms of how you maintain your appliances and other electrical installations.
The MCB
The MCB is more commonly used these days in homes and smaller establishments. Like any other circuit breaker, it is made for multiple-use devices. When it detects a fault and cuts off the power, you have to go and manually set it again. In that way, it works as a switch and fuse. The benefit of an MCB is that, compared to a fuse, it has a higher threshold for amps. It is also made for long-term use, which justifies its higher price. It is made to be an investment.
The side effect of an MCB is that since it is for long-term use you have to pay attention to its maintenance. If parts are rusty or it doesn’t hold well because of water damage, you may have to get it checked, which costs money as well.
The Fuse
A fuse is a cylinder that is attached to a circuit with metal that melts at low heat. When it encounters a fault, the heat melts the metal and then it needs to be replaced. The benefit of using a fuse is that it is low cost because it is just a part of a greater whole. At the same time, it forces you to manually check and have a better idea about the problems that happened in the equipment. The side effect is that while it is cheap, the expenses add up since it is a one-time use only device.
If you are not likely to use a lot of electricity and you aren’t ready to invest a lot of money in a circuit breaker, then a traditional fuse is fine. Sometimes paying in small increments is easier than having one bulk spend. However, if you have more appliances, and you are financially capable, a miniature circuit breaker might be best. It has a better chance of protecting your overall system, especially when you have multiple gadgets and appliances at home.
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