Fuse box replacement
8/3/2016 at 4:51:02 PM
Dear TrustedPros,
In the condo that where I live, the electrical fuse box looks like its from the 1970's. Still works, but yesterday one of the fuse blew. I attempted to replace it with the correct fuse, a GP-15, then I saw a TD-15. Was wondering what the differences are?
Anyhow, got the GP15 fuse install it and a blue flash came suddenly and pop the fuse. I had to put in another GP-15 fuse and it went ok.
But first, I took out the first panel that had a handle because it says "remove when changing", so I did. That when the blue flash came. before I put in the other GP-15, I put back the panel, then i install the GP-15 and all went well.
1. What went wrong in the first place?
2. Do I need to update the fuse panel? and how much will it be.
3. Any help would be great, please I'll put the picture of the electrical fuse box so you could see it as well.
8/3/2016 at 6:36:55 PM
The flash you saw was power being reconnected to a source that is drawing a fair amount of current, or the aluminum bus bars housing the panel could be in need of repair or replacement. The panel has served its purpose and I highly recommend you get it replaced.
Call in a few Licensed Electrical Contractors registered with the ESA and get it replaced. A permit for this work from the ESA is a must and get the paperwork for your insurance and peace of mind it was done properly.
8/3/2016 at 7:12:54 PM
Paul,
I would recommend to replace the fuse panel to breakers.
From looking at the pictures you were replacing a split-circuit going to the counter outlets. In a lot of cases people don't cut the bridging when they change the plugs and fuses will blow to 220 circuit.
Best thing for you would be to call licensed electrician and get it checked out so you don't hurt yourself.
8/3/2016 at 8:46:02 PM
I think Mirek is right. I would bet that the receptacle was recently replaced (likely before you bought the condo) and the tab was not broken on the receptacle.
I have seen it a thousand times.
What the issue could be however is that you may have damaged the buss bar as Robert states. In that case there is little to do but make the panel replacement.
Cheers
John Kuehnl-Cadwell
Master Electrician
Datawise Solutions Inc
8/4/2016 at 9:04:17 PM
Thanks for the help guys!
Now its tripping when the microwave is on...!
Definitely, a new fuse box, please could you kindly tell me what are the costs for one, and I was wondering if home insurance/protection plan could cover the cost if it seems potentially essential recommended by a licence electrician and the condo property management?
8/4/2016 at 9:58:45 PM
Pretty sure there is no insurance and it is in your condo, so it is all your cost to cover. These jobs can range from $1000-$1500 to replace the panel to breakers.
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