A circuit breaker (or "automatic switch") is the heart of your electrical system. Its main task is to protect wiring from overload and short circuits, preventing potential fires. An incorrectly chosen breaker will either trip constantly or fail to work in a critical moment. Let's figure out how to make the right choice.
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RATED CURRENT (AMPERES, A)
This is the most important parameter. It indicates the current at which the breaker will not trip. A common mistake is to choose a breaker with "a margin," focusing on the power of household appliances. The correct way: the breaker's rating must match the cross-section of the cable it protects.
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For 1.5 mm² copper cable (lighting): a 10A breaker.
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For 2.5 mm² copper cable (outlets): a 16A breaker.
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For 4 mm² copper cable (high-power consumers like electric stoves): a 25A breaker.
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TRIPPING CHARACTERISTIC (TRIPPING CURVE)
This indicates how quickly the breaker will react to an overcurrent. For residential use, the following are suitable:
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"B" Characteristic: Rarely used, for circuits without large inrush currents (e.g., purely resistive loads).
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"C" Characteristic: The most popular option for apartments and houses. Suitable for protecting outlet groups and lighting where there are appliances with moderate inrush currents (refrigerator, washing machine, vacuum cleaner). In our range, these are popular models from Hager, ETI, and Legrand.
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NUMBER OF POLES
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Single-pole (1P): The standard solution for protecting the phase wire in a single-phase 220V network (lighting, outlets).
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Double-pole (2P): Simultaneously disconnects both phase and neutral. It is installed as the main input breaker for an apartment or on individual lines requiring complete disconnection (water heater, electric stove).
CONCLUSION
For a standard apartment, a combination of breakers is most often needed: a 2P main breaker (e.g., 32A or 40A), 1P 16A (C curve) for outlet groups, and 1P 10A (C curve) for lighting. By choosing products from trusted brands like Schneider Electric or Hager, you are investing in the safety of your home.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the specialists at our 175.com.ua store for a consultation!
