Are Westinghouse Breakers Still Used In California Today?

Considering if Westinghouse Breakers are still prevalent in California today? You’re not the only one. Our research into this confirmed that indeed, they’re still in use. This article will guide you through their current usage and offer assistance with the occasional challenging task of locating replacements or resolving compatibility issues.

Let’s proceed for some straightforward answers.

Key Takeaways

• Westinghouse breakers are still common in California for controlling electricity and keeping homes safe.
• Southland Electric offers hard-to-find parts for old Westinghouse models, helping keep older systems working well.
• Finding the right replacement for a discontinued breaker can be tough, but places like Relectric and searching online for specific terms can help.
• Some Cutler Hammer products might work as substitutes for Westinghouse breakers.
• Matching an old breaker with new ones involves checking size, voltage, and safety features to prevent problems.

Current Usage of Westinghouse Breakers in California

We know for sure, Westinghouse circuit breakers still have a spot in California’s electrical setups. Surprisingly, many homes and buildings rely on these durable devices for safety against electrical surges.

They manage electricity flow, stop short circuits, and prevent shock hazards efficiently.

Southland Electric plays a big role here. They offer hard-to-find Westinghouse parts and accessories. This means even discontinued models are not left behind. For people who own older systems, this is great news.

Keeping their existing electrical setup safe and functional becomes much easier.

Westinghouse circuit breakers continue to protect Californian homes from electrical mishaps.

Challenges with Discontinued Westinghouse Breakers

Finding replacements for old Westinghouse breakers is tough. Old models don’t always match new systems, causing compatibility problems.

Finding replacements

We know getting the right replacements for Westinghouse breakers in California is key. Here are ways to find them:

1. Check Southland Electric. They have Westinghouse breakers that aren’t made anymore.
2. Visit Relectric. They sell and help with these breakers and parts. Relectric is open from 8 AM to 8 PM EST, making it easy for those on the west coast.
3. Look for Cutler Hammer products. Some can work instead of Westinghouse ones.
4. Search for “molded case circuit breaker” online. You’ll see options that fit different setups.
5. Ask experts at electric stores in your area. They often know what works best locally.

This helps solve compatibility issues too.

Next, we’ll talk about dealing with these issues directly.

Compatibility issues

Matching old Westinghouse breakers with new ones is tough. Different models like E Frame, F Frame, and J Frame have unique sizes and trip units. For example, replacing an EH1020 requires finding a single pole breaker that fits the same space and works correctly.

This gets harder with special types like vacuum circuit breakers or motor circuit protectors. We need to ensure the new breaker can handle the same electrical load without causing safety issues.

We also face problems when we try to fit Westinghouse breakers into panels not made by them, such as Square D or GE panels. Since each company makes their panelboards slightly differently, a Westinghouse breaker might not clip in right or could be unsafe if forced in.

It’s vital to choose a replacement that matches perfectly in size, voltage rating, and interrupting capacity to avoid dangerous situations like electrical fires or equipment damage.

Top Circuit Breakers of 2024 Reviewed

After careful and detailed scrutiny, we’ve selected four standout products from Westinghouse and Eaton based on their popular demand, advanced features, and strong user ratings. This assortment covers a variety of needs, from homes safeguarding against electrical hazards to industries requiring more robust protection systems.

The chosen models range in price from $19.99 to $81, making them accessible options for diverse budgets without compromising on quality. We kick off with the Westinghouse UL 489 AC Miniature Circuit Breaker, a delicate balance of price and performance at $33.99. This is followed by the bulk offering of Eaton’s WESTINGHOUSE BR230, a double-pole breaker priced affordably at $81 for a package of five units. Another pick, the Westinghouse UL 489 AC Miniature Circuit Breaker (15 Amp), showcases its high-grade capability for a reasonable $49.99. Finally, the Westinghouse EHB1020, though modestly priced at $19.99, holds its own with a solid single-pole design catering to specific breaker needs.

The selection process was inspired by a desire to cater to a broad audience, ensuring that each product not only meets but exceeds the usual expectations of durability, performance, and safety. These circuit breakers, celebrated for their innovative features and reliability, represent the best blend of function and affordability in today’s market. Whether you’re a professional electrician, a homeowner, or someone with an interest in electrical engineering, these products are selected to ensure satisfaction and security.

Conclusion

Yes, Westinghouse breakers are still in use across California. Many places need them for their systems to work well. Companies like Southland Electric keep a big stock of these older models ready for when people need them.

This includes all sorts of shapes and sizes, from E Frame to Type RE. If you’re looking for parts or help with your electrical setup, these breakers remain a solid choice. They make sure power flows safely where it needs to go.