Safety Switch vs Circuit Breaker – What’s The Difference?

ANE Electrical Solutions · Wollongong electricians

When you’re dealing with electrical systems, safety is the utmost priority. After all, electricity can pose a serious risk to your home or health if you don’t have the right protections in place. Learn more about the difference between a safety switch and a circuit breaker, and why these differences matter when working with electrical systems.

What Is A Safety Switch?

A safety switch is a component in an electrical system that detects imbalances and inconsistencies in the live and neutral wires, working out when a current is travelling through something it shouldn’t be. Upon the detection of an inconsistency, a safety switch turns the electricity supply off within 0.03 seconds, severely reducing the risk of injury from an electric shock.

What Is A Circuit Breaker?

A circuit breaker, or a fuse, is a part of an electrical circuit that cuts the power when it detects an abnormally high current. Circuit breakers protect the rest of the components in an electrical circuit, as electrical components receiving a current that is too high can become severely damaged. The majority of fuses require manual switching on after the initial break.

Similarities And Differences

Some of the main similarities and differences between a safety switch and a circuit breaker include:

Function

The main function of the two devices is effectively the same. Both are designed to protect from electrical damage by shutting down the system that they are working in. The slight difference in the way that the two products function is that a circuit breaker specifically focuses on currents that are too high, whereas a safety switch’s trigger comes when there is any significant variance in the level of current.

Protection

One of the fundamental differences between the two components is what they are protecting. A circuit breaker is protecting electronic goods and other components throughout a circuit, reducing the risk of damage caused by currents that are too high. A safety switch, meanwhile, focuses on protecting people or any other external parties, stopping the circuit if there is any change to the level of current, hence outside interference in the circuit.

Users

The people that use these devices represent another significant difference. Almost every home has circuit breakers, or fuses, that protect the property from damaged electrical goods or even electrical fires. On the other hand, safety switches are primarily used by electricians, to protect themselves from any risk whilst carrying out their work.

Try ANE Electrical Solutions

If you’re looking for electrician services you can trust, get in touch with the ANE Electrical Solutions team today. Our team offers efficient and prompt services in Wollongong and all across the South Coast region. Talk to one of our friendly experts today to find out more.

TAGS: CIRCUIT BREAKER, CIRCUIT BREAKER VS SAFETY SWITCH, ELECTRICAL, SAFETY SWITCH

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