Although it sounds easy, mapping all the breakers in a service panel can take two people several hours. A great little device that simplifies this task is an electronic circuit breaker finder, which easily locates a circuit in a breaker box and makes this all a one-person job. This device works for either circuit breakers or fuses and is very easy to use.
Parts of a Circuit Breaker Finder
An electronic circuit breaker finder includes two parts: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter plugs into a household outlet (or light socket, using an adapter) for which you’re trying to identify the controlling circuit breaker or fuse. A faint electronic signal is sent through the circuit wires. At the breaker box, you use the electronic receiver that is paired with the transmitter. When the receiver passes over the circuit breaker that carries the electronic signal from the transmitter, the receiver rapidly beeps and flashes. It’s as simple as that.
How to Use a Circuit Breaker Finder
Buying vs. Renting
Circuit breaker finders typically cost $30 to $50, so it’s a relatively affordable tool that a serious DIYers may well want to add to their electrical tool kit. Circuit breaker finders often include a GFCI outlet analyzer, and this combined kit is a valuable addition to a DIYer’s electrical tool kit. After installing the battery, adjust the receiver for maximum sensitivity. With the model shown here, you simply rotate the receiver’s wheel back until it clicks and the LED lights up. After you have located the correct breaker or fuse, you can turn off the circuit by switching the breaker to the “off” position. The receiver will stop beeping. Return to the outlet where the transmitter is plugged in to check that the transmitter light is off, indicating the circuit is no longer energized. This confirms you have turned off the correct breaker. To use an adapter, turn off the light fixture at the wall switch, and remove one of the light bulbs on the fixture. Screw the adapter into the light bulb socket. Plug the transmitter into the adapter, and turn on the light switch. The transmitter will function just as if it were plugged into an outlet. Follow the same steps listed above for wall outlets to check for power, transmitter, and breaker. Keyless socket adapters are sold at hardware stores and home centers and cost less than $10. Often, one comes in the same kit as the circuit breaker finder. But if your goal is simply a one-time project to map your service panel, circuit breaker finders may be available for rental at home improvement centers or tool lease outlets. The daily charge for this kind of tool is usually $10 to $15.
Keeping a Circuit Breaker Finder in Good Condition
Make sure to turn off the tool after each use to avoid draining the battery. For long-term storage, it’s a good idea to remove the battery entirely to avoid leakage that can damage the circuitry. Store the tool in a dry location.
When to Replace a Circuit Breaker Finder
Properly maintained, a circuit breaker finder should last for many, many years, but misuse may damage the internal circuitry. If the tool refuses to work even with a new battery, it probably needs to be replaced. This is not a tool that can be affordably repaired.
