Standard Circuit Breakers

Standard circuit breakers protect everyday circuits from overloads and short circuits. Single-pole breakers (120V) serve most lights and outlets; double-pole breakers (240V) feed larger loads like dryers, ranges, water heaters and A/C units.

The most important rule: match your panel. Breakers are made for specific panel types and are not interchangeable between brands or lines:

• Square D QO (3/4-inch) or Homeline (1-inch)
• Eaton BR (1-inch) or CH (3/4-inch)
• Siemens Type QP (Q115, Q120, Q230 and more)
• GE Type THQL

Sizing: the amp rating must match the wire and the load, for example 15 amp on 14 AWG copper and 20 amp on 12 AWG copper. When replacing a breaker, use the same amp rating as the original.

Shop by size: 15 amp, 20 amp, 30 amp, 40 amp, 60 amp, 100 amp and 200 amp breakers.

Many circuits now call for arc fault or ground fault (GFCI) breakers instead of standard ones.

For commercial panelboards, switchboards and enclosures, see our molded case circuit breakers.