What is Single Pole Breaker?
A Single Pole Breaker is a type of circuit breaker commonly found in residential electrical panels. It is designed to protect a single hot wire and typically handles 120 volts with an amperage rating of 15 to 20 amps. When a circuit experiences an overload or short circuit, the single pole breaker trips to interrupt the flow of electricity, preventing damage to wiring and reducing fire risk.
In residential applications, single pole breakers are used to control and protect standard household outlets, lights, and small appliances. Because they only require one slot in the breaker panel, they are efficient and space-saving. Understanding how and when to use a single pole breaker is essential for maintaining a safe and effective electrical system, particularly when upgrading, troubleshooting, or adding new circuits in your home.