


What’s more, circuit breakers are designed to handle more electric current, which is why they operate with the load on.

On the other hand, isolators are operated manually. Once a circuit breaker detects an increase in current flow, it trips immediately without any commands. Isolators and circuit breakers can work together when the circuit breakers need maintenance.Ĭircuit breakers function automatically. They are useful when the load is on and off. They act as a shield to electrical damages due to excess current. On the other hand, a circuit breaker breaks electricity flow through a circuit when excess current passes through.

Isolators prevent the flow of current through a fraction of the electrical circuit when it is not safe to have current flow through, for example, during repair and maintenance. Some people confuse isolators and circuit breakers, and it is important to state that they are different devices with different functions, as discussed in the next section. Isolator switches are used for several appliances in the house, including kitchen tools, power grinds and other small appliances that require small amounts of electricity.Ī wall socket, for example, can be used as an isolator switch because it can be turned off to prevent the flow of electricity on a given circuit. With this switch, you do not have to interfere with the electrical supply of the whole house, simply because a small section requires the attention of an electrician. The main function of an isolator switch is to set aside electric circuits from the main power source to allow for repairs. This ensures that the fan does not become accidentally live and ensures continuous functionality of other fixtures because you can switch off the fan without switching off the lights. A bathroom fan requires a 3-pole isolation switch because it has three lines to be disconnected for repairs.
