MCB aren’t ordinary switches. Learn how they prevent overloads and short circuits, keeping your home and devices safe like a trusted guardian.
In most homes, an MCB board is installed near the electricity meter, but when the power goes out, we simply flip the switch back up without understanding why it tripped in the first place.
This safety system is present in every modern home, from brands like Havells, Legrand, Schneider, Anchor, etc., but there are two distinct reasons why it trips:
Types of MCB Protection
MCBs primarily protect against two types of electrical faults:
- Overload: When you run appliances like an AC, geyser, and heater all at once on the same socket or line, the MCB heats up and trips to prevent your house wiring from burning. It protects your wires.How MCB protects against overload:
- It uses a bimetallic strip that bends when heated by excess current.
- When the strip bends enough, it triggers the MCB to trip, cutting off electricity
- Short Circuit: When the phase and neutral wires come into contact or there is a fault in an appliance, the MCB trips instantly (in milliseconds) to prevent a fire.How MCB protects against short circuits:
- It uses an electromagnetic mechanism that reacts almost instantly to high current surges.
- The MCB trips in milliseconds, stopping the flow of current before any serious damage occurs.
This protects your entire house and valuables from burning down.
How MCB protects against short circuits
- It uses an electromagnetic mechanism that reacts almost instantly to high current surges.
- The MCB trips in milliseconds, stopping the flow of current before any serious damage occurs.
Important Note:
If the MCB is tripping repeatedly, do not force it back up. This means either there is an overload or a short circuit is occurring. Always install an MCB with the correct amperage (e.g., 6A, 16A, 32A).
IN SHORT
Frequent tripping = a sign of danger (call an electrician)
Correct MCB = a safe home
Tell us in the comments, has the MCB in your house ever tripped without any reason?
Disclaimer: This information is for general electrical awareness only. Do not attempt any electrical work yourself; always consult a certified electrician.