Electricidad
Circuit Breaker (MCB)
Automatic breaker that protects a circuit against overloads and short circuits.
What is Circuit Breaker (MCB)?
Each circuit of your home (kitchen, bathroom, lighting...) has its own circuit breaker in the electrical panel. It trips when the current exceeds its capacity (slow overload) or when there is a short circuit (sudden surge). Each breaker has an amperage printed on it (10A, 16A, 20A) indicating its limit.
When you encounter it in an emergency & typical cost
If it trips only when you plug in a specific appliance, that appliance is the problem. If it trips with nothing plugged in, there is a short circuit or the breaker is defective.
Arrival within 20-35 minutes
Related technical terms
Differential Switch (RCD) →
Breaker that detects ground leaks and disconnects the power to prevent electrocution.
Main Circuit Breaker (IGA) →
The main switch of the electrical panel that protects against total overload of the entire house.
Electrical Panel →
Electrical protection and distribution center of the home, housing all breakers (IGA, RCD, circuit breakers).