switch panel

[Raul G]

I've had a four rocker switch panel from West Marine (they are expensive but nearby) on my boat for a few years. I went there for fuses, which they did not have, and they no longer make that panel- the replacement is a circuit breaker type- I'm assuming an upgrade. What I don't undertand is that with the replaceable fuses you could "tailor" the type of fuse, because the amperage recommended for like the bilge pump is different than an interior light,etc. Does the circuit breaker panel incorporate these differences? Anyway I found replacement fuses for the moment. Are these circuit breaker panels the wave of the future? Sorry, I am not an electrician though I did wire my boat panel successfully.:icon_geek

[SSPhone]

The circuit breakers are rated also and should act just like a fuse. The good thing about the circuit breaker is you can reset it instead of replacing a blown fuse.

[Raul G]

Thank you, is easier if all you have to do is reset the breaker!

[duckbone]

Keeps dummies from just putting bigger fuses or foil or pennies in. If it popped for a reason it will just keep popping.

[Drake]

Yep, One less thing to have to carry and keep track of in the boat. Just push to reset. They should come in the same amp rating as the fuses.

[bman]

Raul, we just put one of the fuse style in the boat. I got it last year but never got around to putting it in...

How long did it last you?

[Raul G]

I put it in the same year I bought the boat- went all the way to Leesburg but I still saved money- in 2004. It still works; I found the fuses and will continue to use it. The new circuit breaker model is $35.