Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the Connecticut Electric Cutler Hammer CH120 1-Pole 20-Amp Circuit Breaker. Please read all instructions carefully before proceeding with installation or use. Retain this manual for future reference.
Important Safety Information
WARNING: Risk of Electric Shock or Fire.
- Installation and servicing of electrical equipment should only be performed by qualified, licensed electricians.
- Always turn off the main power supply at the service panel before installing, removing, or servicing circuit breakers. Verify power is off using a voltage tester.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and safety glasses.
- Ensure all local electrical codes and regulations are followed during installation.
- Do not use this circuit breaker if it appears damaged.
- This circuit breaker is designed for use in Cutler-Hammer load centers only.
Product Overview
The Connecticut Electric Cutler Hammer CH120 is a 1-pole, 20-amp replacement circuit breaker. It is designed to protect electrical circuits from overcurrents, which can result from overloads or short circuits. When an overcurrent condition occurs, the breaker automatically 'trips' to interrupt the flow of electricity, preventing damage to wiring and appliances, and reducing the risk of fire.
Image: The Connecticut Electric Cutler Hammer CH120 1-Pole 20-Amp Circuit Breaker. This image shows the compact black housing with the tan switch lever, indicating its 20-amp rating and compatibility with Cutler-Hammer panels.
Installation Instructions
Before beginning, ensure you have read and understood the safety information above. This circuit breaker is intended for use in 120-volt Cutler-Hammer load centers.
- Turn Off Main Power: Locate your main electrical service panel. Turn off the main circuit breaker to completely de-energize the panel.
- Verify Power is Off: Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that all circuits within the panel are de-energized.
- Remove Panel Cover: Carefully remove the cover of the electrical panel.
- Identify Breaker Slot: Locate an available slot on the bus bar within the Cutler-Hammer load center where the new CH120 breaker will be installed.
- Install Breaker: Hook the rear of the circuit breaker onto the retaining clip on the panel's bus bar. Then, firmly press the front of the breaker until it snaps securely into place on the bus bar.
- Connect Circuit Wire: Connect the appropriate circuit wire (typically a 12-gauge copper wire for 20-amp circuits) to the terminal screw on the circuit breaker. Ensure the connection is tight and secure.
- Replace Panel Cover: Carefully replace the electrical panel cover.
- Restore Main Power: Turn the main circuit breaker back on.
- Test Breaker: Turn the newly installed CH120 circuit breaker to the 'ON' position. Verify that the connected circuit is receiving power.
Note: Typical applications for a 20-amp, 120-volt circuit include kitchen circuits, branch circuits, wall receptacles, electric heaters (up to 1,650 watts), dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, window air conditioners (110V, up to 5,500 BTU), and electric motors (3/4 hp to 1-1/4 hp). Always consult local electrical codes for specific requirements.
Operating Instructions
The CH120 circuit breaker operates automatically to protect your electrical system. Under normal conditions, the breaker handle will be in the 'ON' position.
- Tripped Breaker: If an overload or short circuit occurs, the breaker will automatically 'trip' to the center or 'OFF' position, interrupting power to the circuit.
- Resetting a Tripped Breaker: To restore power, first identify and correct the cause of the trip (e.g., unplug overloaded devices, fix a short circuit). Then, firmly push the breaker handle completely to the 'OFF' position, and then back to the 'ON' position. If the breaker immediately trips again, do not attempt to reset it repeatedly. Consult a qualified electrician.
Maintenance
The Connecticut Electric Cutler Hammer CH120 circuit breaker is designed to be maintenance-free under normal operating conditions. Periodic visual inspection of the circuit breaker and its connections within the load center is recommended to ensure there are no signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. If any issues are observed, consult a qualified electrician.
Troubleshooting
- Breaker Trips Frequently:
- Overload: Too many devices are drawing power from the circuit. Unplug some devices or redistribute loads to other circuits.
- Short Circuit: A direct connection between hot and neutral wires, or hot and ground wires. This requires immediate attention from a qualified electrician.
- Ground Fault: Current leaking to the ground. While this is a standard breaker, a ground fault can still cause it to trip due to overload.
- Breaker Will Not Reset:
- Ensure the handle is pushed firmly to the full 'OFF' position before attempting to move it to 'ON'.
- If an overload or short circuit condition still exists, the breaker will not reset. Address the underlying issue.
- If the breaker is damaged internally, it may not reset. It will need to be replaced by a qualified electrician.
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, contact a qualified electrician for assistance.
Specifications
| Brand | Connecticut Electric |
| Model | CH120 |
| Current Rating | 20 Amps |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Number of Poles | 1 |
| Circuit Breaker Type | Standard |
| Mounting Type | Plug-In Mount |
| Item Weight | 0.1 Pounds |
Warranty Information
This Connecticut Electric CH120 Circuit Breaker comes with a 10-Year Warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation provided with your purchase or contact Connecticut Electric customer support.
Support and Contact
For technical assistance, questions regarding installation, or warranty claims, please contact Connecticut Electric customer support. It is recommended to consult a qualified electrician for any electrical work beyond your expertise.
You can find more information and contact details by visiting the official Connecticut Electric website or by referring to the contact information provided with your product packaging.
