Circuit Breaker Panel - Worth Installing?

[lzpup]

I am planning on some electrical upgrades, Does it make sense to switch the fuses to circuit breakers? I see some installs with the Marine panels for circuit breakers, is this better , worse , not worth it?

I poked around and did not see anyone in the forums with this setup (or i searched poorly)
(HAWK Shell)
Thank you,

 

[craig333]

I had the same question when rewiring my Jeep. Though I added a couple circuit breakers I ultimately came to the conclusion it wasn't worth it.

 

[JaSAn]

More expensive - 12V circuit breakers = > $8/each, ATC/ATO fuses = < 20¢/each in bulk
More sensitive - can trip when not warranted
Less reliable - more modes of failure
Less accurate - wider variance in amperage to break circuit
More resistance - higher voltage drop across fuse
Slower - more things have to happen to break circuit
Less available - a gas station in Nowheresville will have automotive fuses

jim

 

[Vic Harder]

+1 to what Jim said.

 

[BFH4N]

Fuses are reliable enough. The only problem is not having a replacement on hand when one blows. Put together a kit of lots of spare fuses and forget about circuit breakers. You'll be just as well off and save a lot of money.

- Bernard

 

[Beach]

If you already have circuits set up with fuses its not worth the money to change to breakers. As mentioned just make up a small kit of replacement fuses.