Which device is used to protect circuits from overload conditions?

The device used to protect circuits from overload conditions is a circuit breaker. Circuit breakers are designed to automatically interrupt the flow of electricity in a circuit when they detect a problem, such as a short circuit or an overload condition. This function is critical in preventing damage to electrical devices and reducing the risk of fire caused by excessive current flow. When an overload occurs, the circuit breaker trips, cutting off electricity to the affected circuit and providing a safe mechanism to reset once the issue has been resolved.

While a fuse also serves to protect against overload conditions, it operates differently by melting and breaking the circuit once the current exceeds its rated capacity. Unlike a fuse, which must be replaced after it blows, a circuit breaker can simply be reset, making it a more convenient and reusable option for protecting circuits. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are specifically designed to protect against ground faults and do not primarily address overloads. An emergency shutoff switch is used to quickly disconnect power but does not provide the continuous protection function like a circuit breaker does.