It is possible to clean and refurbish breakers with interchangeable trip units if the UL or the manufacturer of the breaker authorizes it but I doubt if they would. There are too many variables involved to be certain that the breaker has been refurbished and tested to factory specification.'
The reason that I pointed out breaker with interchangeable trip units is that the trip unit could be removed leaving the frame and the moving and stationary contact and mechanical parts around the toggle and trip mechanism. It is conceivable that this assembly could be cleaned and lubricated.
The trip unit is another issue as they are sealed somewhat but not enough to keep water out so they can't be taken apart, inspected and cleaned so they should be destroyed.. The same thing with electronic trip breakers it shouldn't be even considered and they should also be destroyed.
With non-interchangable trip an other sealed breaker the factory seal must be broken to enter the breaker. sealed breaker should also be destroyed.
NEMA has a publication that is very clear in how to address water damaged electrical equipment
But there are many out there that will not ask any question because the price is so good and install them. What is so interesting is that one may not know that a defective breaker has been installed because there may never be a need for a trip. So, the electrical saves money and fills a hole in the panel, the device looks good and he leaves. He's a hero for saving the customer money.
That essentially goes for any breaker that we remove from a panel and save the used for later use. If we install a used breaker can we be certain that it will function properly by providing the protection that is intended.
