An Electrical Panel, also known as a Load Center or Breaker Box, is the heart of your home’s electric system. It takes the large incoming power supply from the utility and distributes it as smaller, protected feeds to each circuit in your house. The load center contains circuit breakers that serve as safety barriers to keep current from flowing too quickly should any problem occur.
When selecting a breaker panel, you want to ensure that it is rated for the amount of electricity you use in your household. Typically, panels are rated at either 100 amps or 200 amps. You will be able to determine the amperage of your panel by looking at the label on the inside of the panel door. It is important to choose a high-quality breaker panel so that it will last for a long time. A good quality breaker panel will come with a number of features that can help you save money and maintain efficiency.
A breaker panel that is rated at 200 amps is a great option for your home. This type of panel can support multiple circuits and will have a capacity that is appropriate for most homes. These panels usually have a label on the interior of the door that indicates the amperage and type of breakers.
Other parts that can be found on a breaker panel include terminal blocks, fuses, and relays. A terminal block is a metal strip that provides the mechanical support for a series of wires. The fuses and relays are used for over-current protection. They are an electronic component that converts AC into DC. The fuses and relays can be used to control power for field devices.
It is a good idea to check the condition of the breaker panel on a regular basis. If the breaker panel feels warm to the touch, it could mean that some of the components are getting worn out and that there is a risk of an electrical failure. This is a sign that it is time to have the breaker panel upgraded.
The best way to ensure the proper functioning of your breaker panel is to hire a certified electrician. During the inspection, the electrician can identify any problems that should be fixed immediately. He can also recommend the proper upgrades and changes to keep your breaker panel in its peak performance.
While a standard breaker panel is adequate for most households, if you are planning to add an appliance like a hot tub, it is recommended that you get a newer and larger breaker panel. This will not only protect you from overheating the breaker but it will also prevent a fire in your home. The main reason that a fire starts in an electrical panel is due to overheating of the circuit breakers. If you are experiencing overheating or have been hearing strange noises from your electrical panel, it is a good idea to contact a qualified electrician in Dallas as soon as possible.