An Electrical Panel is the central hub for all your home’s wiring and electrical features. It provides over current protection and a means to disconnect lighting, appliances, and receptacles in the event of an overload or short circuit. If you’re experiencing a lot of power outages or your circuit breakers are continually tripping, it’s probably time to upgrade your electrical panel.
Upgrading to a new panel can also add value to your home if you’re planning on selling it, as many buyers aren’t willing to purchase homes that still use fuses. It can also increase your safety by lowering the risk of fires and power surges.
A circuit breaker is an automatic switch that prevents overheating and fires in an electric system by detecting fault conditions. The breaker detects an overload or short circuit and interrupts the flow of electricity. They can be manually or automatically operated, depending on the situation. Typically, they are stacked in an electrical panel and controlled with a lever that places them in the “On” or “Off” position. Some panels may also contain a main breaker that powers all the circuits in the panel.
The electrical panel can be found in residential settings such as a garage, basement, or utility closet. They are also common in commercial buildings, such as warehouses and equipment sheds. Some large buildings have multiple electrical panels that are connected together in an electrical network.
In addition to having a breaker, the electrical panel should have some form of labeling that indicates the circuits it serves. Typically, there are stickers placed next to each breaker or sheets adhered to the inside of the panel door that indicate the circuits served by the breaker. It is important to have accurate and legible labeling so that it is easy to identify the breaker for troubleshooting or repairs.
During an inspection of your electrical panel, the inspector should also check for proper labeling. The inspector should note if the breaker labels are missing, illegible, or inaccurate. They should also look for the panel label that is usually laser-etched or stamped on the face of the panel and indicate the amperage, voltage, and number of conductors serving the panel.
A good quality Siemens electrical panel can offer you a wide range of sizes and shapes that will fit your space perfectly. The panel also comes with a user guide so that you can install it on your own. This will save you a lot of money and will be much safer than hiring a professional. Moreover, it will help you keep within OSHA safety standards and regulations for working near electrical hazards. This is especially important in a factory where employees work on machines that can cause severe injuries if not properly operated.