As a property owner, maintaining your electrical wiring will help prevent fires and ensure every room in your home has power. With this in mind, scheduling routine maintenance with a seasoned electrician is incredibly important. During an electrical service visit, a professional will request access to your electrical panel. If you’re unfamiliar with this part of the system, here’s what you need to know. 

Understanding Your Electrical Panel

What Is an Electrical Panel?

An electrical panel, which is also called the breaker box or distribution board by electrical contractors, is an enclosed steel box that contains a series of circuit breakers. These circuit breakers, or switches, distribute power to each area in your home and protect your wiring from surges or shorts. 

What Is the Purpose of an Electrical Panel?

Your breaker box is a central point that allows you to monitor, secure, and test electrical power throughout your home. Turning certain breakers off will allow your electrician to repair wiring safely. In essence, your panel is a switchboard that receives power from your utility company and safely distributes it throughout your house.  

What Are the Main Components?

The inside of your electrical panel houses switches that feed the power. These switches have an on and off position so you can shut off the power when needed. Electrical panels also contain a service disconnect switch that allows you to disable power throughout your entire home. Your panel may also include expansion slots so an electrician can add wiring accordingly if you build onto your existing home. 

Are you looking for a top-notch electrician who specializes in a wide range of electrical services? Zelek Electric is your one-stop-shop for quality assistance. As a family-owned business located in the heart of Old Lyme, CT, this company has provided friendly, efficient service to residential and commercial clients across New London and Middlesex counties since 1983. To schedule an appointment, call today at (860) 434-9726. For more information on their offerings, visit their website.