Many people interchange the words “breaker box” and “electrical panel, but they mean two very different things. While it’s true that both of these work to disconnect or shut off the electrical power to protect your home from overload or electrical fire, that’s where the similarities end. Read on to learn more about the difference between a breaker box and an electric panel if you need help determining what you have in your home.
What Is a Breaker Box?
Typically in older homes, a breaker box or a circuit breaker panel is the central area of electricity distribution to all of the electrical circuits in your home. The electricity enters your home through a service point of entrance; then, it goes through the breaker box, which regulates the electrical current. Without a breaker box, turning on an electrical device in the home would overwhelm it with electricity.
Inside a breaker box is a top panel where the entrance wires connect to the lugs. There is also a dead front cover that protects the lugs and connecting wires to the breaker box. Breakers inside the box are in two rows with a large or main breaker that controls the electrical current to the other breakers.
What Is an Electrical Panel?
More modern home electrical systems typically have an electrical panel that houses the breaker box. It is a steel box containing the circuit breakers. Inside, the main panel breakers serve as a barrier of safety between the source wires that come from the electrical meter and the home wiring. In addition to the breaker box and source wires, the electrical panel contains the following:
- Main disconnect switch
- Hot busbars
- Neutral busbar
- Grounding busbar
- Circuit breakers
- Branch circuit wires
Is Your Home Ready for an Electrical System Upgrade?
If you notice any damage to the breaker box or electrical panel, smell odd burning odors, or hear strange sounds coming from them, it’s crucial to contact a trusted electrician immediately. And at Kalahari Electrical Services, we can provide a professional inspection. We will help you determine if your home electrical system requires an upgrade or repair service.
We are dedicated to keeping your home electrical system in safe, optimal condition as it provides the necessary power to your home. Our service call rate is $389, and we offer emergency services 24/7 to Atlanta Metro Area customers. And as the area’s top electricians, count on us to provide upfront pricing and professional services. Similarly, we can give you peace of mind. Our attention to detail, expertise, and commitment to exceptional customer care ensure your 100% satisfaction. We guarantee it!
Get in touch to schedule service with Kalahari Electrical Services today. Learn more about the difference between a breaker box and an electric panel.
