Servicepanels

Servicepanels, commonly known as electrical service panels or panelboards, are central distribution points for electricity within a building. They receive power from the utility and route it to branch circuits through circuit breakers or fuses, providing overcurrent protection and a convenient control point. The panel is usually mounted in a utility area behind a removable cover.

A service panel contains a main disconnect or main breaker, bus bars, a row of branch circuit breakers, and neutral and grounding bars. The enclosure is closed and labeled to help identify circuits.

Residential panels are typically main-breaker types rated 100 to 200 amps; commercial panels may be larger. Subpanels feed specific areas and are supplied from the main panel rather than directly from the utility.

Installations follow electrical codes in the relevant jurisdiction. In the United States, the National Electrical Code governs sizing, grounding, bonding, and accessibility. Neutrals and grounds are bonded at the main panel; subpanels use separate neutral and ground bars. A licensed electrician should perform work.

Safety concerns include avoiding overloading circuits, keeping panels dry and accessible, and addressing signs of overheating or arcing. Regular inspections help ensure safe operation and early fault detection.

The concept evolved from fuse boxes to modern panelboards in the mid-20th century, with major manufacturers providing standardized designs supporting a range of breakers and configurations.