How an Electrical Panel Works

Your home’s electrical panel is the hub of all the wiring in your home. The main service line from the utility company enters the breaker box, which contains a master breaker that shuts off all power throughout the home. Inside the box are several breakers arranged by the circuit; when a breaker trips, it stops electricity from flowing to that specific outlet or light switch. Breakers are designed to trip if too much electricity passes through them—a sign that something has gone wrong with a single appliance or outlet or with your entire system.