Most homeowners don’t really give their electrical system a whole lot of thought until something goes wrong.
Most homeowners don’t really give their electrical system a whole lot of thought until something goes wrong. However, one of the best ways to prevent issues is to know the parts of the system and how they are supposed to work. Your home’s electrical system is a large network of wiring and other devices that all work together to power your home. Here is a brief overview of those components.
The Electrical Panel
The electrical panel is definitely the most important part of your home’s electrical system. This is what controls the flow of electricity from the power lines that are outside, to your home. Different panels can handle different amounts of electricity, so make sure your home’s electrical panel is providing the right amount of power for your home. If you need more electricity, the panel can be upgraded.
The Breaker Box
The breaker box is often confused with the electrical panel. The power enters your home through the panel, but it is distributed BY the breaker box. When you open the door of your breaker box, you see a series of switches. These switches will tell you how much energy is going to which sections of your home. If you try to use too much electricity on a single switch, it will trip and cut off the power to prevent safety hazards.
Wiring
The wiring of your home’s electrical system is by far the largest part. If you think of your home as if it were a human, the electrical wiring would be the blood vessels. Like blood vessels carry blood throughout your body, the wiring in your home carries electricity. Well-maintained wiring is essential to a healthy electrical system.
Outlets and Switches
The outlets and switches in your home are what you interact with the most. Switches control the flow of electricity to very specific areas, whether it is to an outlet or a light fixture or ceiling fan. Outlets provide power to whatever devices you need to plug in. Different types of outlets are used in different parts of your home: areas where there is a lot of moisture require GFCIs to remain safe.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
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