Breaker Boxes

Breaker boxes—also called electrical panels, load centers, or circuit breaker panels—are the heart of a safe, reliable power distribution system. A quality breaker box protects wiring with properly sized breakers, organizes circuits for easy service, and offers room to grow. Whether you are finishing a basement, adding a workshop, or upgrading service, the right panel delivers safer operation, cleaner wire management, and straightforward maintenance.

Choosing a breaker box starts with amperage and circuit capacity. Common residential sizes include 100A, 150A, 200A, and 400A, with 200A now a frequent upgrade for homes adding EV chargers, heat pumps, or solar. Look for adequate spaces, not just circuits—more spaces simplify future projects and reduce reliance on tandem breakers. Decide between a main breaker panel or a main lug subpanel for garages, outbuildings, and additions. Match the enclosure to the location: NEMA 1 for dry indoor areas and NEMA 3R rainproof for outdoor use. Select surface-mount or flush-mount styles to fit your wall type. Features like plug-on neutral bars speed installation of AFCI and GFCI breakers, while copper bus options improve corrosion resistance. Consider smart panels or add-on energy monitoring for real-time usage insights and load management. Many modern breaker boxes accept whole-home surge protection devices, improving defense against spikes. Confirm UL listing, local code compliance, and breaker family compatibility (Square D, Eaton, Siemens, GE, Leviton).

Plan for tidy labeling and a clear directory on the door, leave spare spaces for later circuits, and use proper grounding and bonding kits. For standby power, choose panels that accept an interlock kit or pair cleanly with a transfer switch. Outdoor installations benefit from hubs, rain-tight fittings, and anti-corrosion hardware. Always de-energize circuits, pull permits where required, and consult a licensed electrician to meet NEC and local code. A well-chosen breaker box simplifies upgrades, boosts safety, and keeps your electrical system ready for today’s loads and tomorrow’s projects.