Electricity is the most widely consumed source of energy around the world. We use it for lighting, appliances, heating, cooling, and more. However, it is associated with various risks. Understanding how electricity gets into your home and what to look for is crucial in preventing injuries and property damage.
A residential electrical service system is what brings power into your home and it is measured in amps. A typical home will use 60-100 amps to meet their energy demands. Homes that have additional needs or are larger will need 200 or more amps. If your home uses less than the recommended amount of amps it can cause dangerous situations like flickering lights, tripping breakers and short circuits.
In most homes, the main electrical panel is located in a large vertical gray metal (or sometimes brown or white) box that is mounted on the wall in a utility area. It is also referred to as the fuse box, breaker box, and circuit breaker panel. A meter is usually located in the same location, but the type of meter depends on the size of your house and whether you have individual or shared electric service.
In most homes, the power meter will have a label affixed to it that indicates its capacity. The panel will also have a main disconnect that is typically the largest breaker in the panel. Check the panel to make sure it has one, and also that the capacity is correct for your home.Electrician
