What is the function of an electrical panel?

The function of an electrical panel is primarily to distribute and control electricity throughout a building or facility. It acts as a central hub that receives electricity from the utility service and directs it to various circuits that power different parts of the building, such as lighting, heating, and appliances. This distribution is essential for the safe and efficient use of electrical energy.

Furthermore, the electrical panel also includes circuit breakers or fuses, which serve as a safety mechanism to protect circuits from overloads or short circuits—functions that tie into the protection aspect but do not define the primary role of the panel itself. The panel allows for the isolation of electrical systems for maintenance or repair, ensuring that work can be done safely without impacting the entire electrical supply.

While measuring electrical consumption can be a feature of some panels, it is not their primary function. Electrical panels organize and manage the distribution of power, which is fundamental to the operation of any electrical system in a home or commercial setting.