What is a panelboard?

A panelboard is fundamentally a component that divides electrical power into subsidiary circuits while providing overcurrent protection for each circuit. Typically installed in residential and commercial buildings, it contains a number of circuit breakers or fuses that protect electrical circuits from overloads. The design enables efficient distribution of electricity throughout a building, allowing for safety by preventing excessive current flow that could cause overheating and electrical fires.

This central distribution point also usually features a main switch or breaker, ensuring that all subsidiary circuits can be shut off simultaneously in case of an emergency or for maintenance. By channeling electricity into multiple circuits, panelboards help ensure that different areas of a building can operate independently and safely, which is essential for proper electrical system management.