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Top Electricians » Inspection & Permit » Main Panel Safety Inspection

Main Panel Safety Inspection

An electrical circuit breaker, also known as the main electrical panel is the main distribution point of power to the electrical circuits in your home. It usually provides between 100 and 200 amps of power to your home. When power is distributed from the utility company, it runs through an electrical meter, an electrical disconnect and subsequently to the main breaker on your electrical panel. The main breaker will be marked as this is what you need to switch off or disconnect in case of any electrical emergency to prevent fire or damage.

Always remember that a 100amp supply is the minimum size service that is required for a new home. Older homes might have been equipped with only 60 amps but the demand for power has increased and this 60amp supply is no longer sufficient.

Although circuit breakers and panels will be installed by professionals, it is always a good idea to be in the know of how to inspect these panels and breakers in your home on a regular basis. This information also comes in handy if you need to cut power to your home in case of emergency.

Main Panel Safety Inspection

These are some important facts to keep in mind when inspecting the main panel for safety. But the most important fact to remember is having a professional electrician carry out main panel safety inspections.

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Once you have located the main circuit breaker, the main panel and any sub panels, remove the covers very carefully and inspect the interior components.

• Check for signs of corrosion on the panels and connections. Corrosion indicates that water has come in contact with these panels. Condensation can also cause this.
• Circuit breakers or fuses SHOULD NOT have more than one electrical conductor attached to them. “Double tapping” or “Triple tapping” is prohibited by law.
• Spliced wires are ONLY allowed to extend the length of the wire inside the panel. Splicing IS NOT allowed if it is to connect more than one wire to a circuit breaker or fuse. Anti corrosive gel is a MUST on aluminum connectors.
• Make sure that there are no loose or unfastened conductors inside the panel.
• All ground wires must be properly secured to the neutral/ground buss. Check the neutral buss for any bends/arching, charred metal or burnt wire insulation.
• All cables entering the panel box must be properly protected. Exposed wires MUST NOT at any time, entire the box. Wiring sizes must also match their respective fusing.
• Interior connections of all panels MUST be covered to prevent shock.
• The main disconnect MUST be marked as “main” to be easily identifiable in case of emergency.
• The panel MUST be securely attached to the wall or another secure, structural component.