Load Centers

Appliances, lights and computers, in a house or building, are connected to various electrical circuits. Load centers — also called electrical panels, breaker boxes and fuse boxes — act as the control point for all of these circuits, where they can be turned on and off for safety.

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What Are Load Centers?

Load centers are electrical service panels, which are the “switchboards” for electrical connections. It is the location that receives the incoming power from the utility and distributes it to the circuits, and it’s also where the power can be shut off and on.

The load center houses the circuit breakers and fuses that protect the building’s circuits from overcurrent. The main circuit breaker controls the entire power supply, and the other circuit breakers serve a particular circuit.

A load center has three components. One is its enclosure, made of cold-rolled or galvanized steel to provide protection, that has stamped holes for routing electrical wiring. The others are the interior and trim. These units are wall-mounted steel boxes with a hinged door that provides access to the circuit breakers.

Uses for Load Centers

Load centers are used in light commercial and residential applications. If the load center is indoors, it is in a National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) type 1 rated electrical enclosure. Outdoor load centers require a NEMA type 3R enclosure, which provides better protection against ice, sleet and rain. Most buildings have one load center, though some have a sub-panel to serve a specific area.

Common Questions and Problems With Load Centers

According to the National Electrical Code®, there is no difference between a load center and a panelboard due to their similar functions, so they are regulated by the same standards. However, they are different in their size and volt and amp limits.

Load centers may experience some issues that affect their performance and could harm your company’s facility or personnel if not addressed. Common problems include:

  • Overcrowding: Multiple wires are connected to one breaker, which is a fire hazard.
  • Corrosion: Corrosion compromises electrical connections.
  • Bad handle ties: Handle ties connect breaker switches, and a bad part is hazardous.
  • Oversized fuses and breakers: The wire is incapable of handling the load and is a fire hazard.

 

Why Order Your Load Center From Global Electronic Services?

If you need a load center, call on Global Electronic Services. We have thousands of products for sale, including new, surplus and refurbished units. We even have some obsolete devices, so your company has many choices.

We also perform repairs and services for load centers. Our factory-trained technicians can diagnose and fix any problems using the thousands of parts we have on hand at our facility. Our turnaround time is one to five days, so your company will be running again soon.

Buy Load Centers Online Today

Global Electronic Services is the go-to place for buying load centers. Browse through our many options on this page. If you have any questions about our products or want to learn more, call 877-249-1701 today.

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