All home electrical systems start with main service wires that enter the home through a utility line that connects to a main service panel. From the main service panel, the current then separates into branch circuits. They are controlled individually by a separate circuit breaker. Read on to learn more.
What are Branch Circuits?
Branch circuits are part of an electrical circuit that extends past the last circuit breaker or fuse. It begins at the breaker box and extends to the devices connected to the service. Typically, 120-volt branch circuits supply power to standard fixtures and outlets and 240-volt circuits power major appliances.
There are four types of branch circuits in your home. Dedicated appliance circuits serve only one appliance such as a dishwasher, refrigerator, garbage disposal, clothes dryer, or air conditioner. They are either 120 or 240-volt circuits and any appliance with a motor requires a dedicated circuit. Lighting circuits serve several rooms. When you separate the lighting circuits from the outlet circuits, each room will be left with lighting if a circuit is shut off. Outlet circuits can be specific to one room or a group of rooms. They serve general plug-in outlets. In some instances, a circuit layout will have all the lights and outlets in a room served by an individual circuit known as a room circuit.
Tim Kyle: White Marsh Electrician
Since 1986, Tim Kyle Electric has been completing projects for residential and commercial clients throughout the Maryland area. Our residential electrical services will take all of the stress out of powering your home! No job is too small. We give 100% to every light bulb change, just as we do to a remodeling or rewiring project. Plus, we use only high-quality, contractor-grade materials. Contact us today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.