The main electrical panel is the central hub for all branch circuits of the house. All power for your home moves through this panel from the utility company, to the exit wires that split off and service different parts of the house. These exit wires are called branch circuits or branch wire circuits. Service wire lugs connect the power from the utility through the electric meter to the electrical panel, and are highly dangerous points that should never be touched.

Components of main electrical panels include; the housing unit, panel door, circuit breakers, hot bus bars, neutral bar, ground wire and a ground bar. Changing out or upgrading your electrical service is a job for a licensed electrician.