Do you want to protect your home and its occupants from electrical hazards? It’s time to purchase a reliable circuit breaker panel.
A circuit breaker panel (or breaker box) is crucial to your home’s electrical system. It acts as a central hub, distributing power to various outlets and circuits while protecting them from potential hazards like electrical surges, overloads, and short circuits. It auto-interrupts the power supply to prevent electrical fires and ensures the safety of your family and property.
To choose the right panel for your circuit breaker to enhance safety, efficiency, and future-proofing, you need to consider these three key factors….
- Amperage Rating – The maximum current a panel can handle for proper power distribution. Choose the panel’s amperage based on your home’s power needs. Mostly, a panel with 200 amps is enough for most modern houses. Whereas, a panel with 400 amps is required for large homes or small commercial places with extensive power demands.
- Types Of Breakers – Even the breaker type will decide the panel you choose, as it impacts the level of protection received by the electrical system in the panel. Standard, GFCI, and AFCI are three main types of circuit breakers available that offer protection against electrical hazards under specific conditions. So, select the panel that suits the circuit breaker to provide proper protection to the system.
- Number Of Circuits – It provides proper information on how many electrical outlets and devices, the panel allows you to connect securely. Before purchasing, you need to think twice and choose the best option by considering both your current and future electrical needs. A panel with 200 amps offers 42 circuits, whereas, a 400-amp panel comes with 84 circuits.
For more detailed insights into these circuit breaker panels, we recommend you read our “Buying Guide” and top-rated circuit breaker panel models. So that you can easily find the ideal option as per your requirements and preferences.
Best Circuit Breaker Panels Table
| Circuit Breaker Panels | Amperage Capacity | Number of Circuits | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siemens TL137US Circuit Breaker Panel | 125 Amps | 3 | Check On Amazon |
| Square D - HOM1224L125PC Circuit Breaker Panel | 125 Amps | 24 | Check On Amazon |
| Siemens E0816ML1125S Circuit Breaker Panel | 125 Amps | 16 | Check On Amazon |
| Schneider Electric Circuit Breaker Panel | 200 Amps | 80 | Check On Amazon |
| Siemens P1224L3125CU Circuit Breaker Panel | 125 Amps | 24 | Check On Amazon |
| Blue Sea Systems 8373 Circuit Breaker Panel | 90 Amps | 6 | Check On Amazon |
| Leviton LP420-BPD Circuit Breaker Panel | 200 Amps | 42 | Check On Amazon |
Best Circuit Breaker Panel Reviews
1. Siemens TL137US Circuit Breaker Panel
Siemens TL137US power outlet panel, designed with a focus on electrical safety and reliability for temporary power requirements. It offers receptacles for 20, 30, and 50 Amps, making it perfect for construction sites and RV parks. The panel’s sturdy alloy steel construction supports both surface and pole mounting, increasing its versatility in outdoor settings. Furthermore, being UL-listed and outdoor-rated, it adheres to strict safety standards and is durable enough for any temporary electrical setup.
Equipped with a padlock-ready elevated cover, this offering from Siemens stands out for its focus on preventing unauthorized access, a key consideration in many safety-conscious settings. The panel also includes Siemens circuit breakers, which safeguard against electrical issues, providing both secure and reliable power management. This integration of security and functionality makes it a top choice for managing power needs effectively.
Ideal for challenging outdoor and rugged uses, this offering from Siemens excels as a temporary power solution, crafted with safety and flexibility in mind, which we will explore in detail in this guide. Its features make it suitable not only for temporary needs but also as a stepping stone to more fixed installations, highlighting its comparative advantages in this comprehensive product overview.
Specifications:
- Current Rating: 50 Amps
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Circuits Number: 3
- Dimensions: 9.9″L x 5.7″W x 19.5″H
- Total Outlets: 4
- Mounting: Surface or pole
- Safety: Padlock prevents misuse
- Outdoor Rated: UL listed
- Breakers: Siemens circuit protection
- Availability Date: November 2, 2012
Pros:
- Secure padlock feature
- Durable alloy construction
- Multiple receptacle options
- Versatile mounting choices
- Clear, concise instructions
Cons:
- Primarily for outdoor use
- No meter socket included
- Professional installation needed
2. Square D – HOM1224L125PC Circuit Breaker Panel
Square D Homeline is a robust and adaptable electrical panel ideal for managing home electricity needs. This 125-Amp panel, perfect for indoor setups, accommodates up to 24 circuits and features a customizable slot design for various breaker configurations such as full-size, tandem, or quad. Its durable aluminum construction ensures a dependable, long-lasting solution. Additionally, the panel’s plug-on neutral feature facilitates easy installation of combination arc fault breakers, improving safety and streamlining power management.
With Square D, the inclusion of a fully distributed neutral bar highlights their commitment to detail, ensuring wiring is both straightforward and safe. The panel’s combination flush/surface cover adds to the aesthetic versatility of the installation, allowing it to appear neat whether flush-mounted or surface-mounted. Despite its sleek design, the cover provides effortless access to breakers, facilitating easy maintenance and enhancing safety during troubleshooting.
Focusing on long-term residential solutions, Square D provides a top choice for homeowners aiming to upgrade their electrical panels, featuring straightforward installation and a sleek design. The panel design includes an easily accessible neutral bar and breakers, demonstrating Square D’s commitment to combining safety with user-friendly features in electrical system design.
Specifications:
- Current Rating: 125 Amps
- Material: Aluminum
- Number Of Circuits: 24
- Dimensions: 14.25″L x 3.75″W x 17.92″H
- Neutral Bar: Fully distributed
- Breaker Type: Full-size, tandem, quad
- Mounting: Combination flush/surface
- Plug-On Neutral: Ready
- Special Feature: Convertible to main breaker
- Warranty: 10 years
Pros:
- Flexible breaker configuration
- Durable aluminum build
- Plug-on neutral feature
- Aesthetic installation options
- Extended warranty coverage
Cons:
- Indoor use only
- No pre-installed main breaker
3. Siemens E0816ML1125S Circuit Breaker Panel
Siemens E0816ML1125S is designed for efficient and reliable indoor electrical distribution, featuring a 125 Amp, single-phase system that accommodates up to 16 circuits across 8 spaces. Ideal for small homes or particular zones within larger estates, this unit’s surface mount configuration is optimal for space-constrained renovation projects. It is built with robust materials, including an aluminum bus bar and a galvanized carbon steel enclosure, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.
This unit’s main lug configuration makes it perfectly suited for subpanel purposes, making it an ideal choice for anyone planning to extend their electrical system. It offers easy integration, facilitating an efficient and non-disruptive expansion of electrical capacity. Plus, the NEMA type-1 enclosure acts as a safeguard against common indoor environmental conditions, providing an extra measure of security to your setup.
Designed to excel in tight spaces, the Siemens panel is ideal for specialized applications that require easy integration and straightforward functionality. This model is particularly valuable for users looking for a dependable subpanel capable of operating efficiently in limited areas without sacrificing performance.
Specifications:
- Current Rating: 125 Amps
- Material: Alloy Steel, Aluminum
- Number Of Circuits: 16
- Dimensions: 15.4″L x 13″W x 5.3″H
- Mounting Type: Surface Mount
- Enclosure: Galvanized carbon steel
- Bus Bar: Aluminum
- Type: Main Lug Only
- Safety Standards: Meets UL, ANSI
- Design: NEMA type-1 indoor
Pros:
- Compact and efficient
- Durable construction materials
- Ideal for subpanel use
- Easy installation features
- Corrosion-resistant
Cons:
- Limited to indoor use
- Smaller circuit capacity
- Requires additional ground bar
4. Schneider Electric Circuit Breaker Panel
Schneider Electric delivers a robust 200 Amp, 40-space breaker panel, crafted to efficiently manage significant power requirements in residential and commercial settings. The panel’s ability to support up to 80 circuits makes it highly adaptable for large-scale use. Featuring the Qwik-Grip system, it streamlines the installation process by eliminating conventional knockouts, thus enhancing safety and reducing the time needed for installation.
The plug-on neutral design is a key feature, simplifying the setup process by facilitating easy connections of neutral wires without additional pigtail connections. This feature speeds up the installation and cuts down on clutter within the panel, thereby improving safety and the overall look. The panel’s fully distributed neutral bar also adds to its appeal, offering flexible installation choices for various circuit breaker types, including combination arc fault and ground fault circuit interrupters.
With its innovative approach to ease of installation and user interaction, the panel offers a robust solution for electrical distribution needs in new buildings and renovation projects. This includes a comprehensive circuit capacity and is equipped with the latest safety features, making it a choice for efficient and effective electrical management.
Specifications:
- Current Rating: 200 Amps
- Number Of Spaces: 40
- Number Of Circuits: 80
- Installation: Indoor with Qwik-Grip
- Neutral: Plug-on design
- Safety: Main breaker included
- Features: Value pack with cover
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 41.7″L x 15.9″W x 5.4″H
- Compliance: UL listed
Pros:
- High circuit capacity for large setups
- Qwik-Grip system simplifies installation
- Plug-on neutral reduces wiring time
- Value pack includes necessary components
- Modern and efficient design
Cons:
- Limited to indoor installation
- Requires careful planning for space allocation
- Large size may not fit in all designated areas
5. Siemens P1224L3125CU Circuit Breaker Panel
The SIEMENS P1224L3125CU panel is designed for robust power management in commercial or industrial settings. This advanced, three-phase, 125 Amp panel accommodates up to 24 circuits within 12 spaces, making it highly versatile for demanding environments. Its insta-wire technology enhances the installation experience by having screws already backed out, ready for immediate wire insertion, which reduces setup time and labor costs.
With its copper bus construction, this Siemens panel offers lasting durability and enhanced conductivity for efficient power distribution. It includes two factory-installed ground bars, boosting safety and reliability in managing various circuits and electrical loads. The trim holding tabs make mounting simple, reflecting Siemens’ dedication to ease of installation and user-friendly design
The panel is ideally suited for large-scale operations in factories and commercial buildings needing substantial power distribution. It features a three-phase system that effectively balances the power across phases, enhancing overall system efficiency and decreasing the electrical load on any single phase.
Specifications:
- Current Rating: 125 Amps
- Material: Copper
- Number Of Circuits: 24
- Dimensions: 16″L x 5.75″W x 23.5″H
- Phase Type: Three-Phase
- Mounting: Trim holding tabs
- Bus Bar: Copper
- Ground Bars: Two factory-installed
- Installation: Insta-wire technology
- Design: Main Lug Load Center
Pros:
- High capacity and versatility
- Superior copper bus conductivity
- Insta-wire technology simplifies setup
- Dual ground bars enhance safety
- Efficient three-phase distribution
Cons:
- Requires large space for installation
- Not suitable for residential use
- More substantial weight increases handling challenges
6. Blue Sea Systems 8373 Circuit Breaker Panel
Blue Sea Systems 8373 is designed to meet the rigorous demands of marine environments, focusing on water resistance and durability. This panel, ideal for flybridge and open cockpit installations, carries an IP66 rating, which protects against heavy water jets. Suited for boats and yachts, it offers reliability in frequently wet conditions. The inclusion of “ON” indicating LEDs in every circuit position also boosts safety and visibility, simplifying the process of checking power status during low-light situations.
Designed for the modern mariner, this breaker panel features six compact positions and integrates seamlessly into a variety of marine setups. Made from corrosion-resistant, black UV-stabilized plastic, it complements the modern aesthetic of any marine craft. The robust design and targeted features of the panel cater to the specific needs of marine electrical systems, ensuring reliable circuit protection and simplified monitoring of electrical activities.
Designed for marine environments, the panel excels in situations where exposure to moisture, salt, and space constraints are common. Its rugged build ensures long-lasting performance, offering a dependable power management solution on vessels. The panel’s compact form and ability to handle the demands of the sea make it an essential component for anyone requiring specialized equipment for marine use.
Specifications:
- Panel Type: Water Resistant
- Material: UV-stabilized Plastic
- Number Of Positions: 6
- Dimensions: 10.9″L x 6.2″W x 4.6″H
- IP Rating: IP66
- LED Indicators: “ON” lights in all positions
- Color: Black
- Usage: Marine environments
- Installation: Simple, space-saving
- Resistance: Corrosion-resistant
Pros:
- Highly water-resistant (IP66)
- Compact and space-efficient
- LED indicators for easy monitoring
- Corrosion-resistant materials
- Designed specifically for marine use
Cons:
- Limited circuit positions
- Higher cost for specialized use
- Not suitable for general residential use
- Limited compatibility with non-marine setups
- Requires specific installation expertise
7. Leviton LP420-BPD Circuit Breaker Panel
Leviton LP420-BPD breaker panel for advanced residential electrical management, featuring a 200 Amp, 42-circuit system, is designed for extensive home electrical requirements. Its innovative approach allows electricians to complete all necessary wiring at the rough-in phase without installing breakers, making the process easier and faster while offering 42 spaces for diverse electrical needs.
Offering a sleek look with its modern white powder-coated finish, the panel not only functions efficiently but also enhances the aesthetic appeal beyond the usual grey industrial standards. The use of tin-plated copper bussing ensures superior conductivity and corrosion resistance, enhancing the overall safety and longevity of the panel. Furthermore, the organized layout and notches for cable ties promote secure and neat wiring, contributing to both safety and ease of maintenance.
This electrical panel offers homeowners a high-capacity solution for managing their power needs efficiently. With its user-friendly interface and visually appealing design, it provides an optimal balance of functionality and style for any home.
Specifications:
- Current Rating: 200 Amps
- Material: Copper, powder-coated finish
- Number Of Circuits: 42
- Dimensions: 14.25″L x 4″W x 43″H
- Panel Type: Indoor with Main Breaker
- Color: White
- Installation: Easy wiring at rough-in
- Conductivity: Tin-plated copper bussing
- Design: Modern, with notches for cable ties
- Safety Features: Organized wiring layout
Pros:
- High circuit capacity
- Superior copper conductivity
- Streamlined installation process
- Stylish modern design
- Organized and safe wiring
Cons:
- Not suitable for outdoor use
- Large size may not fit all spaces
- Higher price point due to features
- Panel cover sold separately
- Specific to residential use, not versatile for commercial or industrial environments
Features To Look For In A Circuit Breaker Panel
Be it the electrical wiring of your residential or commercial use, having a circuit breaker is highly essential to prevent any electrical damage (surges) to the appliances. To use these breakers, you need to purchase the best circuit breaker panels. Even though, we have provided a list of the circuit breaker panels for protection. However, careful consideration of various key factors is essential for selecting the best option that perfectly suits your circuit breaker needs and preferences.
1. Type Of Breakers
The type of circuit breaker you’re using will also play a key role in the selection of the circuit breaker panel, as it impacts the level of protection received for your electrical system. Usually, different types of circuit breakers are designed to safeguard against specific electrical risks.
- Standard Circuit Breaker is the most common type that provides basic protection against short circuits and overloads.
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to protect from electrical shock, used particularly in areas with moisture (outdoor outlets or areas near water sources).
- Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are designed to protect the circuit from electrical fires caused due to arcing faults.
Consider the specific needs of your home and local building codes for the perfect mix of breaker types to have adequate protection for your electrical system.
2. Amperage Rating
The amperage rating (amps) is the maximum amount of electricity that flows safely through the panel. It differs with different settings, and choose the amps based on your power demands. Common amperage ratings for residential panels will range from 100 to 400 amps. For instance, a breaker panel with 200 amps is enough for most household settings, whereas, a 400-amp panel is required for larger homes due to high power demands. For commercial settings, choose a breaker panel with up to 600 amps (or more) based on the building’s electrical demand. So, a panel whose amperage rating should match or exceed the total electrical demand of the home is most preferred.
3. Number Of Spaces
The number of spaces in a panel will indicate the number of circuit breakers it can accommodate. This lets you know how many circuit breakers can be installed in the panel. The wider the number of spaces in the panel, the more circuits can be handled and protected easily. It might vary a lot, small panels can house 8 – 12 breakers, while larger panels can easily accommodate 42 or more breakers. So, consider your current and future needs (or expansions) of the property before selecting the panel. For instance, a home with multiple appliances, a workshop, or a home office, needs more circuits that require a panel with more space.
4. Busbar Configuration
The safety and performance of the breaker panel are affected by its busbar configuration. The busbars are conductive bars used for safe power distribution to the individual breakers all over the panel. Thus, it determines the maximum load handling capacity and how it is distributed within the panel. Single-phase or three-phase setups are the most common configurations, in which choose the one based on the power needs of your property. A residential home requires single-phase panels, whereas, a three-phase panel is a must for a commercial building/industrial application to handle high power loads and safely distribute them accordingly.
5. NEMA Rating
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) rating is a standard that indicates the ability of a panel to withstand and function properly in various environmental conditions. This rating can range from 1 – 12, in which each number represents different levels of protection against various factors, including water, dust, or corrosion. While a panel with a NEMA 1 rating is enough for most indoor environments, but prefer NEMA 3R (rainproof and sleet-resistant) or NEMA 4X (corrosion-resistant) is most preferred for harsher or outdoor environments. Choosing the suitable NEMA rating will ensure the panel’s longevity, allowing it to function effectively in any environmental conditions.
6. UL Listing
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a globally recognized safety company that tests products to ensure they meet specific safety standards. So, a panel with a UL listing certification will ensure that it has undergone thorough testing to identify and alleviate potential risks. They will safeguard against electrical failures and compliance issues, and thereby enhance the safety of you and your property during emergencies.
7. Number Of Circuits
It indicates the overall number of electrical outlets and devices that can be connected safely to the circuit breaker. If you choose a panel with few circuits, it might limit the expansion ability of your electrical system in the future. The best way to determine the required number of circuits required in the panel is by considering both the current and anticipated future electrical needs. Most experts recommend choosing the number of circuits that is twice the number of spaces. In most cases, a typical 200-amp panel has 42 circuits, whereas, a 400-amp panel has 84 circuits for proper connectivity.
FAQs:
Both circuit breaker panels and fuse boxes are specially designed to protect the electrical system, but they operate differently. A fuse box uses fuses that melt easily during overload and has to be replaced when it blows. While a circuit breaker panel uses breakers that can be reset easily even after tripping during an overload. So, a breaker panel is a much more convenient and safer option than fuse boxes.
The required size of a circuit breaker panel depends on your home’s electrical load. So, this load is determined by the total power consumption of your devices and other appliances in your home. It is measured in amperes, with some common residential sizes including 100 to 400 amperes.
Simply use a permanent marker or label maker to label each circuit clearly in the breaker panel. This helps to identify each switch that describes the area or appliances where each circuit powers. It is quite useful during maintenance or emergencies.
A tandem breaker (or cheater breaker) in a panel can connect two circuits in one slot. Thus, it allows you to connect extra circuits to the electrical panel without replacing the entire panel. They are safer to use when the added circuits should be within the panel’s overall capacity (not to exceed).
It depends. Adding more circuits to the panel will automatically exceed the panel’s load capacity, and thereby result in potential safety hazards. However, adding circuits within the panel’s capacity and managing all these circuits properly won’t overload the panel.
Conclusion
Choosing the right circuit breaker panel is key for keeping your home or commercial space safe and efficient. Here’s a look at some top choices:
- Siemens TL137US: Known for its strong design and reliability, this panel is a solid choice for most needs.
- Square D – HOM1224L125PC: This one is great for easy installation and comes with top-notch safety features.
- Siemens E0816ML1125S: It’s well-regarded for its high capacity and lasting durability.
Each option offers great quality and functionality to protect your electrical systems. Remember, it’s crucial to have a certified electrician install your panel to make sure it works safely and effectively.
