What is a load center commonly known as?

A load center is commonly known as an electrical panel or breaker box, which serves as the main hub for distributing electrical power throughout a building. It contains circuit breakers or fuses that protect electrical circuits from overloads and faults, allowing for safe operation of various electrical devices and systems.

The terminology reflects its primary function, which is to manage and distribute electrical loads to different areas within a structure. The terms "electrical panel" and "breaker box" specifically highlight the presence of circuit breakers that can be manually reset or replaced, an essential feature for ensuring safety and ease of maintenance in electrical systems.

Other terms may refer to similar components in electrical systems but do not specifically capture the full scope of what a load center does; for instance, "service panel" is a broader term that can encompass any panel receiving power from the utility company, while "distribution board" is more common in certain regions and typically refers to larger systems or applications. Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the key features of a load center.