Breaker boxes or commonly called electrical panels are the modern day replacements for fuses boxes.  Breakers are the electrical devices that go into a panel or breaker box.  Breakers can easily be reset by flipping there switch versus having to unscrew and completely replace a fuse.  A circuit breaker can automatically open or trip upon an overload or a short circuit protecting the circuit and the appliances plugged into the circuit from possible damage.  For larger equipment such as those used in commercial or industrial applications switchgear is commonly used to protect and control equipment.

There is a lot of brands of breaker boxes or electrical panels on the market with some better than others.  Most breakers boxes on the market have been proven to be reliable and operate correctly and safely.  Brands such as Seimens, Square D, and Cutler-Hammer offer superior products and can provide the best protection possible with installed correctly.

Most brands that we currently know have safety and fire hazards have been pulled off the market.  However a lot of these brands that have been pulled off the market are in thousands and in some cases hundreds of thousands of homes across the nation.  One of the worst brands of electrical panels we see in the Des Moines market is Federal Pacific brand breaker boxes.  Federal Pacific panels were most commonly uses from 1960’s to the 1980’s.  These panels have circuit breakers that simply do not trip or open the circuit properly to provide the necessary protection.  Federal Pacific panels have been linked to countless fires and have even resulted in death.  If you have a Federal Pacific breaker box in your home we highly recommend it be replaced by a licensed electrician as soon as possible.  Another brand we advise immediate replacement on is Zinsco panels.  Certain types of Zinsco panels have been linked to several fires.  If you own a Zinsco panel we recommend it be replaced by an licensed electrician.

There are instances where NEC and other regulators recommend dedicated circuits for certain loads. Typical loads to put on individual branch circuits include sensitive electronic equipment such as computers. In addition, water heating systems, large appliances, and other high capacity loads that zap power require a dedicated circuit.

Run cables all the way to the main service panel and avoid connecting to other existing circuits. The same conductor size should be used throughout the branch circuit.

Electric water heaters, HVAC equipment, hot tubs and other appliances should each have a nearby disconnect that is easily visible and accessible. The power disconnect can be provided by the main or sub panel breaker, a dedicated switch, or a power cord that can be unplugged.

The branch circuits should have adequate current carrying capacity, adequate and grounding.

Typical branch currents include:

 A properly sized and decoratively coordinated entryway foyer fixture provides an opulent and brilliant introduction with just the right lighting effects.

 Even if your home is not made of glass, fine lighting shines through more than any other home accessory or decorative feature.  An attractive foyer fixture creates a welcoming atmosphere, while emitting generous ambient light for greeting guests safely into your home.

It is important to size and install your foyer lantern properly to make the most of your lighting composition.

To determine how big your foyer lantern should be, you must know your ceiling height. The overall height of a foyer fixture should allow for a clearance of at least 7 feet from the floor.

In a two-story foyer, if there is a picture window above the front door, center the foyer lantern so it can be seen from outside. If the foyer is extra-large, wall sconces make a nice accompaniment to add depth and supply additional illumination.

The latest lighting trends feature oversized fixtures.  Make a grand statement with a large foyer lantern for superb upscale illumination.  Foyer lanterns from Savoy House Lighting are captivating and superbly crafted, featuring original style, timeless elegance, and designer authenticity.

With an elite team of designers, Savoy House continues to create sophisticated award-winning light fixtures. Artistic innovations include works by Karyl Pierce Paxton, Raymond Waites and Brian Thomas—artists who command attention and brilliantly define the next generation in home illumination and décor.

The design team at Savoy House has propelled home lighting and décor to new heights by creating and defining light fixture fashions and novel lighting compositions for over 46 years.

Check out the latest collections to revamp your home entryway and welcome the Summer Season.

Trends may come and go, but fine quality and classic finishes endure throughout the ages. Keep in fashion with the latest in home lighting and accessories.  Look to Savoy House when renovating or updating your home lighting design for light fixtures, lamps and decorative accessories that are steadfast, strong and enduringly beautiful.