6 Factors for Choosing the Right Location for Your Smart Breaker
![Smart Breaker VS Fuse– What is the Difference& Which is Better?](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0581/8856/2611/files/20230719131052_480x480.png?v=1689744119)
Smart breakers are the latest innovation in electrical technology that allows you to monitor and control your home's electrical systems from your smartphone or tablet. Choosing the right location for your smart breaker is crucial to ensuring that your home's electrical system is safe and efficient. In this article, we will discuss the factors you should consider when choosing the location of your smart breaker.
6 Factors to Consider for Your Smart Breaker Location
1. Safety
![Safety](https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/01/18/23/59/insurance-1991226__340.jpg)
Safety is the primary concern when choosing the location of your smart breaker. It is recommended to install the smart breaker in a location that is easily accessible and well-ventilated. Avoid installing the breaker in damp or humid areas as it could lead to rust and corrosion, which could cause electrical fires.
Additionally, the smart breaker should be located in an area that is away from flammable materials such as wood or paper. It is recommended to install the breaker in a dedicated electrical room or closet that is free from clutter and other items that could pose a risk to safety.
2. Accessibility
Accessibility is another essential factor to consider when choosing the location of your smart breaker. The panel should be easily accessible to electricians, technicians, or anyone who needs to access it. The location should also be easily accessible for routine maintenance or repair work.
Moreover, the panel should be located in a position that provides sufficient clearance around it. It should be at least three feet away from any obstructions such as walls, furniture, or equipment. This will ensure that there is enough space to work, and it will also make it easier to check the breaker.
3. Power supply
![Power supply](https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2015/11/07/20/38/generator-1032627__340.png)
The location of the smart breaker should also be determined by the availability of the power supply. The breaker should be located in a position that is near the main power supply source, which is typically the electrical meter. This will ensure that there is no significant loss of energy as the power flows from the meter to the panel.
4. Wiring
The location of the smart breaker should also take into account the wiring needed to connect the panel to the electrical systems in your home. The panel should be installed in a location where the wiring can be easily routed and connected to the circuits in your home. This will ensure that the wiring is not exposed or in the way, and it will also help to prevent any damage to the wiring during installation.
5. Compatibility
When choosing the location of your smart breaker, it is essential to consider its compatibility with your home's electrical system. The panel should be compatible with your electrical systems and the circuits that it is meant to control.
It is recommended to consult with an experienced electrician. This is to determine the best location for your smart breaker. It is also to ensure that it is compatible with your home's electrical system.
6. WiFi Signal
The WiFi signal is an essential component of smart breakers, as it is required for the breakers to communicate and interact with other smart devices in a home or business setting. Smart breakers are capable of detecting changes in energy usage. They can also respond to these changes. In addition, they provide insight and control over a building's energy consumption.
With a strong WiFi signal, the breakers are able to send and receive information quickly, allowing the user to have better control over the energy being used in the building. Additionally, a strong WiFi signal is necessary. This is to ensure that the breakers are able to maintain a secure connection with the user's other smart devices.
Best Location for Smart Breaker
Considering the standards from the National Electric Code, there are a few potential spots to put an electrical panel. While the breaker box needs to be accessible, most people would prefer to have it hidden. Possible locations that would meet all the regulations include:
1. Garages
![Garages](https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2014/05/27/11/43/garage-355358__340.jpg)
Attached garages are the ideal spot for electrical panels due to the fact that they provide ample space to work safely and efficiently. This space allows workers to have enough room to move around. They can access the necessary tools and appliances needed to work on the panel. Additionally, the location of the garage allows the panel to remain relatively inconspicuous, as it is tucked away from the main living area of the home. Keeping the panel out of sight helps to maintain the aesthetic beauty of the home.
2. Basements
![Basements](https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/03/05/07/20/wine-1237335__340.jpg)
If you are looking for a place to install your electrical panel, the basement is likely the best option. It is usually further away from view compared to the garage, so it will be less likely to draw attention and create an eyesore. Additionally, the basement is usually more secure, providing some extra protection for your electrical panel and wiring. Furthermore, the basement typically offers more space, making it easier to access the panel and perform any necessary maintenance or repairs. Make sure to think about how you would locate the main breaker box in the dark during a power cut.
3. Under staircases
![Under staircases](https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2014/11/29/17/55/staircase-550601__340.jpg)
Although not the most common choice, certain stairwells have the capacity to provide adequate space and easy access for the installation of the electrical control board. This includes ensuring that the stairwell is wide enough to accommodate the control board, as well as ensuring that the control board can be accessed from the stairwell without any obstructions. Additionally, the stairwell must have a suitable location for the control board to be secured in place, such as being able to secure the board to the stairwell's support beams or walls.
4. Close to Your Router
![Close to Your Router](https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/07/10/13/25/router-5390678__340.png)
It is important to be as close to the router as possible when using WiFi in order to get the strongest connection. If you are too far away from the router, the signal may be weak or nonexistent, resulting in poor internet performance or a dropped connection. Additionally, the further you are from the router, the more likely you are to experience interference. Other electronic devices, such as microwaves or cordless phones, can also weaken the wifi signal.
It is common for homeowners to have breaker boxes located in less visible places. However, they can also be placed in more prominent parts of the home, as long as there is sufficient room. If you cannot use a basement or garage, there are ways to make the box look more aesthetically pleasing, like painting its door to match the existing décor.
Final Words
In conclusion, choosing the right location for your smart breaker is essential to ensure the safety, accessibility, and efficiency of your home's electrical system. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can select the perfect location for your smart breaker, and you can rest assured that your home's electrical system is in safe hands. AT-ELE is specialized with smart solution with smart breakers. If you still have some confusions, feel free to contact us.