Types of Circuits in an Electrical Panel

After electricity passes through the main circuit breaker, smaller individual circuits provide power to sections of your home.

Circuit breakers that are 1 slot wide with one switch are called single pole circuit breakers and typically have values of 15 or 20 amperes and carry a voltage of 110-120 Volts. Circuit breakers that are 2 slots wide with two switches linked together are called double pole circuit breakers and typically have ratings larger than 20 Amperes. Double pole circuit breakers carry a voltage of 220-240 Volts and are typically used for high demand appliances like an electric clothes dryer, electric stove, or air conditioner.