Whether or not to cover your electrical panel is a common question for many homeowners. The electrical panel, also known as the breaker box, is the central hub that distributes electricity throughout the home. Some homeowners prefer to hide the electrical panel behind a cover or door for aesthetic reasons, while others believe an uncovered panel allows for easier access and maintenance. There are pros and cons to both approaches that are important to consider.
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What is an electrical panel?
The electrical panel is a metal box that contains circuit breakers and wires that distribute electricity from the main power lines into different circuits throughout the home. The panel protects the house from electrical issues like power surges and overloads. It usually contains the following components:
- Main breaker: This is the master switch that controls power to the whole panel and house.
- Individual circuit breakers: These control power and provide overload protection to specific circuits for areas/appliances in the home such as lighting, outlets, HVAC system, etc.
- Neutral and ground bus bars: These provide return pathways for electricity.
- Cable/wire connections: Cables from the utility company and wires from the house circuits are connected here.
In most modern homes, the electrical panel is located indoors, either in the basement, utility room, garage, or closet. Older homes may still have electrical panels located on the exterior of the house.
Should you cover the electrical panel?
Reasons to cover the panel
There are a few reasons why homeowners commonly choose to cover their electrical panels:
- Aesthetics – Electrical panels are bulky metal boxes that can be unsightly. Covering them can improve the look of the room and provide a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.
- Safety – Covering the panel prevents accidental contact with live electrical wires, reducing risk of shocks or electrocution.
- Deter tampering – A closed panel cover prevents curious children or unauthorized people from accessing the panel and circuit breakers.
- Dust protection – Covering the panel prevents dust buildup on the components inside, extending its life.
- Noise reduction – The hum or buzz from electrical panels can be lowered by closing it off in an enclosure.
Homeowners may choose from different options to cover a panel, such as a solid door, lattice panel, or plexiglass cover. The cover can be mounted directly over the panel or a few inches away to allow space for breakers to be shut off with the cover still closed.
Reasons not to cover the panel
On the other hand, there are also some good reasons why many homeowners choose to leave their electrical panels uncovered:
- Improved access and visibility – An uncovered panel allows full access to the breakers, and any issues can be identified at a glance.
- Easier maintenance and repairs – An electrician can service an uncovered panel faster without needing to open/remove a cover.
- Enhanced cooling – Circuit breakers and other components may cool better without an enclosure trapping heat inside.
- Prevents moisture buildup – Humid or damp air can become trapped within a covered panel, leading to corrosion.
- Reduces fire hazard – An uncovered panel does not run the risk of flammable materials or vapors being trapped near electrical components.
Overall, the convenience and safety of an uncovered panel often outweigh aesthetics. But ultimately it comes down to personal preference.
Factors to consider when deciding
When deciding whether or not to cover an electrical panel, there are several important factors to take into account:
Panel location
Consider where in the home your electrical panel is located:
- If positioned in a basement, garage or utility area away from living spaces, there may be less motivation to cover it.
- If located in an occupied room like a kitchen, bedroom or living area, a cover may be desired for appearance.
Accessibility needs
Think about required access to the panel:
- If breakers need to be flipped frequently, uncovered access is better.
- If rarely accessed, a cover may not impact use much.
Aesthetic preferences
Decide how important appearance is:
- In remodeled rooms or luxury homes, covers improve aesthetics.
- In basic or secondary rooms, uncovered panels may be more acceptable.
Homeowner abilities
Consider your own comfort level:
- If you are unfamiliar with electrical systems, a cover provides an extra layer of safety and protection.
- If you are knowledgeable and capable, an uncovered panel allows you to monitor and maintain it.
Local building codes
Check if your jurisdiction requires panels to be:
- Left uncovered for inspector access.
- Covered to meet safety standards.
Knowing the regulations in place can prevent permitting issues down the road if renovating or selling the home.
Best practices for covering panels
If you do opt to cover your electrical panel, there are some best practices to follow:
- Only use UL-rated covers designed for electrical panels.
- Never totally enclose or seal the panel – allow some airflow.
- Leave at least 30 inches of clearance in front of the panel.
- Ensure covers can be easily removed and do not require tools.
- Use non-combustible cover materials like metal or plexiglass.
- Avoid locking panel covers unless children are present.
Covers should be considered removable rather than permanent. Remember that access to the full panel may be necessary down the road for maintenance, upgrades or emergencies.
Example panel cover options
There are many products on the market to cover an electrical panel in a safe yet aesthetically pleasing way. Some options include:
Decorative doors
Decorative doors mount directly over the panel to hide it. They come in materials like wood, metal, and composite:
- Pros: Very discreet, blends seamlessly into wall.
- Cons: Needs to be removed fully for panel access.
Ventilated covers
Ventilated covers allow airflow while concealing components:
- Pros: Provides safety with some visibility and ventilation.
- Cons: Obstructs access slightly.
Plexiglass shields
Plexiglass or acrylic sheets are transparent panel covers:
- Pros: Allows for unobstructed visibility and access.
- Cons: Less discreet than other options.
Lattice or mesh panels
Decorative latticework or mesh hides the panel contents:
- Pros: Partially conceals panel while still allowing airflow.
- Cons: Breakers remain partially visible.
Cost of covering a panel
The cost to cover an electrical panel can vary widely, with estimates ranging from $50 on the low end to over $1000 for high-end installations. The final cost depends on factors like:
- Cover material (wood, metal, plexiglass, etc.)
- Cover size to fit your panel dimensions
- Ease of installation based on your home’s construction
- Electrician fees if wiring changes are needed
- Customization level and embellishments like trims or finishes
Some ballpark costs for common panel cover options include:
| Cover Type | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Basic metal ventilated cover | $75 – $150 |
| Decorative wooden door | $200 – $500 |
| Plexiglass panel | $100 – $250 |
| Custom designer decorative cover | $500 – $1000+ |
Homeowners wishing to cover their electrical panels should carefully weigh the benefits and downsides and account for all costs involved before proceeding.
Conclusion
The choice of whether to cover your home’s electrical panel or leave it exposed is mainly an aesthetic decision, provided some safety guidelines are followed. Covering the panel can provide a cleaner appearance in visible areas of the home, while an uncovered panel allows for easier maintenance access. There are good arguments on both sides. Homeowners should consider their own preferences and needs, while following best practices like allowing for airflow and easy removal of any covers installed. With the right approach, electrical panels can be modified to blend seamlessly into any room’s look and feel.