What is a Feeder?
A feeder is a critical component in electrical distribution systems, responsible for carrying power from the main service panel, transformer, or substation to branch circuits, panels, or specific loads. Feeders are designed to handle high currents and are essential in both residential and commercial electrical systems.
In HVAC applications, feeders supply power to air conditioning units, furnaces, and other heating and cooling equipment. Proper sizing and protection of feeders are crucial to prevent voltage drops, overheating, and electrical faults.
Feeders are typically protected by overcurrent devices such as circuit breakers or fuses to ensure safety. They are installed using different wiring methods, including conduit, busbars, and underground cables, depending on the building’s electrical design.
Electricians must carefully design feeder systems to comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, ensuring safe and efficient power distribution to various electrical loads.
