What distinguishes a branch circuit from a feeder circuit?

A branch circuit is specifically designed to supply power directly to end devices such as lights, outlets, and appliances. These circuits are usually found in residential and commercial wiring and are responsible for delivering electrical energy where it is needed for consumption.

In contrast, a feeder circuit functions to distribute power to multiple branch circuits. A feeder connects the main source of electrical power, such as a service panel, to branch circuit panels, without delivering power to end devices directly. Instead, it facilitates the distribution of electrical energy to various branch circuits, which then provide power to individual appliances or lighting fixtures.

This distinction emphasizes the role of each circuit type in an electrical system, with the branch circuit focusing on delivering electricity to the end-use devices, while the feeder circuit is more about distributing the electricity throughout the system effectively. Understanding this relationship is crucial for electrical design and installation, ensuring that the systems are well-organized and functional without overloading any single circuit.