If the heat in a distribution cabinet is not dissipated in a timely manner, the consequences can range from minor efficiency losses to catastrophic hardware failure. Electrical boxes—whether found in basements, attics, or walls—are designed to safely manage your home's electricity. But when things go wrong, box overheating can be both dangerous and costly. Outdoor. The board is hot, breakers smell, and I feel worried; this pain sits until I act and seek a fix. Checking load diversity, tightening connections, and reviewing the. Electrical distribution boards are the heart of any power system, directing electricity to various circuits. When electricity moves. The electrical panel, often called a breaker box, serves as the central distribution point for all electricity entering a home.