What is the purpose of using service heads on overhead service entrance cables?

The purpose of using service heads on overhead service entrance cables primarily centers around their function in protecting the electrical system from environmental factors, particularly water. A service head effectively prevents rainwater from entering the service entrance conductors, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of the electrical installation. This water intrusion could lead to serious hazards such as short circuits or corrosion of electrical components.

While structural support, entry points for conductors, and ease of conductor removal are important aspects of overhead service installations, they do not encapsulate the primary purpose of a service head in the same way that water ingress prevention does. The design and positioning of service heads are specifically tailored to block water penetration while allowing the conductors to exit through their tops, contributing to both safety and reliability in electrical service installations.