We live in an era of increasing numbers of electrical devices in our homes. A few outlets used to suffice, but now outlets are everywhere, and they have power strips plugged into them to create even more outlets. It can be too easy for a home’s electrical system to become overloaded with all the power demand—especially from powerful appliances like refrigerators and HVAC systems.
Installing dedicated circuits is an electrical upgrade that can make a big difference for a home. These circuits are designed specifically for high-demand appliances, allowing them to operate independently of other circuits and preventing overloads in your home’s wiring. We install dedicated circuits in Navarre, FL and in this post, we’ll cover the reasons you might want this upgrade.
1. Protect Your Appliances and Electronics From Overloads
Each circuit in your home is designed to handle a certain amount of electricity. When too many devices are plugged into a single circuit, the electrical load can exceed the circuit’s capacity, leading to overheating and potential hazards. Overloaded circuits can cause circuit breakers to trip frequently and may even damage sensitive electronics or high-powered appliances.
Dedicated circuits allow specific appliances to have their own supply of power, preventing them from being affected by other devices on the same circuit. By doing so, they can help protect your valuable electronics and appliances from damage caused by surges and overloads.
2. Ensure Safety in Your Home
Overloaded circuits are a major cause of electrical fires, as excessive demand on a single circuit generates heat, which can damage wires and insulation over time. By assigning certain appliances to dedicated circuits, you reduce the risk of dangerous overheating and electrical fires.
3. Avoid Tripping the Circuit Breaker
When a circuit is overloaded, the breaker will trip to prevent potential overheating, but constant tripping is both inconvenient and a sign that you’ve got an outdated electrical system. Dedicated circuits help distribute power more evenly throughout your home’s electrical system, reducing the likelihood of overloaded circuits and nuisance breaker trips.
4. Comply With Electrical Code Requirements
Many homes, particularly older ones, may not meet the current electrical code requirements. The NEC mandates dedicated circuits for certain high-powered appliances and in specific locations, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. By ensuring your home’s wiring includes dedicated circuits for these appliances, you bring it in line with NEC standards and reduce the likelihood of future code violations.
5. Increase the Lifespan of Your Appliances
When an appliance shares a circuit with other devices, it may not receive the consistent flow of electricity it needs to function optimally. This can strain the appliance’s internal components and lead to premature wear and tear. Appliances like refrigerators, freezers, and HVAC units are particularly susceptible to issues caused by inconsistent power supply, as they rely on steady power to maintain their functions. With dedicated circuits, you can help extend the lifespan of your appliances.
6. Upgrade for Home Improvement Projects
As you plan home upgrades or additions, such as a renovated kitchen, new laundry room, or upgraded entertainment space, you may find that your current electrical system isn’t equipped to handle the extra load. Adding dedicated circuits for new appliances or electronics will help ensure that your home’s electrical system can safely support these additions.
If you’re considering adding dedicated circuits to your home, reach out to Peaden’s team of licensed electricians. We’re here to help assess your needs and make sure your electrical system is ready for the demands of modern living.