Have you ever tripped a circuit? Most people don’t think much about their fuse boxes until they trip the breaker and find themselves in the dark. While it may seem like an annoyance, overloading a circuit can actually be a huge risk. Prevent issues from arising by simply learning more about what it means to have a “dedicated circuit.”
What is a Dedicated Circuit?
A dedicated circuit is only used for one specific purpose. It is an electrical box that has a single purpose, such as supplying energy to the refrigerator. In this case, there would be no other electrical outlets that connect to the same circuit. It is also carefully matched to the appliance so that it has enough amperage to meet the needs of that appliance. As such, you cannot just blindly switch the appliances that are used on a particular dedicated circuit.
Risks of Overloading Your Circuits
Small risks include tripping the breaker or burning out an electrical outlet. Larger risks, though, include the potential for an electrical fire that could cause damage to your home or injury to your family members. Electrical fires are the number one cause of building fires every year, but they can be avoided with the right electrical maintenance.
Which Appliances Should Have a Dedicated Circuit?
The National Electrical Code recommends that almost every major appliance in your home has a dedicated circuit to prevent overload. The following appliances require a dedicated circuit:
- Electric range
- Refrigerator
- Water heater
- Heat pump
- Furnace
- Wall ovens
- Dishwasher
- Washing machine and dryer
If you are concerned that your major appliances are not connected to dedicated circuits, then it may be time to consult with a residential electrical service in Frederick, MD. Tim Kyle Electric can quickly assess the condition of your home’s wiring and ensure that your circuits can properly handle your appliances. This one safety check could save your home down the road, and is well worth the small service cost.