Dedicated Circuit Installation In Charleston
Flickering lights and tripped circuit breakers are inconvenient, but they may also indicate that your home’s electrical system is overloaded. To avoid potential hazards, have our electricians install dedicated circuits for your major appliances.
How Dedicated Circuits Work
If you live in the Charleston historic district or in an older suburban home, the existing electrical circuits may not be adequate for current needs. According to the Consumer Electronics Association, the average American family owns 24 electronic devices, and recent surveys show that appliances and electronics now account for one-third of residential energy use. Many of these gadgets and household tools use more than 1,500 watts of power, which means that they require dedicated electrical circuits.
Although a 15-amp breaker can handle up to 1,800 watts, the National Electrical Code requires all circuits and wiring to be rated at 125 percent of the maximum continuous load. Otherwise, the circuit might become overloaded, which can generate excessive heat. If you find that you’re running out of outlets or tripping breakers, increasing the capacity of your home’s electrical circuits will redistribute the current to avoid these safety hazards.
Appliances That Need Dedicated Circuits
Installing circuits rated at 20, 30 or 50 amps is the most effective way to protect major appliances and avoid dangerous overheating. Smaller 15- and 20-amp circuits are suitable for hair dryers, stand mixers or power tools. Dedicated outlets for portable appliances are typically installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. Larger 30-amp circuits are used for dryers and water heaters, and 50-amp circuit breakers are required for electric ranges. These appliances generally use special three- or four-prong receptacles and heavy-gauge wires. As a rule of thumb, appliances that contain a motor should have a dedicated circuit. Here are a few examples.
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Garage door openers
- Dishwashers and garbage disposals
- Heating and cooling units
- Hot tubs and whirlpools
- Microwaves, ovens, and ranges
- Refrigerators
- Sump pumps
- Water heaters
Circuit and Wiring Services in Charleston
For safety reasons, electrical projects that involve modifying your home’s circuits and wiring should be performed by a licensed professional. Our electricians will secure any necessary permits and ensure that the work complies with all code requirements for your home in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville, North Charleston, and surrounding areas.
To see if your appliances would benefit from a dedicated circuit, contact Mister Sparky® of Charleston today to schedule an inspection. We’ll be happy to assess your home’s electrical system and provide an estimate for any recommended upgrades. We offer straightforward pricing, and a 100-percent satisfaction guarantee. We are determined to provide customer service excellence that exceeds your expectations.
