Many electronics and small appliances can be plugged into ordinary outlets in your home without a problem. However, for some heavy-duty appliances that draw a lot of power, an electrician should install a dedicated circuit. If you're working with an electrical contractor to build or update a home, ensure you have places to plug in the following appliances.

Devices That Need a Separate Breaker

1. Oven

An electric range usually draws 40 to 50 amps, with some ranges requiring even more power. This is at the top end of what even heavy-duty dedicated circuits can handle, so don’t skimp here.

2. Hot Water Heater

Often located in the basement, a water heater is an appliance that runs day and night. Its heating elements are usually rated for about 20 amps, meaning they need one of the smaller sizes of a dedicated circuit.

3. Refrigerator

Besides the oven, the fridge draws the most energy in the kitchen. Since other appliances in this room generally use the same amount of power, consider separate circuits for the microwave and toaster; these fall in the middle range of amperage.

4. Heating & Cooling Equipment

When installing a new air conditioner or even using a space heater, consult an electrician about whether the outlets are up to the task. The answer will vary depending on the size of the appliance you've chosen. Small heaters generally are appropriate for wall outlets, but a large HVAC system will require its own breaker.

5. Sump Pump

While you may not pay much attention to this basement device, it needs its own circuit, too. It's not as powerful as the other appliances listed, but its unusual location dictates how it’s wired. Therefore, homeowners are usually unable to plug it into an ordinary outlet.

If you need an electrician to update your home with dedicated circuits for appliances, choose E-Con Electric, Inc. Based in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, they serve residential clients within a 60-mile radius and commercial clients throughout the state. Their knowledgeable, certified, dependable electricians provide up-to-code installations and repairs. To schedule a visit, call (715) 423-8440. Explore their services further online.