Whether you’ve just moved into a new house or you’re performing home upgrades, looking into your electrical wiring is always a good practice to ensure safety and efficiency. Older homes may have wiring issues that could present hazards. For instance, modern electrical regulations require specific appliances to have dedicated circuits, which are explained below.

What Is a Dedicated Circuit?

A dedicated circuit has its own individual circuit breaker and is reserved for a single appliance. This ensures appliances that require a considerable amount of electricity can get the power they need to run.

Some appliances may draw more current than the circuit can accommodate, causing blown fuses and problems with electrical wiring, such as overheating and fires. Having dedicated circuits installed for key appliances is a critical safety measure.

Which Appliances Should Be on a Dedicated Circuit?

The National Electric Code calls for dedicated circuits for several large appliances. Yet, many homeowners are also surprised to discover several smaller appliances also need their own circuits.

For instance, kitchen items such as ovens, electric ranges, refrigerators, and dishwashers need their own circuits. Yet, microwaves, toasters, and garbage disposals also need dedicated circuits.

Throughout the rest of the home, any other large appliances should also have their own electrical wiring and circuits. This includes washers and dryers and water pumps. Don’t forget about your heating and cooling systems, either. Furnaces, water heaters, heating and air conditioning units, and even space heaters should all have dedicated circuits.

If you need electrical wiring services for your home, turn to RM Electrical. Serving St. Clair, Monroe, and Madison counties, IL, this family-owned and -operated team offers fair pricing and expert services for a broad range of electrical projects, including new wiring and remodels. Explore their full list of residential and corporate services online or call (618) 939-0422 to request a free estimate.