Overloaded circuits are a common issue in our device-heavy modern homes. However, they are also one of the most dangerous. Overloaded electrical circuits can fry your powered devices, cut power to portions of your home, and even result in a fire. As a result, an electrical overload is something you definitely want to avoid.
Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to help prevent electrical circuit overloads from happening. Keep reading to figure out what steps you can take to keep overloads from happening.
Have an Electrician Evaluate Your Wiring
If your home has had a number of electrical circuit overloads, it may not be your fault. Old or damaged wiring may be the cause, and this could result in an even greater risk of damage or fire. If this is the case, it is a good idea to have a licensed electrician come in and evaluate your wiring for safety.
Distribute Your Devices
The simplest step you can take to prevent electrical circuit overloads from happening is to avoid placing too many devices on a single circuit. Instead of placing too many devices or appliances into a single outlet or room, try spreading them throughout your home.
In most cases, this will help to ensure that they aren’t all powered by the same circuit when they need to be operated. Often this will be enough to prevent placing too much demand on any one circuit.
Use Dedicated Circuits
For devices with particularly high power demands, consider using dedicated circuits. These circuits provide power on their own circuit for particularly high-demand devices such as air conditioners, electric ranges, dishwashers, and other appliances.
This isolates the devices onto their own circuit, preventing their power draw from interfering with other appliances and devices you may run on other circuits.
Consider Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
Sometimes dealing with the issue at the source may be the way to go, and the source of all the circuits in your home comes back to your electrical panel. Each of the circuits in your home is connected to circuit breakers which are located in your electrical panel.
In some cases, the connections between your panel or circuits may be corroded, or your panel may simply be unable to handle the draw in your home. No matter what the issue is, an upgraded electrical panel can often offer better power and may be the solution to preventing circuit overloads.
Final Thoughts
Circuit overloads can damage electrical devices, create a considerable nuisance, and prove dangerous to your home and safety. By following the tips above, often, these issues can be avoided, and the result of underlying electrical issues solved. Make sure that you work with a professional electrician whenever work is being performed on electrical lines, particularly when working with electrical panels.
Contact Us
For help solving your home’s electrical issues, contact Clark Electric. Our licensed and experienced electricians are ready to help you with high-quality electrical services. Call us at (844) 431-8050 and connect with us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
