An overloaded circuit can be a big problem if it happens in your home. It could damage your electronics or shut off power to part of your home. It can even cause a fire. So, you should try to prevent an overloaded circuit from happening when possible. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent these overloads, and we will explain some of these in this article.
What Are Circuit Overloads and Why Do They Occur?
A circuit overload occurs when too much current flows through your home’s wiring. Often, this happens due to excessive demand for electricity occurring over a single circuit. This might happen if you use too much electricity in a room at one time. If family members are running a carpet cleaner, a stereo, a computer, and an electric fireplace all in one room, it could overload a circuit.
How To Prevent Circuit Overloads
It is actually not very difficult to prevent circuit overloads. It just takes a little bit of effort. Here are a few steps you can take to help avoid circuit overload.
Make Sure Your Devices Are Spread Across Several Circuits
It is easy to cause an overload if you have a number of devices on the same circuit, especially if you run them all at once and they use a lot of electricity. But, you can decrease the chances of an overload by making sure that not all of your devices are on the same circuit. If you spread your devices out across several circuits, you are less likely to have an overloaded circuit, even if you use your devices at the same time.
Arrange a Safety Evaluation
If you find that the circuits in your home are frequently overloaded, it would be best to arrange a safety evaluation. There might be something wrong beyond using too many devices, and it would be best to have an electrician check and fix any possible safety issues.
Have a Dedicated Circuit Installed
If you have a device you regularly use that uses a lot of power, it might be best to have an electrician install a dedicated circuit installed. These circuits are often used for appliances such as dishwashers, air conditioners, washers, dryers, and other large appliances. Having a dedicated circuit for these appliances could help prevent overloads and make it easier for you to use your other devices.
Upgrade Your Homes Circuit Breakers
It is possible that the electrical panel that contains the circuit breakers for your home is outdated. Newer models often provide more power in a safer manner. This could decrease circuit overload.
Circuit overloads are not only inconvenient, but they can also be a safety concern. We discussed some things you could do to help avoid these overloads in this article. But, if you continue to have problems, it is always best to be safe and have an electrician check for safety problems.
Contact Us
If you would like more information on circuit overloads or would like to make an appointment for an electrician to do a safety evaluation, call Clark Electric at 844-431-8050 or connect with us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
