Appliance Circuits / Dedicated Circuits

Do you trip a breaker every time you plug in your hair dryer or use your toaster? This common annoyance could be an indicator that your appliance isn’t receiving enough power to operate safely without overloading your system.

The National Electric Code requires major appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers to have their own dedicated circuit. An appliance with a dedicated circuit has its own circuit breaker in your electrical box. No other appliance should utilize energy from this circuit. It is “dedicated” to this single appliance. They are installed to ensure major appliances have the energy they need to function properly and not overload the system.

FAQ

Why do I need dedicated circuits in my home?

When you have dedicated circuits installed, you are not only protecting your appliances, you are protecting your family and your home.

When large appliances share energy with other appliances, a circuit may draw more current than it can handle. The result can be tripped breakers and blown fuses. If an appliance is wired to a dedicated circuit with an incorrect wire size or inadequate amperage, it could overheat and possibly cause an electrical fire. Main Stream Electric understands the importance of wiring your appliances safely and correctly. They can evaluate your wiring system and provide the best solutions for all your appliance wiring.

My breakers are constantly tripping! Is this a sign I need a dedicated circuit installed?

Probably. According to the National Electrical Code, every fixed appliance needs a dedicated (not shared with any other appliance) circuit. If your breaker is tripping, it’s a good indication your appliance needs a dedicated circuit. Additionally, if your appliance has a motor, it usually requires its own circuit. Contact Main Stream Electric and we will come check your home’s circuits and determine if a dedicated circuit needs to be installed.

Could you give me a list of the most common appliances that may need a dedicated circuit?

Sure! The following is a list of many of the common appliances that need a dedicated circuit.

• Electric ranges
• Wall ovens
• Refrigerators
• Microwaves
• Freezers
• Dishwashers
• Garbage disposals
• Washers
• Dryers
• Space heaters
• Heating and air conditioning units
• Furnaces
• Water heaters
• Garage door openers
• Water pumps
• Central vacuums
• Whirlpools/Jacuzzis/hot tubs/saunas

The expert residential electrical technicians at Main Stream Electric can safely handle all your dedicated appliance circuit questions. We can evaluate and install dedicated circuits, ensuring your home is running safely and effectively at all times. Contact our Sacramento or San Jose residential electricians today.