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We rely heavily on our properties’ electrical systems for countless daily activities. However, trying to get a circuit to provide power to too many devices and appliances can overload them. In this guide, we’ll discuss what happens when you overload a circuit and how to prevent it.
After reading about the causes and signs of a circuit overload, reach out to Crowe Electric to work with some of the best electricians in Massachusetts. Contact our skilled electrician in Hingham, MA, and see how our top-tier electrical team can promptly meet your needs!
What Causes Overloaded Electrical Circuits?
You might experience an overloaded circuit when you exceed your home’s electrical system’s rated load. Since an average household circuit rating is at about 20 amps, trying to plug in more items than a circuit can handle will lead to problems. The high amounts of power could lead to a breaker tripping, shut off fuses, or cause your appliances and devices to stop working as normal. Some of the most dangerous consequences of overloaded circuits include electrical fires from sparking wires.
Taking careful steps to prevent circuit overload is essential to protect you and your loved ones and to preserve your appliances. Many people discover they have drawn too much power from their circuit when it is too late. However, staying informed can help you avoid an overload.
Understanding Electrical Circuits and Amperage Ratings
Every item that needs power from a circuit draws electricity. Each circuit on your property has a limit on the amount of electricity it can handle. When electrical demands are higher than the circuit’s rated load (you will often find this information on the handle), the breaker can trip, or a fire would break out if the breaker is faulty.
Now that you know what happens when you overload a circuit, you can establish a greater insight into your own circuit situation. Explore your property to see how many circuits you have and what appliances and devices are relying on them. Now, it’s time to see how your electrical behavior matches up to what your circuit can handle.
Consider the following steps to calculate circuit loads:
- Determine the amperage rating of your circuit.
- Multiply the rating by 120 to determine the maximum wattage.
- Calculate 80% of the maximum wattage, as staying under this number is key for safety.
- Keep your eye on how many watts each appliance and device uses.
Common Signs of an Electrical Circuit Overload
Taking action when dealing with an electrical overload is essential. Fortunately, these problems don’t stay hidden for too long. If you have an circuit overload at your property, you’re likely to notice the following major warning signs.
Loud and Unexpected Noises
Strange sounds coming from your outlets is unusual but can indicate overheating wires, arcing, and internal breakdowns. You could notice buzzing or popping. You may hear something burning and sizzling, and should shut off power to the area immediately.
Burnt Plugs and Outlets and Smoky Odors
Do you smell something burning from your outlet or lights? This sometimes pairs with charred or blackened outlets or plugs from excessive heat. Sometimes, these scenarios happen with short circuiting or another type of electrical problem.
You should not continue to use plugs, outlets, or lights that smell strange or look burnt, which is basic electrical safety. Immediately call a trusted electrician in your area to take a closer look.
Problems Using Your Lights
If your lights are always flickering or shutting off when you use other electrical appliances in your home, you could have a circuit overload.
What You Can Do To Prevent a Circuit Overload
Some tips for avoiding circuit overloads are:
- Understand your circuit’s electrical load
- Only use extension cords for short terms
- Only plug appliances into outlets
- Keep kitchen appliances on separate outlets
- Don’t plug in too many electronics at once
Connect With Crowe Electric for Electrical Panel Repair in Norwell, Massachusetts!
Knowing what happens when you overload a circuit is crucial information for every property owner, helping you combat electrical fires and breaker problems. If you have concerns about the circuits, breakers, and electrical panels in your Massachusetts home, our business can help. Our staff supplies a large range of affordable and professional electrical service offerings and is prepared to assist you.
Call Crowe Electric at (781) 678-8266 for reliable electrical services in Norwell, MA!
