Do you trip a breaker when you use a hairdryer or make your morning toast? If you’re experiencing this on a consistent basis, your outlets may not be wired properly.

 

 

Dedicated circuits are required by the National Electrical Code for major electrical appliances, including stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers and space heaters. Dedicated circuits help provide sufficient power so appliances can operate safely, without overloading your electrical system.

 

 

What is a Dedicated Circuit?

A dedicated circuit is a circuit in your electric box (service panel) with its own circuit breaker that serves a single appliance or electrical fixture. No other appliance, fixture, light or outlet can be plugged into or use the energy from this circuit, making it “dedicated” to that single appliance.

 

They are most commonly required for appliances that have motors to ensure that they have plenty of power for the start-up load and to run at peak performance.

 

 

Dedicated circuits ensure major appliances have plenty of electrical power to draw from, without overloading your system, blowing a fuse or tripping a circuit breaker.

 

 

Many appliances require installation of dedicated circuits.

 

There are two types of dedicated circuits for medium to heavy-duty appliances:

 

 

20 Amp Dedicated Circuit - For mid-range, small appliances like hair dryers and toasters.

 

30-50 Amp Dedicated Circuits - For ranges, dryers or larger electrical appliances.