How to Prevent Electrical Circuit Overloads

Electrical Circuit Overloads: The Causes and Risks

An electrical circuit overload is just as its name suggests: this phenomenon happens when too much electricity runs in an electrical circuit. It can be caused by connecting too many large appliances to a single circuit, faulty wiring, inadequate electrical panel capacity, and/or improper use of extension cords.
Electrical circuit overloads can lead to a range of issues, from inconvenience to serious safety hazards. When the demand for electricity exceeds the capacity of a circuit, it can result in overheating, electrical fires, and damage to electrical equipment. 
Overloaded circuits can even cause circuit breakers to trip or fuses to blow, interrupting the power supply and potentially leaving areas of your property without electricity.

What to Do About Electrical Circuit Overloads

If your lights flicker when you plug in a device or run an appliance, then you likely have an electrical circuit near or past its limit. Unplug electronics and other things that may be overloading the circuit and plug them into another circuit. Sometimes, the overload may be so severe that it trips the circuit breaker OFF.
If a circuit breaker is constantly tripping OFF, then DON’T force it back on every time! Circuit breakers are meant to protect the circuit from electrical damage and reduce the risk of further damage. A frequently-tripping circuit is a sign of underlying electrical issues that should be addressed by an experienced electrician. Call Mr. Electric to consult with a member of our team.

Preventing Electrical Circuit Overloads

There’s no point in crying over spilled milk. Be proactive to prevent issues in the first place. Here are some preventative measures to consider:

• Be aware of the electrical load capacity of each circuit in your home or business.
• Distribute the electrical load evenly across circuits, ensuring that no single circuit is overwhelmed with excessive demand.
• Employ surge protectors or power strips with built-in circuit breakers to protect sensitive electronics from power surges.
• Avoid daisy-chaining power strips or extension cords.

It’s important to note that your electrical panel may be the problem itself. If your property has an outdated electrical panel, consider upgrading to one with a higher amperage capacity to accommodate modern electricity needs.

Hire a Uniformed Electrician

Whether you need a quick electrical repair or a circuit breaker replacement, the uniformed electricians at Mr. Electric are ready, willing, and able to help. Call us today to speak with a live representative. We are happy to schedule a convenient appointment or arrange an urgent dispatch.