Electrical Circuit Overloads at Home and How to Prevent Them

Electrical circuits are designed for handling a certain amount of electric current. Circuit overloads happen when you draw more electric power than the circuit can handle. These circuits comprise wiring, a breaker or fuse, and the device like light fixtures or appliances plugged into the outlet. The electrical consumption by each device (while functioning) adds to the total load on the circuit. When the rated load is exceeded, the wiring causes the circuit breaker to trip and that shuts off power to the entire circuit.

In the absence of breaker in a circuit, the overload could cause the wiring to get overheated that would melt the wire insulation and may also cause a fire. Different circuits have their own load ratings and this is why some circuits can handle more electric power than others. All home electrical systems are pre-designed to handle the typical household usage of appliances but at times we end up plugging too many or more powerful appliances in one circuit and that leads to an overload.

If you are planning to install new devices including home systems for access control & automation Melbourne, it is advisable to get the job done by experienced electricians who can check existing circuits and make changes to ensure that the system is compatible in the building and can take the extra load of new installations.

As house owner, you should also be aware of some common signs of overloads in circuits. The most common sign of overload is a breaker tripping and shutting off power for the entire house. That’s when you should take immediate action to remove any appliance that led to this tripping. Some other signs include:

• Lights getting dim especially when you turn on a particular appliance
• Buzzing in switches or power outlets
• Switch covers feeling warm to touch
• Burning odours from any power outlet or switch
• Scorched plugs and /or outlets
• Power tools, appliances, or electronic devices that seem to lack adequate power

Signs such as buzzing noise, burning odour and unusually warm appliances may also point towards other issues including short circuits and loose connections. When such problems occur get them resolved by a qualified electrician in Melbourne.

It is also important to understand that restricting usage of an appliance at the maximum load on circuit is not an ideal target. For safety it is good to stop the usage at 80% of the rated maximum load. As an example, for a 15-amp circuit, the load target should be restricted to 1440 watts and for a 20-amp circuit at 1920 watts.

House owners should also know the ways to prevent and reduce loads on electrical circuits. You can:

• Move newly plugged-in appliances to an electrical circuit that is not used very frequently
• Avoid turning on too many devices and lights at the same time �" Turn off the TV while using a vacuum cleaner and do not use the dishwasher and oven simultaneously in the kitchen.
• Reduce electricity loads by using more energy-efficient devices - replace incandescent or halogen light bulbs with energy-efficient LED or CFL bulbs.

With smart home trends spreading across the world, a growing number of families are opting for advanced electrical systems including CCTV, alarm & security Solutions Melbourne. The installations should be done by trained and experienced electricians who check the circuit capacities and make necessary adjustments before adding a new set-up.

Author's Note

Based in Melbourne, Vaultage Electrical & Security Solutions offers specialist services for electrical, security and audio-visual systems that are vital to the functioning of different appliances in homes and offices. We are committed to exceed the expectations of our clients at each of the projects entrusted to us.