You don’t need to do a lot of deciding regarding which appliances should be on a dedicated circuit. The simple fact is that the government has regulations regarding wiring protocols, circuit loading, and which appliances need their own circuit.
It should be noted that, if you need a new circuit, dedicated or not, you should contact a reputable Sydney electrician. The regulations don’t allow for you to do this type of work yourself at home.
However, it does help to know which appliances should have a dedicated circuit:
- Stoves
- Electric fires
- Freezers
- Water heater
- Dishwasher
- Washing machine
- Dryer
- Electric car charging point
- Pool pump
- Garbage disposal unit
- Outbuildings
This is not an exhaustive list, there are other things that need a dedicated circuit but the above are the most common ones in a home.
Why A Dedicated Circuit?
Electrical wiring usually consists of three cables, one is life, one neutral, and the other the earth. These need to be properly connected for your appliances to work. The earth is especially important to reduce the risk of shocks. In most cases, 2.5mm cable is used and it can handle between 8-12 sockets on one circuit.
However, when the electricity goes through the wires to creates heat. If there is too much current passing through the wires then the heat can cause the outer protective casing to melt. This exposes the wires, causing short circuits and potentially starting a fire. In fact, the heat of the wire alone can cause a fire.
The appliances that are on dedicated services are either things that are on all the time or they have a higher than average current draw.
This increases the likelihood of a circuit is overloaded and fire starting.
To protect your appliance and your property from fire, these appliances are placed on a dedicated circuit.
What To Do If Your Appliance Isn’t On A Dedicated Circuit
If you have an electrical inspection when you purchase or rent a home and then have one done every year, your electrician will spot the issue and will install the required dedicated circuits for you.
Even if you don’t have an annual inspection but realize you need a dedicated circuit, you can contact a local professional to get one installed as quickly as possible.
While it may be tempting to install the circuit yourself, you should be aware that electricity is dangerous and you can get plenty of electricity problems. In addition, it is against current regulations which means your insurance company may not honor your insurance if you need to claim. That’s going to cost you a lot more than paying an electrician to do the job for you.
Of course, the professionals also offer guarantees and warranties to ensure you have the best service and peace of mind in your own home. It is better not to risk it and have a dedicated circuit fitted.
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