An electrical circuit rated for 15 or 20 amps is more than capable of powering a slew of lights and appliances for the most part. To handle the load, there are many scenarios where a dedicated circuit that powers just one appliance is required, however. Below, we at Simon Electric listed a few appliances that require a dedicated electrical circuit for peak performance and peace of mind.
Do You Need a Dedicated Circuit for a Washing Machine?
A 120-volt receptacle rated for 20 amps will do the job while a standard washing machine draws a fair amount of power. A special 30-amp GFCI outlet can be used to power it and the washer sitting nearby if you have a gas dryer. To ensure safe and reliable operation, an electric dryer will require its own dedicated 240-volt circuit rated for 30 amps.
Does a Stove have to Be on its Own Circuit?
Some of the most power-hungry appliances found in a home are electric ranges. A 240-volt circuit rated for 50 amps is required with virtually every stove on the market. Onto a circuit that powers an electric oven using commonly available breakers and conduit, there is no way to safely add another appliance. When pushed to its performance limit, a typical stove can draw up to 5,000 watts.
Do Dishwashers Need to Be on a Dedicated Circuit?
A standard 15-amp circuit using a 14/2 NM conduit is more than capable of powering an off-the-rack dishwasher in most cases. A 20-amp breaker and 12/2 wire are a must if you plan on powering a garbage disposal unit using the same circuit. Depending on the local building codes in your particular jurisdiction, a GFCI outlet is highly recommended and may be required.
Can I Plug My Microwave into a Regular Outlet?
A dedicated 120-volt circuit with a 20-amp breaker for safe operation is necessary for most common microwaves found in American kitchens. When running at peak power, many microwaves produce as much as 1,500 watts. A GFCI outlet may be required, depending on where the microwave is located. A microwave mounted in a cabinet shouldn’t require GFCI protection for example.
Can a Refrigerator Be Plugged into Any Outlet?
A 120-volt circuit rated for 20 amps is recommended since refrigerators can use up to 15 amps on occasion. When it kicks on, a compressor can draw a surprising amount of power for a short period of time. If it’s within 6 feet of a sink or located in an unfinished basement or a garage, adding a GFCI outlet is a good idea.
Does a Water Heater Need its Own Circuit?
A dedicated 240-volt circuit controlled by a double-pole breaker rated for 30 amps is required for a garden variety electric water heater. Minimum wiring requirements vary based on the unit in question if you have a tankless water heater. Also, certain all-electric tankless models can draw up to 100 amps. Gas-fired, on-demand water heaters don’t use as much juice, they still require a dedicated circuit.
Electrical Wiring, Fixture Installations & More in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County, Florida
Whether you are looking to have dedicated circuits or require other electrical services in the Greater Palm Beach County, FL area, the professionals of Simon Electric is readily available to assist you! Call us for all your electrical needs.
