Overloaded circuits are a common household problem that can lead to electrical fires, damage to home electronics and appliances, and inconvenient power outages. Understanding what causes overloaded circuits and taking preventive measures can save you time, money, and stress.
What Is an Overloaded Circuit?
An overloaded circuit occurs when too many electrical devices are plugged into a single circuit, drawing more current than the circuit can safely handle. It can happen gradually as you add more appliances to your home, or it can happen suddenly if you plug in too many high-wattage devices at once.
How to Tell if a Circuit Is Overloaded
There are several things that could indicate an overloaded circuit:
- Tripped circuit breakers
- Dimming or flickering lights
- Warm outlets or switches
- Buzzing or crackling sounds
- A burning smell coming from outlets or switches
- Getting a shock when touching a switch or something plugged into an outlet
All of these signs can also result from things like damaged wiring or outlets, or a larger problem with your circuit breakers or electrical panel. However, the most common cause is an overloaded circuit breaker. If you try the fixes below and still notice flickering lights, warm outlets, or buzzing noises, it’s time to call an electrician for help.
If you suspect an overloaded circuit, you can also test to find out for sure. The most straightforward method for how to test if a circuit is overloaded is to use a multimeter. Multimeters measure amps, so, if you attach one to your circuit and the amps are higher than what the circuit is rated for, you know you have an issue.
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How to Prevent Overloaded Circuits
Not only can an overloaded outlet or circuit be annoying and inconvenient, it can also be dangerous. More than 47,000 home fires per year are caused by circuit overload, resulting in hundreds of deaths and millions of dollars in property damage. Here’s what you can do to prevent this issue in your home:
- Avoid plugging too many devices into one outlet.
- Use power strips sparingly and avoid overloading them.
- Distribute high-wattage appliances across different circuits to spread out the load.
- Unplug devices when not in use.
- Consider contacting an electrician to install additional outlets or circuits.
- Regularly inspect outlets and wiring for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cords or loose connections.
How to Fix a Circuit Overload
If you’re dealing with an overloaded electrical outlet or circuit, the first step is to reset the tripped circuit breaker. However, if the circuit breaker trips repeatedly, it's important to unplug whatever you can from the circuit and call a professional electrician to diagnose the problem.
C.M. Mose & Son is your trusted partner for all your electrical needs in the Kansas City area. Our experienced electricians can identify and resolve overloaded circuit issues, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home's electrical system. Contact us online or call (816) 339-5190 to schedule an appointment!