Kitchen Electricity Requires Careful Consideration

Few homeowners realize it, but the fact of the matter is the kitchen is often the most “power-hungry” room in the entire residence. Many may think this is simply because it’s a room requiring many power outlets, which is true. From needing a plug for the air fryer or instant pot to having a power outlet permanently dedicated to the refrigerator, the kitchen needs many plugs.

However, there are other considerations beyond just the number of plugs.

Amperage & Circuits

Kitchen appliances have higher, more constant power demands than other electronics in the home, such as the television or computer. The stove, for example, has large power draws, especially if it is an electric or induction stove, rather than gas, and requires a constant draw of electrical power to keep things hot.

This means that kitchen remodeling contractors will advise these appliances should have their own dedicated circuits and amperage tied into the service or breaker panel of your home. For the best results, homeowners should have dedicated, higher amp circuits for:

• The stove
• The refrigerator
• The microwave
• The dishwater
• The garbage disposal

It’s possible to not have a circuit for each one; however, this runs the risk of blowing the circuit if too many of them are operating simultaneously, requiring a trip back down to the panel to restore power to the home.

Update Old Electrical Outlets

If new owners are moving into an older home, especially homes that are over 40 years in age, without any electrical updates, it is crucial kitchen remodeling contractors bring the electrical wiring up to modern code. This is not only safer in terms of handling kitchen incidents such as water and electric accidents, but it will also prevent the home’s wiring from being overwhelmed by all the power demands a modern kitchen user makes.

If you’re getting a new kitchen for yourself, make sure it can handle your power needs.