Adding a New Appliance? Check Your Electrical System First | Savacool Electric

The electric power

So you’ve got a new high-end oven, central air system, or maybe even an EV charger ready to go. But before you plug in and power up, there’s one crucial step many homeowners overlook: making sure your home’s electrical system can safely support the new appliance.

At Savacool Electric, we’ve helped Point Pleasant homeowners for over 20 years with safe, code-compliant electrical installations. Here’s what you need to know before adding a new appliance to your home.

More Power, More Responsibility On Your Panel

Modern appliances use more energy than you might think. Whether it’s a tankless water heater, an induction cooktop, or a laundry room upgrade, these systems often require dedicated circuits, higher amperage, or even a panel upgrade to run safely and efficiently.

Installing a powerful appliance without evaluating your electrical system can lead to:

Tripped breakers
Overloaded circuits
Voltage drops
Increased fire risk due to overheating wires or outdated panels

Common Appliances That May Require Electrical Upgrades

Not all appliances are created equal. Some demand more power and dedicated lines. Here are some common additions that typically require an electrical evaluation:

Electric ovens and ranges
Clothes dryers (especially electric models)
HVAC systems and heat pumps
Hot tubs or saunas
Electric vehicle chargers
Tankless water heaters
Backup generators

If your home was built before 1990 and hasn’t had a panel upgrade, chances are your system isn’t equipped to handle multiple high-powered appliances without strain.

Signs Your Electrical System May Not Be Ready

Here are some warning signs that your home may not be up to the task:

Lights flicker when appliances run
Breakers trip regularly
Outlets feel warm to the touch
You use multiple extension cords or power strips
Your electrical panel is outdated or full

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to bring in a licensed electrician for a system assessment before adding new electrical loads.

What a Licensed Electrician Will Check

At Savacool Electric, we perform comprehensive electrical evaluations before any new appliance installation. This includes:

Reviewing your breaker panel capacity
Testing for proper grounding and bonding
Evaluating wire gauge and condition
Checking for code compliance based on the National Electrical Code (NEC)
Recommending upgrades or dedicated circuits where needed

For more information on safe appliance installations, check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Electrical Safety Guide.

Don't Risk It - Check Your Panel First

Adding a new appliance can be exciting, but skipping an electrical evaluation could lead to dangerous or costly consequences. The good news? It’s easy to prevent problems when you hire a seasoned professional.

At Savacool Electric, we’ve been helping Point Pleasant and surrounding Jersey Shore homeowners with safe, efficient electrical work for over 20 years. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, installing an EV charger, or upgrading your electrical panel, we’re here to help you do it the right way.

Contact Savacool Electric today to schedule an evaluation and get peace of mind before your next appliance install.