Those were the
days ... Doctors made housecalls, there was Penny
Candy, and a Movie
and Popcorn cost under a Buck. Life seemed simpler and maybe it was. In
those days you
only needed one "Plug" in a room and could do almost anything with the right
assortment of extension cords and adapters.
Well, appliances were much
simpler (and much less powerful too). In those days 30 and 60 amp services were
the norm. Nowadays that will barely run an Electric Dryer (30a) or a Self
Cleaning Oven (50a minimum.) No one would ever imagine a Hairdryer would use
over 1800 watts (That's over 15 amps !!) It's not hard to see that one of
these 15 amp Hairdryers on a 15 amp circuit doesn't leave much power for anything
else.
As years go by our
electrical needs change, and to safeguard ourselves and our families we must avoid
overloading existing wiring. Overloaded circuits should be divided and more powerful
appliances should be put on separate circuits. Kitchen wiring should be updated and
additional outlets should be installed to eliminate use of extension cords. Electrical
Services should be inspected with regards to Condition and Adequacy and the appropriate
course of action should be taken. All this can, and should be done by a Licensed
Electrician.
