4 Electrical Upgrades for the Kitchen

November 1, 2018

It’s almost time to roast turkey and pile up our plates with casserole for Thanksgiving. Remodeling your kitchen can help to create the perfect setting for family gatherings and holiday meals. If you are making some upgrades to the size, design, or technology of your kitchen before the holiday season, don’t forget to factor in some electrical upgrades too.

At Buzz Electrical, we are fully equipped to help you transform your kitchen before turkey season. Here are four electrical upgrades for the kitchen suggested by our team of expert electricians.

1. Additional Circuits

If you are remodeling a kitchen in an older home, one of the most important considerations to make is the way technology has advanced. The wiring and electrical panels in older homes are often unequipped to accommodate the ovens, dishwashers, refrigerators, and other appliances of today. Adding designated circuits to your wiring for the kitchen is one of the best ways to solve this problem.

We recommend separate circuits for your microwave, fridge, dishwasher, and lighting. Designated circuits distribute power from your electrical panel better an ensure you won’t overload. The size of your kitchen, the types of appliances you have, and the amount of power your family uses will determine the number of new circuits you need.

2. Enhanced Outlets

If you are making cosmetic changes like new countertops or a fancy backsplash, consider updating your electrical outlets as well. First and foremost, all kitchen outlets should be Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI). GFCI outlets can detect inconsistencies in the flow of electricity. They will shut off power immediately to protect you from electrocution if this happens. Modern electrical code requires GFCIs in all rooms with a water source. If your kitchen is older than this update to the electrical code, it probably needs updated GFCI outlets.

3. New Light Fixtures

One of the easiest ways to update the style of your kitchen is to replace the light fixtures with a more modern design.  A dangling light fixture like a chandelier makes a huge statement hanging over a new kitchen island. If you have a small kitchen, consider recessed lighting to maximize the feeling of open space in the room.

4. Under Cabinet Lights

Under cabinet lighting has numerous benefits. It can add to the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. Most importantly, it makes cooking safer. Never worry about shadows falling across your utensils and get the maximum use out of your limited counter space. Under cabinet lighting is energy efficient because you can utilize it for crafting the perfect late-night snack without drawing more power to your overhead lighting. It is also a budget-friendly upgrade that can help to maximize the impact of your remodel with limited funds.

Are you interested in electrical upgrades for the kitchen?

If you are remodeling your kitchen before the holiday season begins, don’t forget to include helpful electrical upgrades! Our team of expert electricians is fully trained to assist you with any kitchen upgrades you need.

Family owned and operated Buzz Electrical is Fayetteville’s leading electrical company! If you want to add some electrical upgrades for the kitchen just in time for the holiday season, we are here to help. Give us a call at (479) 267-2899.