Protect Your Home: The Hidden Dangers of Overloaded Circuits

*A Safety Message from Mendonca Electric LLC*

As temperatures drop across New England, many homeowners plug in space heaters, holiday lights, and extension cords without giving it a second thought. But did you know that **electrical overloads are one of the leading causes of residential fires** every winter?

At **Mendonca Electric LLC**, we’re committed not only to keeping your home running efficiently—but keeping your family safe. Here’s what you need to know about the dangers of overloaded circuits and how to protect your home from preventable electrical hazards.

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## **1. Space Heaters: Small Device, Big Demand**

Space heaters are convenient, but they draw significantly more power than many people realize. Most units pull **1,000–1,500 watts**, making them one of the highest-demand appliances you can plug into a standard outlet.

### **Common Hazards:**

* Tripping a breaker or blowing a fuse

* Overheating wiring inside the walls

* Melting or scorching outlets

* Causing an electrical fire if paired with other high-draw devices

### **Mendonca Electric Safety Tip:**

**Never** plug a space heater into:

* A power strip

* A surge protector

* An extension cord

* An outlet shared with another heavy appliance (microwave, toaster, vacuum, etc.)

Always plug space heaters **directly into a dedicated wall outlet**, preferably on their own circuit.

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## **2. Surge Protectors Aren’t Built for Heat Devices**

Surge protectors may seem convenient, but they are designed for **electronics**, not heating appliances.

Plugging high-wattage items like space heaters or electric griddles into them can cause:

* Overheating of the strip

* Internal component failure

* Melted insulation

* Complete strip meltdown or fire

### **Mendonca Electric Safety Tip:**

If a device generates heat, it should **never** go into a surge protector—only directly into an outlet.

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## **3. Undersized Extension Cords: A Major Fire Risk**

Many homeowners grab the closest cord they can find without checking the wire gauge. But using an extension cord that is not rated for the amperage of your device can be extremely dangerous.

### **Undersized cords can cause:**

* Excess heat buildup

* Melting insulation

* Cord failure

* Fire ignition anywhere the cord is coiled, kinked, or covered

### **Mendonca Electric Safety Tip:**

If you must use an extension cord:

* Choose a **heavy-duty, grounded cord** (12- or 14-gauge)

* Never run cords under rugs or carpets

* Avoid using extension cords as permanent wiring — if you need more outlets, call us

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## **4. Signs Your Circuit Is Overloaded**

If you notice any of the following, your circuit may be exceeding its safe capacity:

* Flickering or dimming lights

* Warm or discolored outlets

* Frequently tripping breakers

* Buzzing sounds from outlets or panels

* Burning smell when devices are plugged in

If you notice any of these, stop using the device and give us a call.

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## **5. How Mendonca Electric Can Help**

We offer full electrical safety evaluations to make sure your home is protected during high-demand seasons. Our certified electricians can:

* Inspect and upgrade circuits

* Install dedicated lines for space heaters, mini splits, or major appliances

* Add outlets and reduce reliance on extension cords

* Update old wiring and replace unsafe panels

* Ensure your home meets modern safety standards

Whether it’s a simple fix or a full system upgrade, Mendonca Electric LLC is here to keep your home safe, efficient, and ready for winter.

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# **Stay Warm. Stay Safe. Stay Powered.**

**Mendonca Electric LLC — Quality you can trust. Safety you can count on.**