Space Heaters
Space heaters are great way to warm any space temporarily, but improper use will only cause issues with breakers.
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Space heaters are a convenient way to make any space a little cozier on those chilly days. The problem is the nuisance tripping of the electrical breaker due to an overloaded circuit. Most electrical outlets do not have enough amps to power the heater and the other household items drawing power from the same circuit. Like a lamp, TV, etc…
The maximum amount of power a 15 amp circuit can handle is two 500-watt space heaters or one 1000-watt space heaters. Electrical outlets cannot handle more than 1,500 watts.
Most outlets throughout your home are 15 amps, with the exception of the kitchen outlets in newer homes. This is more than enough for most small appliances and electronics. The average space heater requires more.
A standard space heater is 1,500 watts exceeding the recommended load on a 15amp circuit, causing breakers to trip.
If you do trip a breaker from overloading a circuit, there are steps you can take to resolve the issue before calling an electrician. Unplug the appliances, electronics, or space heater from the outlets along the circuit.
Follow the steps in this video to reset your breakers and GFCI circuit.
Even though they are typically small, and often state 100% efficiency, electric space heaters use a lot of electricity. Most space heaters use on average 1,500 Watts of electricity and cost about 15¢ an hour to operate.
If you are using a space heater regularly, it can be costly to the bottom line. Looking at alternatives could be a better solution.
- Installing a baseboard heater
- Adding room to room venting
- Insulating windows with a barrier for colder months
Less expensive or involved options could include:
- Using a heated blanket
- Turning on a gas fireplace
- wearing extra clothes
There are better ways to keep your home warm, no matter what you choose, stay safe.
Easy as 1, 2, 3
Resetting your breakers is an easy and safe process when done correctly
- Locate the tripped breaker
- firmly press to the off popsition
- Firmly press to the on position
If this does not restore the power follow up this process with the steps in this breaker reset video.
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Common Questions Calgary Homeowners Ask
When is it time to upgrade my electrical panel?
Federal Pacific breakers, or can't support new loads like EV chargers, it's time. Same size upgrades start at $2,800 - $3,200. An underground service upgrade100amps-200amps start $5,000-$10,000
Can my panel handle an EV charger?
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Do I need 100 amp or 200 amp service?
If you have gas heating and appliances, 100A may be enough. Adding EV chargers, AC, or electric heat? You'll likely need 200A or a load management system, like Blackbox. An underground service upgrade can range from $5,000-$10,000.
Do I need whole home surge protection?
Yes, especially in Calgary. Power bars only protect what's plugged in. Whole home protection covers your furnace, AC, and all hardwired appliances.
Why are my lights flickering?
Could be a loose connection, overloaded circuit, or failing panel. Occasional flickers during storms are normal, constant flickering needs attention.
Is aluminum wiring dangerous?
Not if properly remediated. We use approved methods to make aluminum wiring safe. No need to rewire your entire home.
Should I replace my Federal Pacific panel?
Yes, immediately. FPE breakers have a documented history of failing to trip, creating fire risks. Same size replacement costs $2,800-$3,200.
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Battery only detectors no longer meet code for new installations. Hardwired, interconnected detectors are now required for proper protection.
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