Congratulations on deciding to do a new kitchen remodel! Kitchen upgrades can make preparing meals a much more pleasant experience, from aesthetics to useful new appliances. However, it’s important that you consult a residential electrical contractor during your remodel. Working with an electrical contractor will ensure your kitchen’s electrical infrastructure is able to handle all of your remodeling needs.
Here are some tips for your kitchen remodel.
Plan on having plenty of circuits
When you work with your general contractor and builder to create a plan, they’ll usually have an electrical contractor they like to work with. A good electrical contractor will know that the electrical infrastructure is one of the most important parts of the remodel—after all, how good is a kitchen if you can’t use your electric appliances?
To that end, most kitchens require at least nine to 10 circuits—one for each major appliance (dishwasher, refrigerator, stove, microwave) and several for any eating areas or islands. The larger and more luxurious your kitchen, the more circuits you’ll need.
This process will require getting permits from your municipality. Your general and electrical contractors usually handle this process, since they’re more familiar with the process and the red tape involved. However, it’s a good idea to check in with them to ensure that this is on their to-do list—if it’s not, you’ll need to do it yourself. Proceeding without a permit could expose you to some unfortunate consequences, like having to tear out the work and start over. When interviewing contractors, be sure to ask who handles the permit process.
Consider LED lighting
Whether your kitchen remodel is large or small, you should consider replacing your old lighting with LED lights. LED lights are energy efficient, bright and versatile—you can create a number of different lighting effects with them for a lot less money. Plus, they don’t emit as much heat as incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, making them an overall safer choice for your remodel.
When you’re designing your new kitchen, be sure to ask your contractors about rewiring the lights for LED fixtures.
Remember even minor remodels involve electrical repair
Finally, keep in mind that no matter how minor your remodel, most will involve some sort of electrical repair. There’s no better time to replace old wiring or ensure your system is properly grounded than when you rip out your cabinets and appliances. Ensuring your electrical system is up to par will make it more likely your appliances last for years—maybe even decades.
Hiring an electrical contractor will help you rest assured your kitchen wiring is safe and up to code. In turn, you’re less likely to run into problems when there’s an inspection—or later on down the road, after the dust is vacuumed up and you’re enjoying your new kitchen.
When it comes to electricity and kitchen remodels, the only major “don’t” is failing to hire a residential electrical contractor. It’s the safer choice, and it will help ensure your project is completed to code and in a time-efficient manner. For help with your remodel, call Walsh Electric today.
