Why should you never overload a circuit?

Overloading a circuit poses significant safety risks, primarily because it can lead to overheating of wires. Each circuit has a designated current capacity, typically determined by the circuit breakers or fuses protecting it. When the current exceeds this capacity, the wires can heat up significantly. This excessive heat can degrade the insulation around the wires, and in extreme cases, may ignite flammable materials nearby, resulting in a fire hazard.

Understanding this risk is crucial for anyone working with or managing electrical systems in residential settings. Maintaining the correct load on a circuit is essential not just for safety, but also for the longevity and efficiency of the entire electrical system. Other consequences of an overloaded circuit, such as reduced efficiency or appliance malfunction, stem from the primary issue of overheating, making fire prevention the most critical reason to avoid circuit overloads.