Dedicated Electrical Circuits Hermanus | AC, Stove, Geyser, Workshop

About Dedicated Circuits in Hermanus

A dedicated circuit is an electrical circuit that serves a single appliance or outlet, with its own cable running directly from the DB board and its own circuit breaker. This is different from shared circuits where multiple sockets and lights share one cable and breaker. Dedicated circuits are required by SANS 10142-1 for any appliance that draws significant current, because sharing a circuit with a high-draw appliance means other devices on that circuit experience voltage drop, and the total load may exceed the cable and breaker rating.

In Hermanus, the most common dedicated circuit installations are for stoves and ovens (typically 32A on 6mm cable, required by SANS 10142-1), air conditioners (20A on 4mm cable per unit), geysers (20A on 4mm cable, required by regulation), pool pumps (16A or 20A depending on motor size), inverter and battery backup systems (sized according to the inverter capacity), EV chargers (32A on 6mm cable for 7kW chargers), workshop equipment including welders, compressors, and lathes, and home offices with dedicated, clean power for sensitive equipment.

Each dedicated circuit requires correctly sized cable matched to the expected load, a circuit breaker rated to protect that cable size, an RCBO for earth leakage protection, and proper cable installation complying with SANS 10142-1 requirements for depth of chase, mechanical protection, and cable supports. We size each circuit for the specific appliance, ensuring neither over-specification (wasting money on unnecessarily heavy cable) nor under-specification (creating a safety hazard).

This is one of several specialist services we offer under power points & wiring in Hermanus. As part of our Hermanus electrical team, we bring over 25 years of hands-on experience to every job.

Dedicated Circuits in Hermanus - Abacas Solution

When to Call for Dedicated Circuits

Call when you are installing a new air conditioner, stove, geyser, EV charger, or pool pump, when you need power for workshop equipment, when an existing shared circuit is overloaded and tripping, or when you want clean, dedicated power for a home office.

Our Dedicated Circuits Process

1

Load Calculation

We determine the electrical load of the appliance or equipment that needs the dedicated circuit - current draw, starting current (for motors), single phase or three phase, and any special requirements.

2

Cable & Protection Sizing

Based on the load and cable route length, we calculate the correct cable size, breaker rating, and RCBO type. Voltage drop over long runs is factored in to ensure the appliance receives adequate voltage.

3

Cable Installation

The correctly sized cable is run from the DB board to the appliance location via the most practical route. Cable is chased into walls, run through conduit, or routed through roof spaces as appropriate.

4

Connection & Testing

The circuit is connected at the DB board with the correct MCB and RCBO. The appliance connection point is installed (isolator switch, socket, or hardwired connection). Full testing and CoC issuance.

Property owners in Hermanus often combine dedicated circuits with plug & socket installation in Hermanus and additional power points. We handle everything, so you only need one call.

Safety & Compliance

Dedicated circuits must be correctly sized for the appliance they serve. Under-sizing creates a fire risk as the cable overheats. Over-sizing means the breaker will not trip in time during a fault, also creating danger. SANS 10142-1 mandates dedicated circuits for stoves, geysers, and other high-draw appliances. Each dedicated circuit must have its own MCB and earth leakage protection (RCBO preferred). An isolator switch must be installed near fixed appliances to allow disconnection for maintenance. Only registered electricians may install dedicated circuits.

Dedicated Circuits Cost in Hermanus

A dedicated circuit costs R1,500-R5,000 depending on cable size, length, and route. A 20A circuit (4mm cable) for an air conditioner with a 5-10m run costs R1,500-R2,500. A 32A circuit (6mm cable) for a stove or EV charger costs R2,000-R4,000. Very long cable runs (over 20m) or routes requiring underground burial increase costs. The breaker and RCBO add R500-R1,200 to the cost. An isolator switch at the appliance adds R200-R400. Multiple dedicated circuits installed simultaneously are more cost-effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my air conditioner need a dedicated circuit in Hermanus?

Yes. Air conditioners draw high starting and running current that will overload a shared circuit. SANS 10142-1 requires each AC unit to have its own dedicated circuit, typically 20A with 4mm cable and an RCBO at the DB board. We install this as part of every AC installation.

Why does my stove need its own circuit?

A stove or oven can draw 30-45A at full capacity (all plates and oven on simultaneously). This far exceeds the rating of a standard 16A or 20A socket circuit. A dedicated 32A or 40A circuit with 6mm or 10mm cable is required by regulation.

Can I plug my welder into a normal socket in Hermanus?

Small 140A welders may work on a 16A socket circuit, but larger welders draw significant current and need a dedicated 20A or 32A circuit. Using a welder on a shared circuit will trip the breaker and may damage the wiring. We can assess your welder and install the correct circuit.

What size circuit do I need for an EV charger?

A standard 7kW home EV charger requires a dedicated 32A circuit with 6mm cable. Faster 11kW or 22kW chargers require three-phase supply and even heavier cabling. We assess your DB board capacity and supply, and install the correct circuit for your charger.