From updating your kitchen's overall look to replacing worn materials, a kitchen remodel can be a great project for you and your home. Of course, with the right planning and budgeting, the remodel can also add a great deal of appeal and value to your home. The actual process can be a bit intimidating, so you may not know where to begin when choosing cabinets, floors, appliances, and more. Hiring one contractor may seem smart, but specialists may be necessary in some cases. To reduce the risk of electrical fires and ensure your kitchen is remodeled in a safe, effective manner, you may need an electrician. Here are a few signs you should hire an electrician for your kitchen remodel.  

New Lighting Layout

One of the first reasons you should hire an electrician is if you are changing the layout of your light fixtures during the remodel. This is very common if you are changing the actual layout of the entire kitchen, as well.

For example, if you are adding a kitchen island, you will need lighting above this new surface. Multiple pendant lights can be installed to hang over the island, or one larger, longer fixture can be installed to illuminate the entire space over the island.

If you are moving the location of your stovetop and sink, you will also need to install lights over these new locations. If you are extending or adding an eat-in breakfast nook or dining area, light fixtures must also be installed over the location of your table's center.

Remember that your electrician will not only be installing new fixtures. The contractor may also need to relocate or run new electrical wiring.

New Appliances/Technology

During a major kitchen remodel, you may also want to change the location of your appliances. Or, you may want to create spaces for new appliances. No matter which option you are going for, you will need electrical connections for these appliances.

Most homeowners are surprised by how much power is needed to run their refrigerators, stovetops, ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers. Even if you are not moving locations, make sure the electrician checks to ensure you have adequate power for each appliance.

If you are adding a new appliance, such as an extra oven or a wine cooler, you will also need the electrician to run wiring and install extra outlets. If you are building custom cabinets with garages for small appliances, be sure to let your electrician know so wiring and outlets can be added.

Technology is also becoming an important part of most people's lives, and this technology can be incorporated into your kitchen design. A built-in vacuum for easy cleanup, docking stations in drawers or cabinets for clutter-free charging, and USB outlets instead of traditional plugs are all features your electrician can add during the remodel of your kitchen.

You Have an Older Home

Living in an older home does have its benefits. In most cases, the purchase was probably more affordable compared to buying a new home. Also, older homes do have great bones and lots of character. Unfortunately, older homes, especially if they were built 20 or more years ago, will probably need a complete electrical renovation.

The kitchen remodel is the perfect place to start updating your older home's electrical wiring and outlets.

Running new wiring throughout the kitchen is imperative for reducing the risk of electrical fires.

Adding GFCIs or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters will also be necessary because they were not legally required back when your older home was built. GFCIs detect changes in currents to anything plugged into the outlet, tripping the relay and shutting down the power. This prevents fires, electrical shock, and even a full electrocution.

Remodeling your kitchen can be overwhelming, but electrical contractors can reduce the stress of your project while improving the function, appeal, value, and safety of your kitchen.