Kitchen Rewire and Refit: A Contractor’s Perspective on Powering and Illuminating a Modern Kitchen

Are you planning a kitchen refit with new oven circuits, updated main power, and modern lighting? We recently took on a project like this, transforming an older kitchen into a sleek, functional space with updated electrical systems. Here, we’ll walk you through the process, so you know what to expect and why it’s worth the investment.

Why Rewire and Upgrade Your Kitchen?

When clients ask why a kitchen rewire is necessary, we often explain that modern kitchens demand more power than those of even a decade ago. Between high-power appliances, such as induction Hobs. specialised circuits for ovens, and the demand for better lighting, older wiring can struggle to keep up. In this project, we were called in to rewire the entire kitchen, add new oven circuits, upgrade the main power supply, and install under-cabinet and kickboard lighting.

The clients were clear about their goals: they wanted a functional and safe kitchen that could handle their high-power appliances, while also enjoying a cozy, ambient glow in the evenings. Here’s how we made it happen.

Day 1: Rewiring and Power Upgrades

1. Assessing the Existing Setup

Our first step was to inspect the existing wiring and assess what upgrades were needed. This kitchen, like many older kitchens, had outdated wiring that wasn’t up to current safety standards. The wiring couldn’t support the clients’ high-power induction hob and additional appliances without tripping the circuit breaker. It’s a common problem: older circuits weren’t designed for modern, energy-demanding kitchens.

We started by mapping out the new circuits, including dedicated circuits for the induction hob, refrigerator, and other high-draw appliances. Adding these dedicated circuits is a big part of why rewiring is essential. It allows your kitchen to function without power interruptions, even if you’re running several appliances simultaneously.

2. Installing Dedicated Oven Circuits

Next, we installed a dedicated circuit for the oven. Modern ovens often draw more power, and adding this circuit ensures safety and efficiency. A separate circuit also reduces the risk of overloading, which is crucial to keeping your kitchen’s power consistent and safe.

In this kitchen, we added a 30-amp circuit specifically for the oven. This circuit provides the necessary amperage to safely support the appliance, giving the clients peace of mind about both functionality and safety.

3. Upgrading the Main Power Supply

After setting up the oven circuit, we upgraded the main sockets power supply. Many clients ask if this is necessary, and the answer depends on the demands of the kitchen. In this case, it was essential to ensure the kitchen could handle the load from the oven, refrigerator, microwave, and other high-wattage appliances. We upgraded the main power supply to better distribute electricity throughout the kitchen and the rest of the home, making everything more efficient and reliable.

Day 2: Installing Ambient and Task Lighting

Lighting is often an overlooked part of kitchen refits, but it makes a big difference in both functionality and ambiance. We discussed lighting options with the clients, who were excited to add practical and stylish touches like under-cabinet and kickboard lighting.

1. Kickboard Lighting

Kickboard lighting adds an elegant, modern touch to any kitchen. It’s also practical: when installed along the base of cabinets, kickboard lights provide soft illumination that’s perfect for nighttime use.

In this project, we installed LED strips along the kickboards. LED lights are a fantastic choice because they’re energy-efficient and long-lasting. We used warm white LEDs, which give a cozy glow and help the kitchen feel welcoming in the evenings.

2. New Overhead and Spot Lighting

The last piece of the lighting puzzle was upgrading the overhead lighting. Modern kitchens benefit from layered lighting, which combines task, ambient, and accent lights. For this kitchen, we installed new directional spotlights strategically positioned to reduce shadows in key areas. Spotlights are perfect for illuminating countertops and workspaces, and in this case, they added a clean, modern look to the kitchen.

Challenges We Encountered

Every kitchen rewire comes with its challenges, and this project was no different. One common challenge is dealing with older walls and materials. In this kitchen, we had to work around plasterboard, which required precision to avoid damaging the existing structure. We also had to be mindful of ventilation ducts and plumbing lines, ensuring that the new wiring and lighting installations were properly integrated without interfering with other systems.

Another challenge was managing the power upgrades. Upgrading a home’s main power requires experience and careful planning to avoid overloading the system. It’s a reminder of why working with a professional electrician is essential. We made sure the power upgrade was safe and complied with current electrical regulations.

The Final Result

By the end of Day 2, the kitchen was transformed. The clients had a space that was safer, more efficient, and better lit than ever before. The new oven circuits and upgraded power supply allowed them to use all their appliances without tripping the breaker, and the layered lighting gave the kitchen a beautiful, modern look.

The kickboard and under-cabinet lights added a touch of luxury while also providing practical illumination for nighttime use. The dimmable feature meant they could create the perfect mood for any occasion, from cooking dinner to hosting friends.

Why Invest in a Kitchen Refit?

Clients often ask if a rewire and refit are worth the cost, and the answer is a resounding yes. A kitchen is one of the most used rooms in a home, and updating the wiring and lighting makes it safer, more functional, and more enjoyable.

The peace of mind alone is invaluable. Knowing that your kitchen wiring is up to date, compliant, and safe is something you can’t put a price on. Plus, modern lighting options like under-cabinet and kickboard lights don’t just look good—they make cooking, cleaning, and hosting easier.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect in Your Kitchen Rewire

If you’re thinking about a kitchen refit, know that it can be completed in just a couple of days with a skilled team. By upgrading your circuits, updating the main power supply, and installing layered lighting, you’ll have a kitchen that meets today’s standards for both safety and style. The transformation is well worth the time and investment.

If you have any questions or are considering a project like this, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help guide you through every step of your kitchen transformation, from planning to final installation.