When it comes to electrical outlets, the more the merrier. It is important to note that most new homes will come with bare minimum electrical outlets. Often just one powerpoint per room. A lot of people do not realize this until they move into their new home. It is usually cheaper to have extra outlets installed during the build of your home so if possible try to envision where you will need extra outlets in your home before the build commences.
Here are some places that you may need to add extra electrical outlets to in your new home:
In the kitchen
If you chose your new home based on a display home you may not have noticed the lack of electrical outlets in the kitchen. This is because a display home is simply for show and not for functionality. Most people have several appliances and therefore have a few things plugged in at all times. For example, if you have 3 electrical outlets in the kitchen but you always have your kettle, toaster and microwave plugged in there will be no space for anything else.
The number of electrical outlets in the kitchen will differ from home to home but at bare minimum try to have 2 points designated for your kettle and toaster, 1 or 2 points for where your microwave will go and 2 spare for other various appliances. You should also find hidden powerpoints just for your fridge, oven and dishwasher, but there’s no need to add extras in these spots.
The bedrooms
Most homes will come with 1 double outlet in each bedroom. To make it worse these are usually located where your bed will go so these will be hard to access and will be difficult to use if you have to continuously plug and unplug things. Most bedrooms have more than just a bed. If you want to have a computer and tv in your bedrooms you will need extra outlets. Try having at least two extra points available where your nightstands will go and at least 2 on the wall where you want your TV and computer to go.
Living areas
Your living areas will in most cases have more plugged in than just a TV. A lot of people have electronics such as gaming devices, DVD players, lamps, surround sound systems and many other electronics. For this reason, you should have at least 4 outlets on the wall your TV resides and at least 2 behind where your couch will go. The purpose of having electrical outlets behind your couch can serve many functions. It will allow you to charge your laptop and phone while sitting on the couch and you can also install a lamp near your couch for extra lighting. This will reduce your reliance on extension cables all across the house.
Bathrooms
It is important to be careful when installing extra outlets in the bathroom. As the bathroom is a wet area you will not want any outlets in close proximity to your shower or bath. However, since a lot of people use hair dryers, electric razors, electric toothbrushes and other bathroom electronics you will want to have some outlets. Try installing your outlets in your bathroom cabinets. This will keep your bathroom organised and your counter space clear and will allow you to charge your toothbrush inside your bathroom cabinets. Just be careful of the placement of these and ensure they are not installed close to pipes.
Outdoor Areas
Don’t underestimate the need for outdoor electrical outlets. These will come in handy for things like outdoor heaters, outdoor lighting and bug zappers. Outdoor electrical outlets will look much sleeker than an extension cord coming from inside the house.
Additional areas to consider
Before building your home take into consideration what you own and what your needs will be. If you prefer to keep your modem in the kitchen consider installing an electrical outlet in your pantry or if you use a lot of power tools or have an electric car consider installing a few extra electrical outlets in your garage. Hallways are a good place for an outlet if you use a corded vacuum cleaner. Just remember that it is entirely up to you and your needs. Good luck.
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