Electrical outlets in your new home

10/11/2020

In previous articles we explained some electric basics.
Understanding Electrics in Your New Home Build and Electrics for your new home build part 2
Then we discussed light fittings. Choosing lights for your new home. In this article we look at electrical outlets or sockets (plugs).

Don’t you hate it when you can’t find an electrical outlet close to where you need it, or when there’re insufficient outlets. Ensure you have sufficient electrical outlets where they’re going to be needed. Rather err on the generous side, because using extension leads and overloading electrical outlets is hazardous and is often the cause of house fires.

Locations for electrical sockets include:

On either side of beds. Usually at least two, one for a lamp and one for phone charging, or electric blankets.
Where televisions could be located – usually several are required for the various connected devices.
On kitchen worktops. Also in kitchens for dishwashers and fridges.
In laundries for washers and dryers plus extra.
In studies or home offices.
In garages for power tools. Also, provide a socket to charge electric cars.
Externally for use by electrical gardening equipment. Note these should be waterproof.
In lounges and family rooms where standing lamps, heaters, fans and other items may be used.
In bathrooms for electrical razors and hairdryers. Also for heated towel rails
Generally spaced at regular intervals around the house. Think where you might be charging mobile phones, computers and other devices and where you’ll connect a vacuum cleaner.
In addition, electrical outlets are usually required for water heating systems, air-conditioners, alarm systems, electrically operated awnings and blinds, security cameras, intercoms and electrically operated gates and doors.

Generally it’s good practice to have the electrical socket covers and switches matching the light switches. The outlets shouldn’t be located where they could get wet (unless they’re waterproof) and they should be easily accessible. Consider the location of furniture and how this could impede access to the electrical outlets and also where cupboards and counters will be so the outlet isn’t in the way, or inaccessible.

This is an extract from the author's book 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses: Volume 2 Finding your Ideal Property and Designing your Dream Home.

Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?

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Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home. and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home.
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6 Comments

Author

I’m a construction professional, author of several successful construction management books, and a home owner. I’ve made mistakes in construction management, I’ve seen others make mistakes, but importantly I’ve had multiple successful construction projects and I’ve learned from the mistakes. I want to share these lessons and my knowledge with you.
'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volume 1 Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home' are my latest books. packed with tips and information to ensure your home construction project is a success. Get your copy today from Amazon and other online stores.

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housecleaningtoowoomba.com.au link

30/11/2020 11:33:59 am

Very nice information. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

https://www.westaucklandelectrician.kiwi/ link

20/1/2021 10:19:23 am

There are a lot of cool electrical outlets that are safe for your children and even pets. They are those who have covers.
- Hans

Robotic Automation Companies link

9/3/2021 01:50:39 pm

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Professional Electrician link

20/10/2022 08:06:08 pm

If you're planning on doing any work on the electrical outlets in your new home, you'll need to hire a professional electrician. They'll be able to help you determine which outlets need to be replaced and how many you'll need. They can also install new outlets if needed.

Mia Evans link

18/2/2023 06:59:39 pm

It's interesting to know that electrical outlets are placed at regular intervals around the property. I guess that means that their locations and positions are strategically planned by electricians. That is great news because I definitely need new ones installed in my home, since the house I moved into has limited outlets.

Iris Smith link

22/3/2023 09:17:16 am

I appreciate you noting that gardening equipment used externally for electrical purposes should be weatherproof. My spouse wants to begin planting a garden. The electrical outlets outside the home are something he wants to install. I'll advise him to see a residential electrician so that waterproof electrical sockets may be built.