Sometimes, it is really nice to have the option of building a brand-new home (or buying one) and playing a role in the selection of kitchen cupboards, granite countertops, flooring, window coverings, appliances, landscaping, lighting fixtures, and much more. But sometimes being “new” at the process, buyers overlook the smallest details, like the location and number of outlets in their new build.
If you’ve ever had to rely on unsightly extension cords, or if you’ve had to move furniture just so alarm clocks, desktops, flat screens, DVD players, and other devices could be plugged in, you probably understand the importance of “placement” of electrical outlets in a home. It’s something that’s often overlooked during the building phase, but it shouldn’t be because it can affect the whole balance and flow of a furnished room.
Starting Out in the Kitchen
Who doesn’t love all the amazing kitchen appliances we have today? After all, most homes have coffee makers, microwaves, toasters, toaster ovens, blenders, and so on sitting on the countertop at all times and that’s only a short list. If you’re building a new home, this is what we suggest for the kitchen:
- If you have an island, place outlets on all sides so you can plug in mixers, beaters and other small electrics.
- Place outlets under kitchen cabinets. This can help light the kitchen at night by creating soft LED lighting that costs practically nothing if you leave it on all night.
Moving to Other Rooms
Remember, these days everybody needs to charge their devices. For this reason, place plenty of electrical outlets in the four corners of the living room. We also recommend placing outlets in the center of each wall. If you know where you’re going to hang up your flat screen TV, install a plug directly behind the TV and hide the cords.
For other rooms in the new build:
- In the family room, you’ll want plugs in multiple locations because you’ll probably have several charging stations. If you have a fireplace, place outlets on either side of it in case you decorate the room with a clock or lighted picture.
- In the bathroom, install plugs where you plan to use electrical appliances, such as hair dryers, straightening irons, and electrical shavers. You don’t want to stretch cords across the sink because it’s dangerous.
- In the bedroom, figure out where your bed is going to go then place plugs by each side for the nightstands. If you place them two-feet above the baseboard, you can hide the cords. Don’t forget about where you will place your wide dresser and the walk-in closet.
Related: 3 Signs of a Home Electrical Problem
If you need professional advice about an electrical matter in the Greater Atlanta Area, contact Lightening Bug Electric at (404) 471-3847!