Powerpoints and switches – where should you put them in your home?
It’s an often-overlooked but important part of a build or renovation: where should the powerpoints go?
With some careful consideration, you can ensure the powerpoints, USB outlets and switches in your home are installed in the most convenient, practical places to make your life easier.
First, consider what appliances you use, and how many. This is especially relevant for media rooms, kitchens and home offices, where you may need to power up multiple appliances simultaneously.
Next, think about where you’ll use them. If anyone studies or works from home, they’ll need to charge laptops and tablets nearby, so USB points could be useful. Consider also if you need a wifi booster, as this will require an additional powerpoint. Do you need 2-way or 3-way switches? These are convenient for areas such as hallways and stairs, so you can easily operate the lights from either end. And do you need to plan for midnight wayfinding, by lining a path or hallway with sensor lights?
Aesthetics are important – Reduce focus; by choosing powerpoint and switch colours that blend into the colour of the wall or cupboard it’s being installed on.
Consider colour
Match colour of powerpoint or switch to wall or cupboard to reduce focus.
Hide cables; nobody enjoys seeing ugly cables trailing down the wall or along the skirting board, so can your electrician help you hide these somehow?
Hide Cables
In some cases we can’t do away with cables, so think about how you can hide these cables. Eg. Placing powerpoints and USB charging points inside a cupboard is a great way to store charging devices.
Do you require targeted lighting, such as lamps or downlights in a cupboard or pantry?
Light up dark cupboards
Do you plan to have cupboards or pantry space where there will be daily activity and good lighting required?
Also, if you plan on putting up Christmas lights, consider where these will go so you can allocate a powerpoint accordingly. If you enjoy outdoor entertaining or have any sheds or outbuildings, you may want to allow for lighting in these areas too, along with outside powerpoints for tools and garden equipment.
Finally, will you be able to see which lights you’re turning on? It seems obvious, but switches located outside of doors or around corners from the lights they operate can become quite confusing and frustrating! It’s a good idea to discuss these ideas with your electrician, because they can make suggestions to help create the perfect lighting and powerpoint plan to suit your family’s lifestyle.
Checklist:
What appliances will you use?
Where will you use them most?
Do you need double or triple switches?
Where will USB points be useful?
Can your electrician help you hide any cables or electrical work?