The number of electric outlets in a home is often overlooked when making the purchase, but once you move in you’ll realize how important it is to have enough. Ideally in a new house the contractor and designer will have considered this factor, but it isn’t always the case. In older houses especially there don’t tend to be enough outlets for the amount of modern electronic devices commonly used. Keep in mind, it’s typically easier to keep items plugged in or at least have their own accessible plug than to constantly unplug one item to make room for another. An experienced electrical contractor can help you determine how many outlets the typical family needs, and you can think about a few considerations concerning electric usage in your home.
Considerations by Use
Because of their uses, different rooms need different amounts of outlets. The kitchen needs enough outlets for the different plug-in cooking devices you use such as toaster ovens, crock pots, indoor grills or waffle irons, and the microwave. The den and living room need outlets for lights to provide options for bright or subdued lighting. They further are typically going to hold a television, possibly a radio, and need plugs to charge numerous electronic devices: laptops, tablets, cell phones, and video game systems. If you entertain often, your guests will likely need to charge their devices also.
Considerations by Purpose
The bathroom nearly always needs more outlets than most people realize. Consider the items you use and what your spouse uses. All told, there may be a hair dryer, curling iron, flattener, lighted makeup mirror, electric shaver and electric toothbrushes, all of which need to either be plugged in or recharged if wireless. Some people like to play music when bathing while others may use additional specialty grooming devices. The bottom line is bathrooms need more outlets than they did as recently as 30 years ago.
Considerations by Convenience
A guest room or basement typically doesn’t need as many outlets as other rooms, but still need enough for convenience. Consider if a guest room is turned into a children’s room, or a basement into either an office a second den for the kids and their friends. You’ll need additional outlets comparative to the amount of time people spend I each of the lesser used rooms. There’s also a consideration that the versatility of additional outlets will add appeal to the house if or when you decide to sell it.