A kitchen remodel is not just about installing new cabinets and refinishing the floors. If you've never updated the electricals in your kitchen, this would be the perfect time to do so. Electrical upgrades can increase safety, boost electrical efficiency and make the kitchen a more comfortable space for you and your family. Therefore, as you plan your project, include these three electrical upgrades in your budget.
USB Charging Ports for Smartphones and Tablets
Imagine getting home with a dead phone, yet you need to pull up a dinner recipe from YouTube or the web. You don't have a charging port in your kitchen to power your phone. Such an unpleasant situation, right? But what if you had USB ports to charge your device in the kitchen?
Today, it's possible to install data ports as you do regular outlets. The only difference with outlets is that the ports allow you to directly plug in a USB cable and charge your phone or tablet without requiring the traditional power adapter. You can check out recipes, watch a show on your tablet or reply to emails as you cook your dinner.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is an excellent addition to a kitchen that only features the main bulb at the centre of the room. If you have a large kitchen, you'll notice that one lighting fixture isn't enough to illuminate the entire room. Why don't you add accent lights? These can be installed on the ceiling or walls to brighten the room further while adding warm and visual appeal.
Accent lights are strategically placed all over the room to complement the primary lighting source. Others, such as recessed lights can be installed over the island for those romantic dinners with your partner. However, you need an electrician to install them due to the need for extra wiring and individual switches.
GFCI Protection
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are crucial elements of a home's electrical system. These breakers and outlets cut power to a circuit when they sense someone getting an electrical shock. They detect the slightest current leakage, mostly through the human body, and cut off power to prevent electrocution.
Electrical shocks can be frequent in the kitchen, especially if you touch outlets and electrical fixtures with wet hands. By installing GFCI outlets and circuits in your kitchen, you can prevent the risk of electrocution and injury. Even if your home has a central GFCI circuit, it would be a good idea to add GFCI protection in the kitchen due to the high risk of accidental shock.
These three electrical upgrades are essential in improving the functionality of your kitchen and boosting safety. Only work with an electrician for all electrical upgrades and installations to avoid faults which would increase electrical hazards.
To learn more, contact an electrical contractor.
