If you are looking at some renovations or upgrades, why not do a kitchen electrical upgrade while you’re at it? In fact, many older homes could likely use a good rewiring.
During a remodel or renovation is the perfect time to get your electrician in to upgrade your wiring. Many older systems don’t have the capacity to cope with the demands we put on them with all our new devices and gadgets.
Plus, with technology continuously advancing, you can get your home fitted out with smart features and appliances.
Electrical Upgrade Ideas for Your Kitchen
Whether you are just looking for better ways to use energy efficiently or a complete rewiring, here are a few ideas.
Panel Upgrades
Today’s modern technology requires much more power than the older models. Even though many appliances may claim to be energy efficient, they still use a lot of energy.
This is because they are often large and have a lot more features than those of years ago. An older appliance will still cost more to run, but newer ones are programmable, and therefore, they are more energy-efficient.
Kitchen appliances are no exception. You may need to upgrade your panel to accommodate all the new appliances and their features.
Countertop Outlets
Many of our smaller appliances like toasters, microwaves, coffee makers, and many more have very short cords. This can be inconvenient when you are trying to use a few of them at once.
A few outlets close to the countertop will make life so much easier. Plus, if you are trying to use a few of them with a power bar or a multi-socket adapter, it can get messy and even flip your breaker.
Lighting
Gone are the days of one overhead light for the kitchen that blinded you every morning. Now you can get smart lighting for the entire kitchen. Overhead, under the cabinet, anything you want.
Get them on dimmers and also programmable, so you can turn them on and off, even where you are not there. Set a mood, turn them up when working, have multiple colors, and find them all in LED format to save money.
Hidden and Pop-Up Outlets
Consider having your electrical outlets recessed about half an inch into the wall. This allows you to push the appliance right up against the wall. You don’t see the socket or the cord.
A pop-up electrical outlet is a great idea for smaller kitchens or just those who like less clutter. Get an outlet with several plug-ins that can be opened and closed with the push of the finger.
Charging Station
How does anyone get by without one of these? With all the devices we depend on all day, it’s easy to lose track of where we plugged them all in. Why not get a charging station that will charge everyone’s devices and you will never need to look for them again.
Charging stations are a practical alternative to wall sockets as you can hide them inside your cabinets and pull-out drawers and it will keep them off the table, countertop or floor.
Working Island
If you already have an island, why not get it wired? You can use it for your smaller appliances, have a cooktop installed, and add lights, as well. They are a handy item to have, so make the most of them.
Ask Your Electrician
For more excellent tips on electrical upgrades for your kitchen, ask the professionals at Fusion Electric. They can take a look at your kitchen and let you know all the ways you can make improvements.
