Strategically-Placed Electrical Outlets
The main “strategy” we’re talking about here is having the right outlets in all the right places. That means being able to plug in your toaster, blender, and tech gadgets without an issue. Because let’s face it: there’s nothing more annoying than not having a handy socket to charge your phone when you need it most.
And yes, there are those specific spots you can place those outlets and make your life easier. Here are some of them:
Near bedside tables and shelves
Ever had to charge your devices and leave them hanging by the charger because there was nothing under to secure them? You know how frustrating that can be.
That’s one of the reasons why placing outlets near tables and shelves is a great idea. Also, you’ll need to plug in your bedside lamps and other devices, so keep that in mind.
Bathroom Vanity
Placing sockets below or on the level of bathroom countertops is preferred since blow dryers, curling irons, as well as electric razors need an accessible charging place. You’ll be looking in the mirror, so make it as close to it as possible.
Kitchen Countertop (Small Appliances)
Your toaster, blender, and other smaller appliances will need a reachable power source. And since you may use a lot of them at once, it’s a good idea to double up on kitchen outlets. Another alternative is to install outlet strips if need be.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Depending on where you live, you won’t need both heating and cooling systems. But you sure will need one of them for when it gets boiling hot or freezing out there.
However, there’s one caveat.
Avoid installing air conditioning units during the building process for the following reasons:
- A builder is never the right person to do the installation. Hire a trusted electrician, instead.
- Not only can dust and debris clog the system filters and potentially result in malfunction, but your device is subject to theft. It might sound crazy, but residential building sites in Australia have undergone enough costly vandalism for you to let that happen.
Even if you’re not installing it right away, consult a professional to calculate the exact measurements, and spare you a headache.
Security Systems
Unnecessary you say? Only if you’re part of the lucky ones whose house hasn’t been broken into.
Jokes aside, security systems are effective. According to a Rutgers study, alarm systems are valuable crime-fighting tools. Now imagine what security cameras and automation can do!
Now, the type of security system you’ll install will of course depend on your needs, as well as the size of your home. For instance, smaller homes don’t require security cameras as much as two-story, larger homes do. Instead, it’s a smart (and less costly) decision to have motion sensors installed.
If it makes you feel safer and you never remember to lock your door, there are several smart home security systems available today. Once they’ve been installed, you don’t have to be home to turn lights on and off, lock doors, and watch security cameras.
Whichever tool you decide to use, know you’re 300% less likely to have your house broken into. You’re welcome.
