If you are building a new home or remodeling your current home, there are many electrical options to consider. If you are building a new home, think through each space to determine what your electrical needs will be. If you are in a home that you are going to remodel, consider the electrical options and not just the aesthetic.
Electrical Options to Consider for New Construction or Remodeling
It’s important to plan for both interior and exterior lighting and electrical outlets. We have some ideas for you to consider as you navigate the building or remodeling process.
Interior Electrical Options
Kitchen – What will your electrical needs be in the kitchen? You will need outlets for all your appliances including the refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, and garbage disposal. Your electrician will make sure these outlets are the proper AMP and volt circuits. A professional electrician will also ensure that appliances that share a circuit won’t overload. They may also determine that an appliance will need its own circuit, including your oven range and refrigerator.
You will also need enough outlets for your small appliances like a coffee pot, toaster, and air fryer for example. GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets placed throughout the kitchen under the cabinets are great for ensuring you have enough safe outlets where you need them.
Lighting options in the kitchen include ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. The type of lighting you decide to add to the kitchen can be functional and beautiful. Ambient lighting can include flush-mounted ceiling lights and recessed lighting. An example of task lighting includes track lights. Track lights are great if you need light directed in specific areas including over an island. Under the cabinet lighting is another type of task lighting that allows you to see better as you cook and prep on your countertops. Pendant lights are also considered accent lights. These are generally decorative and have a variety of shapes and sizes.
Bathroom – Lighting options in bathrooms must be rated for damp or wet conditions. Around the mirror, side lights are better because overhead lighting can cast shadows on your face. Wall sconces and vertical strip lights can help provide the right amount of illumination. Bathrooms will also need to include ventilation fans to help remove moisture from baths and showers. Outlets in the bathroom must be GFCI to avoid shocking hazards.
Bedrooms, Living Room, and Dining Room – wall light switches are required for all these spaces and there are codes about where those need to be placed. If possible, ask your electrician to add outlets in more areas so you have options when arranging the room.
Stairways, hallways, closets, and laundry rooms are important to place lighting in as well. The laundry room will require a separate circuit for the washer and dryer and all outlets must be GFCI protected.
Exterior Electrical Options
Don’t forget about the exterior of your home as you plan for electrical. You will want electrical options and lighting in these spaces as well for functionality and safety.
Garage – Most garages need a circuit for just that space. This will include lighting and garage doors. Extra outlets around work bench areas are also a good idea. Any outlets in the garage must also be GFCI protected.
Exterior lighting – You can increase your curb appeal and safety in your home with outdoor lighting. Lights above entryways, on patios, and on backdoors, are essential for safety. Exterior outlets on the home are good for holiday lighting, or yard tools and must be GFCI protected. Landscape lighting can help brighten your home and bring attention to your garden beds or walking paths.
Contact Raceway
Our certified, licensed, and insured electricians are ready to help you create the home of your dreams with the right lighting and electrical options to fit your lifestyle. Contact us for a consultation.
