Can You Ever Really Have Enough Outlets?

“Gee, I really think that the electrical extension cord stretching across the room to power my $4400 table lamp from Visual Comfort really sets off my home’s décor,” is something that you’ll never hear anyone say — ever. No matter what you’re plugging in, ample access to outlets is as necessary as oxygen. Yet, in many older un-renovated homes, they’re often in short supply. Even if your current inventory of electrical outlets is sufficient, you may need to replace or want to upgrade them. And with advances in smart home technology, you’ve never had more options.

Are you tired of constantly searching for available outlets in your home or office? It’s time to consider the importance of having sufficient electrical outlets. As a leading residential electrician in NYC, PK Electric NYC understands the importance of providing reliable electrical solutions. Our team specializes in electrical repairs, lighting installation services, and residential electrical services. With our expertise, we can help ensure that you have an adequate number of outlets to meet your electrical needs.

At PK Electric NYC, we offer comprehensive electrical services to enhance the functionality and convenience of your space. From general electric repair work to lighting installation, our skilled technicians are ready to assist you. Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can address your electrical needs. For residential electrical services, explore our dedicated residential electrician page. If you require commercial electrician services, our commercial and retail electrician page provides valuable information.

Having enough outlets is essential for a modern lifestyle. Don’t settle for inadequate electrical setups. Contact PK Electric NYC today for reliable electrical services in NYC.

What’s the Code?

The National Electric Code (NEC) is model that gives guidelines into which most local municipalities model their residential codes. Although code requirements differ from one community to another, most follow the NEC.  Here’s a quick run-down on NEC requirements for outlets.

• General Areas require and outlet no more than every six horizontal feet, unless your wall is two feet or less.

• Kitchens require that outlets are no more than four feet apart horizontally and 20 inches above countertops.

• CFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets that are engineered to protect people from electric shock are required over kitchen counters, dishwashers, laundry rooms, unfinished basements, around pools, spas, and in bathrooms at least three feet from the outside edge of a sink.

What are the Advantages to Adding or Upgrading?

• Increased energy efficiency – Older, or even newer worn-out outlets, don’t deliver power as efficiently as newer models on the market today. And with utility prices on the rise, the cost of upgrading even to simple models may pay for itself quicker than you think.
• Increased capacity – Several new outlets on the market today are capable of increased electrical capacity. This is especially necessary if you’re powering certain appliances or high-powered sound or lighting equipment.

• IoT compatibility – If you’re looking to take full advantage of Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri and don’t want the unsightliness of smart plugs, consider models like the Leviton Decora Smart Outlet for your next upgrade. And if you want to go the extra mile, you can choose a Geeni WiFi Smart Outlet, which comes with USB charging ports.

Will More Outlets Require a Panel Upgrade?

When deciding how many outlets to have on a single standard 20-amp circuit, think about what you are going to plug into each one. To avoid tripping the breaker, the total draw on the circuit shouldn’t exceed 16 amps at any one time. So, if you’re running power-hungry appliances like space heaters, toaster ovens, or hair dryers, you should be mindful not to run them at the same time if they’re on the same circuit.

The NEC doesn’t outline the number of outlets you can place on a standard 20-amp circuit. This doesn’t mean that you won’t overload the circuit breaker if you’re drawing more current than it can handle. For the safety of your home and to avoid the annoyance of resetting breakers, you may need to have your panel upgraded by a licensed electrician.

PK & Altman Electric performs a wide variety of custom wiring jobs from adding standard 110 house current outlets to an underserved room, to custom installations of higher voltage 220 appliances.

Our team of licensed electricians will help you with planning to determine the number of circuits required and complete every step of the installation process that may require drilling in wall studs or floor joists to accommodate wires to power your new outlets or appliances.

As always, all work done by PK & Altman Electric’s team of licensed and insured electricians is guaranteed to meet New York City’s electrical safety code standards.

And since nobody wants to have their walls opened more than once, we’ll even help you develop a pre-electrical plan that includes expanded breakers and wiring for new appliances, electronics, or other gadgets the future has in store for you!