Do you have a tangled web of extension cords, power bars and splitters plugged into your receptacles?   Do you need more electrical outlets?   If so, you’re not alone!

As evidenced by the high number of splitters, extension cords and power bars we see in homes, most people don’t have enough hard wired electrical outlets to meet modern needs.  While splitters and power bars are relatively inexpensive solutions [and may seem effective], they can be very dangerous for 2 reasons:

  1. Overloaded circuits
  2. Using NON CSA approved devices

Both situations are very serious safety hazards and can easily lead to electrical fires.  Homeowners should ALWAYS check this list to see if the device you are using is CSA approved and has an authentic CSA label.    Better yet, check any device BEFORE you purchase it.

The best way to provide safe electricity where you need it is to have additional electrical outlets installed by a qualified, licensed electrician.  This is a common request which can usually be performed in a relatively short amount of time.

If you are renovating your home or are building a house, remember that technology is constantly evolving and it’s wise to plan for future flexibility by installing more outlets than you think you will need.   We recently wired a house with over 30 plug in points in the living room alone.  Rather than a large number of outlets close together, we installed numerous “3-gang” receptacles in key places where the bulk of the power needs would be.

IMG_8411

These homeowners are thrilled not to be fighting over power points and the unsightly [and dangerous] mess of cords is gone!

If YOU would like to have additional electrical outlets installed in your home or office, give Comox Valley Electric Ltd. a call.  We’d love to help you out!