Which electrical sockets are best?
In short - it depends!
As a domestic electrician, I am often asked to carry out electrical socket replacement and electrical socket installation in people’s homes. Before I start, I often get asked which electrical sockets are best to use, and it’s a long answer!
It’s not just the prices that you should look for as prices fluctuate all the time. It’s also not true that the most expensive is the most outstanding or that the cheapest offers the best value for money. When looking for the best electrical sockets to suit your needs there are a number of things to consider.
1. Features
One of the most important things to consider is the type of electrical socket that you need. Rather than a straightforward plug socket with two regular socket points, it is worth investing in an electrical socket with at least two regular socket points and two USB sockets. We all have devices that need charging and including USB sockets means that you can free up the regular socket points. Using a direct USB socket will mean faster charging for your device.
It is also worth future-proofing your electrical sockets by including USB-C sockets. USB-C is the most recent USB for delivering power and data. USB-C connectors are smaller, thinner and lighter than regular USB connectors. Also, USB-C connectors and sockets are symmetrical, meaning you can plug them in either way, unlike regular USB connectors which only plug in one way. The transfer of data and power is quicker than with regular USB connectors. These are becoming more popular with manufacturers so it is worth including them now before you need them.
2. Aesthetics
We all want our electrical sockets to look nice. Well, we actually want them to blend into a room - it’s amazing how better-looking sockets can really lift the feel of a room, whilst others can bring things down.
White remains the most popular colour to use for electrical sockets. You can still choose from a range of options, including square-edged or rounded edged and there are decorative sockets with a number of different finishes and styles.
It’s important to consider how much use they will get. Those sockets that are well used will experience wear and tear and so you should choose a harder-wearing finish; for example, those with a chrome finish are more likely to scratch than harder-wearing finishes.
3. Location
One thing that people may not consider is the location of their sockets when considering socket replacement or socket installation. It is crucial that you think about this, so that plug sockets are easily reachable. I suggest having a socket in most of the corners of each room, with additional sockets behind TVs, sound systems and entertainment centres. Electrical sockets should not be too close to doorways otherwise whatever is plugged in may become a trip hazard. You should also consider the location of seating, for lamps or charging points.
Finally, electrical sockets should be installed with a spirit level - there is nothing more annoying than a wonky socket!
If you are considering any electrical socket installation or electrical socket replacement in your home or business, then contact A Bathe Electrics. We have experience in socket installation and replacement, and we would be happy to discuss your needs and provide you with a quote.
