Are your power points outdated? Keen to upgrade to more modern power outlets with surge protection, USB or simply after child safe power outlets with shutters? Jeff’s Electrical, your local electricians in the Eastern Suburbs, has you covered.

We install or repair any power point – and we’ll do it fast! As your local electricians, we’re here to provide a fast, reliable service. After all, we’ve been installing power points for over 35 years, and we intend on installing them for many more.

So don’t delay. Book in that visit and get a better power point (or two, or three…) fast!

When selecting new power points, there are several key safety features you should look for:

1. Surge Protection: Power points with built-in surge protectors help guard your devices against voltage spikes, such as those caused by lightning or electrical faults. This prevents potential damage to your electronics and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
2. Overload Protection: This feature automatically cuts off power when the outlet is overloaded. It prevents overheating and reduces the chance of electrical fires, especially when multiple devices are plugged in.
3. Residual Current Devices (RCD) or Safety Switches: RCD-enabled power points detect electrical leakage, immediately cutting off the current if a fault is detected. This protects users from electric shocks and reduces the risk of fire from faulty appliances.
4. Childproof Shutters: Power points with built-in shutters prevent children from inserting objects into the socket, reducing the risk of electric shock. These shutters typically open only when both plug prongs are inserted simultaneously.
5. Weatherproofing (for outdoor use): If you’re installing power points outdoors, look for ones that are weatherproof and rated for outdoor use, typically marked with an IP rating. This ensures the outlet can withstand exposure to moisture and dust.
6. Smart Outlets with Monitoring: Some modern outlets offer real-time monitoring of energy usage and can alert you to unusual patterns that may indicate a problem. These can also be remotely shut off, adding an extra layer of safety.
7. Arc-Fault Protection: Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) detect arcs in electrical circuits, which can cause fires, and automatically disconnect the circuit to prevent danger. Outlets with this feature are recommended in certain areas such as bedrooms and living spaces.
8. Compliance with Local Standards: Ensure that the power points meet relevant safety certifications and standards (e.g., AS/NZS 3112 in Australia.) This confirms the outlet has undergone testing for safety and durability.

By choosing power points with these safety features, you can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents and protect both your home and its occupants.

Upgrading single power points to double power points can provide several practical benefits:

Increased Convenience: With more devices in homes and offices today, having two outlets instead of one reduces the need for power boards or constantly unplugging and swapping out devices. This is especially helpful in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bedrooms, or living rooms.

Improved Safety: Power boards or extension cords can pose electrical hazards due to overloading or creating tripping risks. By upgrading to double power points, you minimise the need for these external devices, lowering the risk of electrical faults or accidents.

Aesthetic & Space Efficiency: Double outlets reduce the clutter of multiple adapters and cables, helping to maintain a clean and organised look. It also helps you avoid the bulky presence of extension cords, especially in small spaces.

Cost-Efficient Long-Term: While there is an upfront cost to installing double outlets, the long-term savings from reduced wear on power boards, lower fire risk, and overall convenience can offset this. It’s also a value-add if you’re looking to sell or rent your home, as prospective buyers often appreciate modern and practical electrical setups.

Future-Proofing: With the growing number of electrical devices in modern homes, having additional outlets makes it easier to accommodate future technology and appliances without needing further upgrades.

Upgrading to double power points is a simple yet effective improvement that enhances convenience, safety, and the overall functionality of your living or working space.

Modernising your home’s electrical system by upgrading power points not only improves functionality but also enhances safety and energy efficiency. Here are several ways to modernise your home’s electrical system with new power points:

1. Install USB Power Points
Upgrade to power points that include built-in USB ports, allowing you to charge devices without needing adapters. This is convenient for smartphones, tablets, and other small electronics, freeing up regular outlets for other uses.

2. Add Smart Power Points
Smart power points can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app or voice assistants (e.g., Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa). These outlets allow you to schedule devices, monitor energy usage, and turn off outlets when not in use to save energy and improve safety.

3. Surge-Protected Power Points
Power points with integrated surge protection guard your electronics from voltage spikes and surges. This feature is especially useful for sensitive devices like computers, televisions, and home entertainment systems.

4. Install GFCI or RCD Outlets in Wet Areas
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) or Residual Current Device (RCD) outlets should be installed in areas where water is present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor spaces. These outlets automatically cut off power in the event of an electrical fault, reducing the risk of electric shock.

5. Child-Safe Power Points
If you have children, upgrading to power points with childproof shutters is a great safety improvement. These outlets have internal shutters that prevent foreign objects from being inserted, protecting children from accidental shocks.

6. Add Weatherproof Power Points Outdoors
Modernize your outdoor spaces by installing weatherproof outlets with IP-rated covers. These are essential for outdoor appliances like garden lights, fountains, or patio heaters, ensuring the outlets can withstand exposure to the elements.

7. Install Wireless Charging Power Points
Some modern power points come with built-in wireless charging pads, enabling you to charge smartphones and other compatible devices simply by placing them on the outlet.

8. Upgrade to Energy-Monitoring Outlets
Consider outlets with energy-monitoring capabilities, which provide real-time data on power usage. This feature helps you identify energy-hungry devices and reduce electricity costs, contributing to a more energy-efficient home.

9. Modernise with Aesthetic Finishes
Power points are now available in a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes that match modern home designs. Choose sleek, minimalist designs or outlets with finishes like brushed metal or glass to enhance the aesthetic of your space.

10. Add More Power Outlets
In older homes, there often aren’t enough outlets to meet modern demands. Adding more outlets or upgrading to double or quad outlets in high-use areas (like kitchens or home offices) reduces the need for extension cords, improving both safety and convenience.

By incorporating these modern power point upgrades, you can enhance the functionality, safety, and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. These improvements not only meet current technology demands but also future-proof your home for years to come.