How to choose the best electrical switches and sockets

How to choose the best electrical switches and sockets? Choosing switches and outlets for a remodeling project or new home addition can be daunting.
There are many features to consider, including style, color, cost, and type of use. The last thing you want to do is choose the wrong devices and delay the completion of your project. Here are some helpful tips and important considerations to keep in mind when making your choice:

Make a list

In every room that needs switches and outlets, draw and list the location and shape of each device.
Alternately, number a label on each and add to the list.
Miscounting is a very common mistake, so check your totals carefully and discuss this with your electrician. Make sure you haven’t forgotten a switch in a corner that will look odd if it doesn’t match the other devices in the next room, or you haven’t missed an outlet hidden behind furniture.
You may not see it now, but if you redecorate or move, that device may be visible in the future.

Consider replacing your current devices

The tendency of devices is to use decorator switches, sockets and “decora style” dimmers.
A dimmer is a device that is connected to a lamp and is used to reduce the brightness of the light. By changing the voltage waveform applied to the lamp, the output light intensity can be reduced.
There are several advantages to choosing these. First, all devices fit into the same slot, limiting the variety of screen shapes required.
A light switch, an outlet, or a dimmer can be easily replaced, providing more flexibility if last-minute changes are needed. Decora switches are easier to use for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

Accessibility and usability

A 3-way or 4-way switch is required if you want to turn on the light for more than one location.
Devices that control a single location are called unipolar devices. three-way device allows a light to be controlled from two different switch locations.
A four-way device allows control from three separate switch locations. Be sure to ask your electrician if multi-way devices can be installed in the desired locations. Another popular option is to install dimmers that allow you to adjust the light to your liking. Many dimmer switches have preset buttons for easy maintenance of desired settings.

Painting rooms and finishing work

Look around your room to determine what colors work best together. If you are planning to change the color of the room, consider whether the current fixtures look inappropriate with the new color.

For example, if you have white appliances on a dark wall, replace switches, outlets, and other appliances with matching colors. Perhaps switching to black appliances with matching black panels would be a better complement to your current décor. For a cohesive look, consider gray appliances with stainless steel countertops and appliances. The devices aren’t made with a metal finish (a safety hazard since metal devices conduct electricity), so choose a color that best matches the keyboards you plan to use.
You should be able to find many device options in white, light brown, black, dark brown, and gray.
Most device colors come with both glossy and matte options, so you can choose a cover that best matches the keyboard it’s installed on. Matte devices tend to hide fingerprints better.

amp

Most residential devices are 15 amps, but in some cases a 20-amp device may be suitable. Keep in mind how many devices are plugged into a particular location and how much power each one draws.
15-amp devices can be plugged into a 20-amp socket, but not vice versa. Some homes are wired for low voltage devices that must be specifically requested.

Current requirements

To improve safety and efficiency, local building codes are constantly updated. Any changes you make may need to meet current requirements, so be sure to confirm choices with your electrician and planning department first.

Ordering goods after all decisions

Wait until the project is almost finished before ordering switches, outlets and dimmers. Many electrical appliance companies can ship quickly, so there’s no need to buy much earlier than the required date, unless you need very large quantities. ZEM Group website offers devices in different colors and designs. Last minute changes are often required after seeing the actual location of the electrical junction boxes. Think about usability and comfort and discuss any changes with your electrician.