Should your modern home incorporate the latest technology?
From “smart home” capable devices, appliances, doorbell cameras, Bluetooth security systems, and solar options, there is a revolution in innovative tech and products. It would be just as hard to imagine living without a smartphone as it would be living with an old rotary phone. Convenience is the mother of necessity.
The popularity of smartphones, tablets, and Bluetooth devices increases the demand for USB charging stations. I know, you can charge your device with a standard electrical outlet or your laptop/computer. The newest trend is to forego the adapter altogether and install USB outlets in homes. Here are a few benefits to having USB outlets in homes.
- USB wall outlets are efficient. They transmit current that does not lose energy as heat, unlike adapters that “step-down” the voltage from the electrical outlet to a lower charge. The USB wall outlets also shut off after the device is completely charged, which means no wasted electricity.
- USB wall outlets charge faster than adapters, laptops, and computers.
- USB wall outlets are convenient, they eliminate the need for bulky adapters that can tie up a regular outlet.
- Some rechargeable devices require you to wait until their battery is fully charged before using them. USB ports allow you to charge and use the device simultaneously.
The USB wall outlet is always in the same spot. USB wall adapters can be easily misplaced. - A correctly installed USB outlet is safe.
To upgrade to USB outlets in your home, you will need to hire a licensed and insured electrician. This should not be on your DIY list. Most USB wall outlets can seamlessly retrofit into the existing electrical outlet boxes. Bathrooms and Kitchens are off-limits for now. Building codes require that outlets in kitchens and bathrooms have GFCI protection to reduce the risk of electrical shocks in wet locations. Currently, there are no GFCI outlets equipped with USB on the market
Some ideal places in the home for a USB wall outlet include:
- In the home office
- By the master bed
- Front foyer
- Corners of the living room
- Centers of living room walls
- Near an end table
- Near desks
New construction will follow the times, and I suspect USB wall outlets will become an expected inclusion, rather than an option.
For more info on this matter, check out our article explaining electrical receptacles.