I'm building a new house and the framing is done. The electricians are starting to install outlet and junction boxes, and I want to make sure I review their placement before any wiring goes in. What are some quality-of-life electrical improvements you've made in your homes, or things you wish you'd done? I'm looking for suggestions for both the inside and outside of the house.
3 Answers
Great that you're thinking ahead! I suggest using circuit and earth breakers—these will protect against short circuits and overloads. Make sure you invest in high-quality wiring, especially for large appliances that draw more current. And if you're considering smart switches, it's smart to plan for those now!
One thing I really wish I had done was add more outlets everywhere—it's a game changer! Also, having two-way switches for lights is super handy, as I had to add remote switches later for convenience. For the lighting, consider getting ceiling can lights that let you choose the temperature of the light; I went for one tone and regretted it. And don't skimp on the panel size—200 amps is a solid choice for future expansions, like an EV charger.
Definitely make your exterior outlets two-gang; trust me, you'll need multiple when making the most of your outdoor space. If you love Christmas lights, add switched outlets in the soffits—they’re lifesavers! For your kitchen wiring, use two-gang outlet boxes and keep circuits consistent. Also, even if you're not planning to set up a generator, leave space and install the interlock kit now, so it’s easier later.