Home renovations aren’t always about style. Safety and efficiency also play a part, especially in something as essential as the power supply. And with the majority of Australian housing stock 30 years or older, renovations that involve new wiring, power points and switches ensure compliance with current safety regulations, and power all those new appliances and devices we can’t live without.
Home electrical inspections will determine the condition of main parts, including switchboards, wires, powerpoints, switches, protective devices (like circuit breakers and RCDs) and appliances. This rules out visible physical damage, such as frayed wiring, discoloured outlet and switch covers, or loose connections.
Electricians fill reports on findings and can provide recommendations for replacing tired and worn parts with working variants from a dedicated electrical parts supply store. For older homes, they can also suggest upgrades with new wire runs, mandatory protective devices and as many powerpoints as you need.
Types of Power Points in Australian Homes and Businesses
Regardless if they’re called powerpoints, sockets or “General Purpose Outlets” (GPOs), residential power sockets in Australia are of the “i” type, with 2 or 3 pins and current rating ranging between 10 and 20 amps. Common types include:
- Single, Double and Quad GPOs – For homes with lower power requirements (and fewer appliances), single GPOs work just fine. These allow connecting a single appliance or device at any given time. Larger homes though, will benefit from double or quad GPOs, allowing more connections, and reducing clutter with careful placement.
- Switched sockets – most new sockets are also of the switched type, increasing safety from unintentional use, especially in young children, and providing the convenience of having appliances connected at all times without lingering cords.
- Weatherproof sockets—These are commonly used outdoors and are built differently. They have more robust, water—and dust-resistant outer casings, integrated covers for more consistent sealing, and rocker or dial switches for safety. They provide power in gardens, garages, driveways, sheds, and more. These areas can additionally be fitted with socket extensions.
- USB powerpoints—Many new powerpoints come with single or dual USB ports for fast charging, reduced clutter, and reduced need for separate chargers. Their space-saving benefits also free up other power outlets, especially by freeing up connections for larger appliances.
- Specialty sockets – a wider category, including convenient pendant outlets in areas like garages, basements, attics, and workshops. pop-up benchtop outlets for cleaner looks in kitchens, offices, and study rooms, without the dangling cords, and floor-mounted types in open-plan and larger living spaces, again, to limit visible cords and create cleaner, less cluttered living areas.
Key Buying Considerations
Sockets fit for Purpose
Choose sockets according to room size and use. This depends on the number of appliances. Living rooms need between 4 and 8 double GPOs, whereas larger kitchens may require anywhere between 6 and 10 single or double sockets to safely power all appliances. Also consider integrated safety design features, such as flaps and switches, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.
Build and Materials
Housings are often made of durable plastics. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) has low conductivity, is scratch and abrasion resistant, and won’t discolour or fade when subjected to heat or UV rays. Powerpoints in this material can withstand knocks, spills and everyday use. Polycarbonate sockets are even stronger, have better chemical and UV resistance, and are more suited to demanding outdoor applications. Both materials are easy ot shape, and available in a variety of colours.
For more premium looks, choose metals like brass, chrome steel and aluminium. These line the outer socket skins or covers. Brass is very durable, resistant to corrosion, and has a classic look that can also be brushed or polished to suit the interior. Chrome-plated steel goes with a more contemporary and reflective gloss appearance, is equally tough and often cheaper. Aluminium is usually offered in a matte finish, with good durability at affordable prices.
Also, pay attention to the metals used in the internal connections. Pins are often brass (due to high conductivity and water resistance), while contacts are made of copper or brass. Socket mounting plates or bushes are either metal or plastic.
Voltage and Amperage Ratings
Residential sockets operate on a standard 230 voltage, and at 50Hz. Current ratings are 10A in most sockets, but for appliances, equipment and tools with higher power needs, go with 15 or 20A sockets. These ensure a hassle-free power supply by vastly reducing the likelihood of electrical faults like fires or surges. Check with your local electrical parts supply store about correctly sizing your sockets for amperage ratings.
Integrated Protection Devices
New Wiring Rules of 2018 state that protective RCDs are mandatory in all socket outlets and lighting circuits in new residences and in residences that are sold, rented or hired. RCDs significantly lower the risk of injuries and electrocution in earth leaks, by almost instantly cutting the power supply.
Brands and Pricing
Buy sockets from established local and international electrical parts manufacturers. These have distinct and tiered product lines to suit varied tastes and styles, and are priced accordingly.