Do you want more electrical outlets in your home? Many people have this need, but in some houses today it is difficult to add receptacles where you really want them. A convenience outlet on light fixture is one of the best ways to increase your receptacles without all the hassles of creating new ones in the walls. Here is important information to know about these components.
How a Convenience Outlet Works
Standard receptacles are usually mounted in walls. Wires are run behind walls and under floors or ceilings. On the other hand, convenience receptacles are mounted on appliances or light fixtures. They are not part of your house’s wiring system. They are usually rated at 15 amps and not meant for large appliances.
Benefits
A convenience outlet gives you a connection to 120 volts of power in places you may not have power sources. For example, you may need to use a hair dryer, lamp, and electric toothbrush charger at the same time, in the bathroom. Instead of using an extension cord, you can add a convenience receptacle to your light fixture, so you are not constantly plugging and unplugging things.
Cost is an important consideration when you want more power outlets. It takes a lot of time and labor to install a standard outlet in the right place. For example, the electrician must find a source to tap into electrical power. He also has to run wires, cut a hole in wallboard, and install an electrical box. This is can be time-consuming and expensive.
Installing a convenience receptacle is simple compared to standard methods. It comes pre-wired, so you only need to cut a mounting hole in the fixture to install. In fact, some fixtures have perforated areas designed for receptacle installation. Before you spend a lot of money on a new wall receptacle, consider the benefits of convenience receptacles.
