A kitchen is a place where every family member visits once in a while. Each one has different reasons for visiting the kitchen, such as for cooking, storing supplies, just cleaning, and picking something to eat. Kids and elderly people also visit the kitchen; hence, it is necessary to keep this particular place of the house safe and clean—requirements are updated regularly to keep up with the ever-changing demands of modern kitchens while also protecting the safety of those who live within.
As kitchen appliances are becoming smarter, the need for charging set up is increasing. The Pop-up USB charger has also become common in most houses. If you plan to remodel, renovate, or sell your home in the future, you should be familiar with the local building codes (especially if you plan on passing inspection). Here are five reasons why you might want to (or need to) install a pop-up USB charger in your house.
Kitchen islands and peninsulas have their own electrical code.
At least one receptacle outlet is required on each peninsula countertop. Peninsula countertops have an extended width of at least 24 inches and a short width of 12 inches. It is calculated from the perpendicular wall that joins the long and short dimensions.
In some cases, the same restrictions that apply to walls may also apply to islands. Due to the lack of a wall on an island or peninsula, the code may require the same number of outlets every two feet.
An outlet should satisfy countertop installation criteria and passes a water intrusion test.
Windows obstruct the wall outlets, the sink, and the range.
To comply with the law, outlets in kitchens must be positioned every 48 inches on the wall. If you require an outlet near a window, installing one that emerges from your countertop may be your only option.
Without a wall outlet, the distance between a sink and the wall behind the counter can’t be more than 18 inches, and the distance between a range and the wall can’t be more than 24 inches. In case of the absence of a wall behind your sink or stove and you have exceeded these restrictions, a countertop outlet may be necessary to comply with the code.
Prevent wires from dangling from islands, which can be dangerous and unsightly.
Retailers are increasingly placing stores on the perimeter of large flat islands, which have become more prevalent in recent years. These cables have become a safety hazard for youngsters since they can become trapped in their arms while running or be pulled by little children, causing small appliances to fall on top of them. A pop-up outlet built into the countertop keeps the cables out of the way, so kids can’t pull on them, trip over them, or get tangled in them. Adults and guests will be safer if the hanging cable is removed.
Side outlets on long islands don’t always allow you to get the small appliance you need exactly where you want it. Islands have become the go-to location for food and drink when it comes to entertainment. Pop-up outlets, rather than untidy wires running across your counters, make it easier to keep your island appearing tidy.
The charging convenience.
A pop-up USB charger can be used to charge your phone, tablet, or other mobile devices in addition to kitchen appliances. Laptops, tablets, and telephones are frequently found on the kitchen island. The socket, USB-A, and USB-C ports, as well as a wireless QI setting top, can all be used to charge numerous devices at the same time. Everyone has access to a power outlet at home for cooking and studying.
Before buying or installing any pop-up outlets, make sure you check your local building codes.
Countertop outlets are subject to a wide range of laws in different states and localities. Before upgrading or building a new kitchen, you should always contact your local building inspector and electrician.