It felt like there were a lot of critical electrical-related decisions to be made!
We couldn’t have achieved the result we did without the expertise of Justin from JWB. We shared quite a few ideas on where sockets would be useful – but this was just the beginning.
We hadn’t deeply considered lighting and light switches in the overall renovation plan, but we appreciated how important it was for really enhancing the living space we were creating.
Justin talked us through best practices so far as switch positioning, depending on the flow of movement through the living space. As there were multiple points of entry and exit into the kitchen and living area, we discussed what lights should be switched from where.
So far as ceiling lights went, Justin recommended we go for flush-mount LEDs. They were relatively inexpensive, dimmable and emitted a tone that was kind on the eye. Justin sketched up a blueprint based on our discussions and that was job done!
We would compliment the ceiling lighting with some softer lamps, which would be plugged into low-mounted wall sockets. Alana was particulary keen on adding several new sockets around the living area. Justin marked directly on the studs, where the new sockets were to be positioned.
The rest of the new wiring was dependent on previous decisions like where the hot water cylinder, and where kitchen appliances were to be positioned.
It’s important to note that we had already measured up and made a rough layout plan for our new kitchen. This was something that we’d worked on before Justin made his second visit and will be covered in a future chapter.
Thus, the positioning for sockets for the dishwasher, fridge and microwave were all known. Additional sockets for other benchtop kitchen appliances were to be added too, based around bench locations.
Justin recommended we upgrade several components on our main switchboard to meet modern standards. This included installing an RCD and upgrading wired fuses to breakers for some circuits.
Finally, Justin suggested that he check the existing wiring that he could access, including light fittings, sockets and switches. We were keen for the piece of mind that would come with a full check over so agreed.