Here are the reasons why you can want or be required to have pop-up countertop power outlets, from convenience to aesthetics to code requirements and protection researched by kitchen cabinets Pittsburgh, PA.
Next, a short note about the electric 406.5E kitchen countertop code and why you should be familiar with it. Code standards are constantly revised to meet the growing needs of modern kitchens today, as well as to keep families healthy in their homes. If you ever intend to remodel, renovate or sell your house, you should be mindful of the specifications of your local code (especially if you plan on passing inspection).The Kitchen Islands and Peninsulas have a special electrical code of their own.
At least one receptacle outlet for each peninsular countertop is needed. A peninsula is described as a countertop with a short dimension greater than 12 inches and a long dimension greater than or equal to 24 inches. From the linked perpendicular wall, the long dimension is determined.
Often, the same law that applies to walls applies to islands. The code may require the same number of outlets on an island or peninsula every two feet, as it does not have a wall.
Windows, as well as sink and range considerations, are in the way of wall outlets.
In kitchens, the code allows walls to have outlet spacing every 48". If a window is where an outlet needs to be, it might be your only choice to install an outlet that pops out of your countertop.
Keep from hanging dangerous and unsightly cords over the sides of the islands.
In recent years, it has become common to place outlets on the sides of islands with the popularity of large flat islands. Such hanging cords have become a safety hazard for children, from catching them with their arms when running, to the little ones pulling on the cords and toppling on them with small appliances. A pop-up outlet positioned directly in the countertop holds the cords out of the way so that kids do not have the choice of pulling on the cords or tripping or getting tangled in the cable. The elimination of the dangling rope often avoids the same injuries from impacting adults and visitors.
Convenience Charging.
Pop-up outlets are not only equipped to power appliances related to food, but also to charge all of your mobile devices. Laptops, laptops, and smartphones often make their way to the islands of the kitchen. There are various choices to charge several devices at once, including the option to charge from the plug, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, and a wireless QI charging top. Everyone should have an outlet to plug in, from cooking, kids doing homework, to charging your computer.
Free Outlet Backsplashes.
Chances are you have spent countless hours picking out the perfect backsplash whether you are remodeling your kitchen, or constructing a new home. Then having to cut into your lovely brand-new backsplash and clutter it with unattractive sockets can be painful. Pop up outlets are an alternative option that can be hidden on the counter where they are less visible. You can also place them in the bottom of your cabinets, if not in use, they are covered, but pop down when appropriate.
For ALL of your electrical needs, consider pop up outlets.
Before buying or installing any pop up outlets, check your local code.
The code for regulation of countertop outlets varies from state to state, and even down to the county in which they are built. As always, we recommend checking with your local inspector and electrician before remodeling or constructing your new home to see what is expected of your particular kitchen.