No matter the size of your home, the kitchen is likely the hub of your everyday life. It’s where you gather for meals, experiment with recipes and maybe even host impromptu dance parties. Since it’s the centre of your home, why not make it your favourite room too?

Add a TV
Consider installing a TV so you can catch up on the news at breakfast or follow along with a cooking show for testing out a new meal.

A smaller TV is ideal as you don’t want to overcrowd the space. Before installation, ensure the unit is away from your oven and other electrical equipment. If you find a perfect spot but there isn’t an outlet close by, don’t worry. You can hire a licensed electrical contracting (LEC) business to install an extra outlet for you, hide wires from view and make sure your space is safe from electrical harm.

But be careful when hiring someone to work in your home. Sometimes, unlicensed contractors offer their services for a lower cost. Always remember that in Ontario, only a LEC business can be hired to do electrical work in your home. So before getting started, verify their ECRA/ESA licence number to ensure they are authorized to do electrical work.

Turn up the volume
Larger kitchens allow for a variety of social gatherings, like having extended family help make a holiday meal together, or entertaining guests for a celebration. Setting up a sound system can add extra ambiance for relaxing music, podcasts or even party tunes. Choose a spot away from the sink to put speakers and any other equipment, so moisture doesn’t affect any wires or cause a fire.

Major appliances for a facelift
If you’re planning to fully renovate, dedicate some time for choosing the best appliances to fit your style and needs. Before putting everything in place, make sure you have the right electrical outlets. Some appliances like microwave ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers require dedicated circuits to protect you from potential accidents caused by overheating or overloading.

Use a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet for anything less than 1.5 metres from the sink. Hire a LEC business to assist with any electrical installation and be sure that they file a notification of work with the Electrical Safety Authority when the work begins.

With the right resources and expert help, small or big changes can transform your kitchen and make it your favourite room. Find more electrical safety tips at esasafe.com/safety.

credit – newscanada. com