Introduction
Power points (GPOs) might seem simple, but where and how they’re installed can have a big impact on convenience, safety, and how you use your home. Whether you’re dealing with tangled extension leads, outlets behind heavy furniture, or no weatherproof sockets outside, these power point mistakes are common and easily fixed by professionals such as Handcock Electrical.
Why Placement Matters
When power points are incorrectly placed they lead to:
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Overloaded circuits from extension boards and piggy‑backed plugs.
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Trip hazards from cords stretched across rooms.
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Inaccessibility of outlets behind large furniture or appliances.
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Unsafe outdoor setups without weather‑proofing.
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Non‑compliance with modern usage (USB charging, smart devices).
Handcock’s testimonials show they helped a homeowner reduce “crazy piggy‑back plugs… and is a lot safer!”
Common Mistakes & Solutions
Mistake 1: Too Few Outlets in a Room
Many older homes were wired for minimal usage. Today’s homes demand more: laptop chargers, multiple devices, entertainment systems.
Solution: Add additional GPOs strategically in the room, ideally by consultation with your electrician.
Mistake 2: Outlets Hidden Behind Furniture
Outlets placed behind cabinets, couches or heavy appliances mean cords are hidden, pulled, or under stress.
Solution: Relocate outlets to accessible positions, either beside furniture or higher up for convenience and safety.
Mistake 3: No Outdoor or Weather‑proof Sockets
Outdoor areas are increasingly used for entertainment, tools and appliances. Without the right installation, you risk water‑ingress and non‑compliance.
Solution: Install outdoor-rated weather‑proof power points with lockable covers, designed to handle the elements.
Mistake 4: Over‑reliance on Powerboards/Extension Leads
Using multiple powerboards or overloaded sockets increases risk of overheating, fire or circuit over‑loading.
Solution: Add more wall outlets where needed, or upgrade to quad GPOs or outlets with built‑in USB ports. Handcock’s residential services mention “internal & external works … including power points” as part of their offering.
Mistake 5: Inappropriate Height or Placement in Wet Areas
Bathrooms, kitchens or laundries have stricter standards for outlet height and placement relative to water sources.
Solution: Engage a licensed electrician to ensure height and location comply with AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules.
Mistake 6: Not Planning for Technology Growth
Homes now include USB‑charging devices, smart home hubs, EV chargers. Outlets without these features are already behind.
Solution: Install quad GPOs with USB ports, plan future circuits for high‑load devices.
When to Call in a Licensed Electrician
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You frequently use multiple powerboards.
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You’re planning a renovation or new furniture layout.
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Outside areas lack safe power.
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You have children or vulnerable users and need safe, modern outlets.
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You notice a warm socket, flickering lights, or fuse board trips.
Handcock Electrical’s website confirms they provide free quotes and tailor solutions to individual needs.
How Handcock Electrical Can Help
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In‑home assessment of current outlet placement and future needs.
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Installation of new GPOs, USB outlets, weather‑proof external sockets.
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Compliance check and certificate where required.
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Clear quoting, no call‑out fee and professional friendly service.
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Upgrade advice for smart or outdoor systems.
Real‑Life Scenario: Bedroom and Living Area Upgrade
A homeowner found that nearly all plugs were behind the couch, requiring constant rearrangement. Handcock Electrical assessed the room, added two quad GPOs with USB ports beside bed and lounge, relocated existing sockets to visible positions, and provided a cleaner setup. The result: fewer trip hazards, easier charging, and wires no longer stretched behind furniture.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let hidden or inconvenient power point placement hamper your home’s functionality—or compromise safety. Whether it’s adding a few sockets, upgrading to USB ports, or setting up safe outdoor power, the team at Handcock Electrical is ready to help. A small investment now can make your home more convenient, modern and safe.
