Single to a double power point: The change

Sometimes, one power point isn't enough. You have an electric toothbrush that is plugged into one, but you require another one to charge your shaving machine, hair dryer, or straightening irons. Perhaps you'll need one power point for your laptop and another one to power the printer. Double power points are a must.

Unfortunately, homes built before the 1980s did not include double power points. This is why a lot of homeowners are seeking to replace the single power point with larger, more effective double power points.

Change to double power points

In the majority of homes, switching out an individual for the double power point is easy except if you live in an unbuilt brick house or the dual power point is installed to an exterior stone or brick wall. If you own brick walls and you are not capable of having one of the latest double or recessed power points that have a USB port, it could cost you extra for the removal of bricks to accommodate the dual power points.

Although it could appear to be it's a straightforward DIY task to take out the power source to replace it with a second point, the reality is that there are a lot of factors that must be considered about:

• Is there enough room on the wall to put in a double power point?
• The double power point can be vertical or horizontal?
• Do the devices that use the extra point be able to overload the circuit?
• Is the wiring secure?
• Is the switchboard secure?
• It can be described as an external double point and, thus, a particular point.
• If so, will additional switching be required?
• Do you need a USB charging point on the switch?
• Would you like to switch the point on and off using an app on your tablet or phone?
  
• A certified electrician protects you from any issue with the power point that they can replace.
  
• Fires that result from the use of a DIY installation of a double power point might not be insured under your policy.

When it comes to a conclusion, the most secure option is to contact an experienced, local, fully licensed and insured electrician.