Time to replace your switches and sockets?
Is it time to replace your sockets and switches in your home? Those plastic accessory plates are most likely the original parts from when your home was built. Normally taken for granted, there are several reasons why you should consider either replacing damaged or discoloured plates. Whether it is for the same type, to take the opportunity to upgrade for stylish new ones to complement the decor or to include some new technology.
Here, we look at some reasons why they need to be replaced and some of our favourites to get that new look.
Damaged Sockets
The images above show some examples of socket outlets that we have recently come across. When a socket outlet starts to show signs of not working correctly it is often a sign that it's internal components or plastic parts are damaged. It is at this point a licensed electrician is called in to change over the damaged part before an accident happens.
Yellowing Plastics
Over time your accessories may have turned yellow. We often see beautifully decorated rooms only to be let down with discoloured and ageing accessories. The market is thriving with great looking wall plates that match the current trends in home styling.
'Wobbly' Light Switches
Do you have a light switch at home that needs to be gently rocked from side to side to turn it on or off? This is usually due to one side of the switch rocker (or dolly) having been broken off. If the other side was to break off to, the whole front will fall off exposing live electrical parts!
Dirt and Grime Build Up
Some switches and sockets harbour a build up of grease, soap or other contaminants inside them that cannot be seen. This will allow the electrical current to have a resistive path to your finger and can cause an electric shock!
So, what is out there?
Most homes have Clipsal 2000 series or Classic style accessories that have been popular in the market for decades. Other manufacturers copy these styles (some better than others) but Clipsal, Hager and Trader have some great looking wall accessories that not only look great, but now incorporate new technologies such as Bluetooth control and USB chargers. Sure, these have been out for a while now but we are starting to see product ranges that can accomodate basic switch and socket requirements and also the Smart devices whilst keeping a consistent look.
Iconic
Clipsal
Clipsal Iconic™
This is Clipsal's latest product range and promises exciting products to be based on this platform. Reminiscent of the old Nokia mobile phones with their clip on covers, the Iconic range has a newly developed wall plate that can accept new covers to suit the style of the room they are situated. Currently there a four styles of skins and more are due to be released soon including brushed metal, timber style and granite! Also available are LED backlights for switch mechanisms and pictograph icons lead you to the right switch in a group to save you switching through all of the options to find the light you are looking for!
New technology such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) allows your smartphone or tablet to be able to control the lights, fans or anything else for that matter from the Wiser Room App. USB chargers can be incorporated into socket outlets or there is a 3 gang USB charger - complete with a convenient shelf for your device to sit whist charging. These are ideal for next to a desk or by a kitchen bench where you can read your recipes on your tablet whilst you cook!
Snow Leopard - Trader
Traders premium 'glass look' accessory range is known as Snow Leopard.
Unlike other glass products in the market, the Snow Leopard surround takes the glass look cover right to the wall. There is no ugly black base ruining the overall look and collecting dust. A major feature for the home owner to achieve a perfect look.
The price point of this range makes it more affordable so that the premium look doesn't stop on the kitchen splash back and can be carried to complement other rooms in your home.
Snow Leopard
Trader
Silhouette
Hager
Silhouette by Hager
Slim switches & sockets that blend into the wall have been a demand in the electrical industry for many years.
silhouette meets this demand thanks to a thickness of only 4mm off the wall surface. Available in white, aluminium, steel and matt black. The latter looks amazing and can complement the latest trend of matt black fittings found in bathrooms.
We hope that you found this article interesting. Whether it prompts you to have that faulty switch replaced or if you are looking to revamp the look of your electrical accessories, we hope you will give Elexcel a call and choose us to help you with your electrical work.
Call us on 07 5628 0550!