Every household has a drawer of USB chargers. A USB power point builds the charging ports into the wall outlet, so the socket stays free and there's no adaptor to lose. Whether that's worth doing depends on where you charge and what you're charging.
Ring 0421 772 661 to add or upgrade USB power points. We often do them alongside other power point work to keep the call-out efficient.
A USB power point is a normal double or single wall outlet with USB-A and/or USB-C ports built in. The charging electronics sit behind the plate, so you get your power sockets and charging at the same time. It's hard-wired, so installing one is licensed electrical work.
A plug-in adaptor is the charger that came with your phone or laptop, or a multi-port charging brick. It takes up a socket but is portable, cheap to replace, and easy to upgrade when charging standards move on.
Charging speed depends on the product, not the category. Some USB outlets deliver modest output suited to phones; others support faster USB-C charging. The same is true of adaptors. Check the output rating on the spec sheet for whatever you're considering.
USB outlets are popular here. Both sockets stay free for lamps, and the phone charges without a bulky adaptor behind the bed.
A USB outlet at a spot where phones and tablets land keeps the bench tidy. Keep it away from sinks and cooktops as you would any outlet.
Laptops often need higher output than many wall USB ports give. A dedicated laptop charger is still usually the better choice here.
USB outlets reduce the number of loose chargers. See childproof power points for safety options.
Adaptors. Changing outlets needs the owner's approval and an electrician.
Charging standards change. An adaptor costs little to replace; a wall outlet means another electrician visit.
Cheap unbranded chargers are a known source of overheating problems. Whether you choose a wall outlet or an adaptor, buy from a reputable brand sold through mainstream Australian suppliers, and look for compliance markings. A wall outlet from an established range, such as the USB options in the Clipsal Iconic or other mainstream ranges, is designed for permanent installation.
USB outlets are deeper than standard outlets because of the electronics behind the plate. In older Inner West homes with shallow wall cavities, mounting blocks or skirting-mounted outlets, we check there's room before you buy. We also look at the condition of the existing cable at the outlet, which in older houses can be brittle or not earthed properly.
Replacing an existing outlet with a USB one is usually quick. Adding a brand new outlet means running a cable from an existing circuit or the switchboard; see our power point installation cost guide for what affects the price.
The electronics draw a very small standby amount, similar to an adaptor left plugged in. It's minor for most households.
It depends on the outlet and your phone. Check the outlet's output rating and whether it supports the charging standard your phone uses.
No. Power points are hard-wired, so replacing one is licensed electrical work in NSW.
Some USB-C outlets can charge smaller laptops, others can't supply enough. Your laptop's own charger is the safe bet if you're unsure.
Quality outlets from established ranges, correctly installed, are as safe as any outlet. Avoid cheap unbranded products.
NSW Electrical Contractor Licence 332956C · Fully insured · Since 2016 · Based in Hurlstone Park
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