Add Efficiency to Your Smart Home With USB Outlets

September 5, 2023

As Debbie and I work through smaller details on our house build projects, efficiency and simplification are part of our decision-making process. One thing we’ve noticed in some of the model homes we’ve toured is a surprising lack of thought around purpose and placement of standard electrical outlets. As a glaring example, outlets at standard height from floor (low) that are obviously on a wall where a TV would be mounted. How hard would it have been to mount that receptacle so it would be hidden behind the TV and leave unsightly cords dangling?

Another one we find frequently, and this may be more of a pet peeve, is outlets above counter tops, in kitchen islands or at nightstand locations without USB charging ports. This may be a little nit picky but for the cost difference of a few dollars on a small number of outlets imagine the efficiency gains.

Whether you’re new to this or have never changed out an electrical outlet or switch don’t worry, it’s not rocket science. There are a few things to consider first though like best locations and obviously turning off the power in your home before making the change as a safety measure if you’re going to do it yourself. But you can always get an electrician to do it as well.

Before starting any of this, let’s look at the difference between USB outlets and regular outlets as they offer different functionalities. Here’s a comparison of USB outlets and average electrical receptacles:

USB Outlets:

• USB Charging Convenience: USB outlets have built-in USB ports that allow you to directly plug in and charge devices like smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets without needing a separate adapter or charger.
• Reduced Clutter: USB outlets eliminate the need for bulky adapters or chargers, reducing clutter around your regular power outlets.
• Fast Charging: Many USB outlets offer higher charging speeds than standard adapters, allowing devices to charge faster.
• Device Compatibility: USB outlets provide a convenient charging solution for devices with USB connectors, which have become a standard for many consumer electronics.
• Optimized for Charging: USB outlets are designed specifically for charging devices, making them ideal for locations where charging is a primary need, such as bedrooms, living rooms and office spaces.
• Limited Power: USB outlets typically provide lower power outputs compared to traditional outlets. They are not designed for high-power devices like kitchen appliances or power tools.

Average Electrical Receptacles:

• Versatility: Regular electrical receptacles are designed to power a wide range of devices and appliances, from small electronics to larger appliances like refrigerators and washing machines.
• Wider Compatibility: Traditional outlets accommodate a variety of plug types, making them suitable for devices with different plug configurations.
• Higher Power: Standard outlets provide higher power outputs, allowing them to handle devices with greater power requirements.
• Multiple Devices: Power strips and adapters can be used with standard outlets to charge multiple devices simultaneously, although this can result in a cluttered appearance.
• Universal Usage: Traditional outlets are essential for various household needs, including powering light fixtures, home appliances and electronic devices.

Considerations:

• Location and Purpose: Consider where the outlet will be installed and how it will be used. USB outlets are great for charging devices, while standard outlets are more versatile for powering various appliances.
• Power Requirements: Think about the types of devices you’ll be using. High power devices like kitchen appliances and power tools require standard outlets.
• Future-Proofing: USB technology evolves over time. Ensure that the USB outlets you choose support current and future charging standards to avoid obsolescence. Different models support the widely used USB A but others include the newer USB C.
• Combination Outlets: Some outlets combine USB ports and standard receptacles, providing a versatile solution that caters to both charging and powering needs.

In summary, USB outlets are specialized for charging devices with USB connectors, providing convenience and reduced clutter. Standard electrical receptacles offer more versatility and higher power outputs for a wider range of devices and appliances. Depending on your needs, you might choose one or the other, or even opt for combination outlets that offer both USB ports and standard receptacles.

For our new home purposes, we’ll have outlet options like the Leviton T5633-W that has both USB A and USB C. This one gives us coverage for our current USB A devices and capacity for visitors’ devices or future USB C devices we own. They’re not exactly the cheapest option ($25) so if budget becomes an issue we could opt for the more economical Amerisense GaN 30W with 2 USB A Ports and 1 USB C ($13) that gives us the same functionality. There are GFCI options where required as well. Either way we go, this should give us plenty of run time with them before we’d need to replace them, if ever.

As far as placement, for our house project, most likely we’ll be placing the USB A and C outlets at the locations below:

• Above counter tops in the kitchen and bathrooms (these may require a GFCI model)
• Kitchen island (another potential GFCI location)
• Nightstand locations in the master bedroom and guest bedrooms
• Floor outlets in the great room and office
• In the office built-ins

You may want to consider these as well and can probably add a few to the list. I’m curious where, if you’re already using USB outlets. Were they installed during a new home build? Or did you retrofit them yourself? Do you see the value in a USB outlet versus a standard receptacle (around $2).

Let Debbie and I know in the comments, DMs and emails as we really enjoy hearing from you. Thanks again to all those following Debbie and I through our home building journey. It’s great to hear your success stories and suggestions as we move through the process. And if you like the content I’m posting each week, don’t forget to ‘Like’ and ‘Follow.’

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