POWER & DATA
Lutron Claro duplex electrical receptacle with screwless faceplate
Below are our recommendations for power and data in renovated or new homes, including our typical specifications for products and locations. Every homeowner’s needs are different, so a few typically considered upgrades are noted.
POWER
FACEPLATE STYLE: Lutron Claro with screwless faceplates in glossy white, except where a non-standard colour is desired.
RECEPTACLE TYPE: for most situations the standard two-plug duplex receptacle will do. However, because USB jacks are becoming more common, it makes sense to designate some receptacles as combination duplex/USB, and we typically do so at desks and nightstands among other locations where we think electronic device charging may occur (we don’t do them everywhere, because there is a ±$50 up-charge per receptacle). For these receptacles, we default to the new USB-C standard, but it’s possible to still specify USB-A or combination USB-A/USB-C. In addition to USB receptacles, it sometimes makes sense to specify a four-plug quad receptacle.
KITCHEN: Required spacing of receptacles is fairly tight. There should be no point along the back edge of a counter that is less than twelve inches from one. We try to make logical alignments as much as possible, since these outlets are highly visible. Those near the sink must be GFCI-protected.
BATHROOM & LAUNDRY: At least one GFCI-protected receptacle must be located near the sink, and we typically add at least one more for longer countertops.
LIVING SPACES: When locating receptacles, we primarily respond to the schematic furniture plan, placing them behind nightstands, desks and dressers. We also try to have at least one per room that can be conveniently accessed without moving anything, typically under the light switch. Code requires that every spot along a wall be within six feet of a receptacle, so we end up adding more as required to suit.
EXTERIOR:There should be at least one receptacle at the porch and deck, usually near the door or somewhere specifically where power might be needed. It’s also possible to run lines underground to mount near patios on posts, fences or garage walls. Exterior outlets come with a protective plastic front.
ELECTRIC SURPRISES: Because of code restrictions, receptacles are not allowed inside closed cabinets. Also, those sexy, trimless flush receptacles by Bocci are incredibly expensive.
DATA
CABLE/DATA JACKS: Where desired, co-axial and phone/data (cat-6) cables are bundled and run to faceplates where they are terminated for input jacks. Our default is to have each “bundled cable” point outfitted for one coaxial cable and one phone/data jack, though other combinations are possible. Since so many devices are wireless, it’s very discretionary where these jacks should be located, if anywhere at all. Typically we locate them wherever a desk, TV, or wifi repeater may go.
DATA DISTRIBUTION PANEL: All the co-axial and phone/data cables will be “home run” to one location where they can be connected to the modem or other electronic devices. This is usually located in the basement mechanical room, ideally at a location where service companies like Bell and Rogers can easily access it. But if that’s not possible, then the contractor can usually install a PVC conduit pipe in the wall or ceiling structure to allow phone/data service lines to be fished through.
CONTROLS
LIGHT SWITCH: Leviton Decora rockers (or less expensive Eaton equivalent), with slides for dimmers. Our default strategy is to have dimmers for the main fixtures in large rooms (bedrooms, living, dining, kitchen, etc.). For a modest up-charge you could add them in more places, but accidentally engaging the dimmer presents a slight nuisance, so it’s best only to use them where you really anticipate wanting them (it’s always possible to have them switched out later). Other options include more decorative switches or using Smart controls—let us know if you are interested in any of these since this would require coordination and budgeting.
EXHAUST FAN: Leviton 30-minute countdown timer with options for 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes.
CEILING FAN: Leviton SureSlide Ceiling Fan Wall Switch, Quiet 3-Speed Fan Control, unless incompatible with the ceiling fan.
TIMER SWITCH: Leviton 24-Hour programmable timer with Astronomical clock. It can be set to follow the changing patterns of dusk and dawn across the year. Let us know if you prefer a Smart option instead.
THERMOSTAT: Ecobee Smart Premium Thermostat, but let us know if you prefer a different unit—e.g. a “dumb” programmable one or a smart Nest.
AUDIO/VISUAL & ALARM
TV: TV locations should be identified so that power can be installed behind them. Also, it’s often desirable to run concealed, hard-wire connections through a wall to connect the TV to electronic devices. To facilitate this, a PVC pipe can be installed from behind the TV to where the TV control components will be located, and the homeowner or A/V installer can fish through the wires. The client should be closely involved and familiar with their equipment needs to coordinate this work properly.
SPEAKERS & A/V WIRING: If integrated speakers and audio/visual wiring is desired, it’s advisable for a homeowner to hire a supplier to provide them. This work will have to be coordinated with the contractor, as well as the architect.
ALARM: Let us know if you will be installing an alarm system so that it can be coordinated.
MISC
DOOR BELL & CHIME: We start by assuming that our homeowners would like a doorbell and chime hardwired into the house, though one could reasonably elect to do without. Depending on what’s wanted, it may make sense for either the contractor or homeowner to supply the actual product.
SMOKE & CO ALARMS: A smoke/carbon monoxide alarm must be located on every floor, and there must be a smoke alarm in each bedroom—which we usually locate near the door. In addition to battery back-up, these have to be interconnected so that if one goes off, they all do. Because of Ontario’s very strict alarm requirements—which include strobe and audible announcements—options are limited and exclude otherwise popular ones like Nest. We specify the Ontario code-compliant ones made by Kidde.
EXHAUST FANS: These are required for every bathroom or powder. We specify the Panasonic Whisper Ceiling DC Precisions Spot Ventilation Fan #0511VQ1, which features an adjustable fan speed and is very quiet.
