How Many Electrical Outlets Does Your Home Really Need?

When setting up or upgrading your home’s electrical system, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: How many outlets do I actually need? The truth is, having too few outlets can lead to frustration, tangled extension cords, and even safety hazards. On the other hand, installing too many outlets in the wrong places can be unnecessary and costly. At Handyman Service St. John’s, we help homeowners in St. John’s, Newfoundland, strike the perfect balance.
Why the Number of Outlets Matters
Electrical outlets are about more than just convenience—they’re essential for safety and functionality. Overloading a single outlet with multiple extension cords or power bars can increase the risk of electrical fires. Having the right number of outlets in the right locations makes your home safer and more practical for everyday living.
What the Electrical Code Says
According to Canadian electrical code standards:
- Outlets should be placed every 12 feet along a wall in living areas.
- Kitchens require outlets above counters, generally every 4 feet, to handle small appliances.
- Bathrooms must have a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet near the sink for safety.
- Hallways and stairways also require proper spacing for outlets and lighting.
These are minimum requirements—but in today’s tech-heavy households, “minimum” is often not enough.
Considering Your Lifestyle
How many outlets you need depends largely on how you live:
- Entertainment setups: TVs, gaming systems, and speakers all need their own dedicated outlets.
- Home offices: Computers, printers, chargers, and lamps can quickly max out a single outlet.
- Bedrooms: Beyond lamps and alarm clocks, most bedrooms now need extra outlets for phone chargers, tablets, or even mini-fridges.
- Outdoor spaces: Adding weatherproof outlets makes it easier to enjoy outdoor lighting, grills, or holiday decorations.
Signs You Don’t Have Enough Outlets
You may need more outlets if:
- You rely heavily on extension cords and power strips.
- Outlets are hidden behind furniture, forcing you to unplug one device to plug in another.
- Your breakers trip often due to overloaded circuits.
The Benefits of Adding More Outlets
Upgrading your home with additional outlets improves convenience, boosts safety, and increases property value. Whether you’re renovating, finishing a basement, or just tired of extension cords running across the floor, installing more outlets is a smart investment.
Call the Experts in St. John’s
If you’re unsure whether your home has enough outlets—or if you’d like to install more—Handyman Service St. John’s can help. We’ll assess your needs, recommend the right locations, and install outlets safely to meet electrical code requirements.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your outlet installation or home electrical upgrade in St. John’s, Newfoundland.







