3 power solutions for your home if there aren't enough outlets

As reliance on electronics and technology increases, so does the need for more power. If there are not enough outlets in your home, here's what you can do.

• Whether it is an increase in the number of people in a home, a move to a new house or simply a greater need for electronics, many find themselves with not enough outlets, wondering how to safely solve the problem.

Here are some potential solutions.

Electrical items that do not get heavy use can sometimes be swapped out for a cordless version.

• Those who love the ease of shaving with an electric razor could switch to a cordless razor; coffee lovers can opt for a French press that doesn't require electricity.

Many cordless alternatives run on batteries, so make sure it won't add an extra cost or hassle to make the switch. An added bonus: getting rid of the cord leaves you free to move beyond the confines of the wall outlet.

Kitchens and bathrooms tend to be high-demand areas for outlets, but sometimes a simple reconfiguration of where things are plugged in can easily solve the outlet shortage. Phone chargers, laptops and hair styling tools can be moved and still be functional.

• Simply moving hair styling tools to the bedroom can solve the problem of not enough outlets in the bathroom while also freeing up bathroom storage space.
• Charging items that are not currently being used in a spare bedroom or other space where outlets don’t get much use is an ideal solution that does not require any major changes.

Power bars can solve the issue of an inadequate number of outlets, but only when used safely.

• Outlets in Canada average 120 volts of electricity, and using 80 per cent or less at once is considered safe.
• Frequently tripped breakers or blown fuses are a sign that those circuits are being overloaded. Consider speaking to an electrician if this keeps happening.

Look for helpful features such as flat cords meant to lie under rugs or rotating outlets that accommodate several large plugs.

*Not only is it dangerous, it may even be illegal in some provinces, such as Québec, to do your own electrical wiring. The solution: consider hiring a master electrician.