Everything You Need to Know About Electric Plug Points

 Electric plug points—often called power points, wall sockets, or electrical outlets—are one of those everyday conveniences we take for granted until we need to install a new one, fix a faulty one, or upgrade to a more modern version. While they might seem like simple components of your home’s electrical system, there’s actually a lot to know about them, from different types and configurations to safety considerations and installation requirements.

What Is an Electric Plug Point?

At its most basic, an electric plug point is a device that allows electrical appliances to connect to a power supply. It consists of a socket mounted on a wall, into which a plug is inserted to draw electricity from the building’s electrical system. While they all serve the same fundamental purpose, plug points can vary widely in terms of design, voltage ratings, safety features, and additional functionalities.

Types of Electric Plug Points in Australia

Australia has a standardised type of power point: the Type I plug and socket. This features three flat prongs, with the two outer ones slanted at an angle and the middle prong acting as the earth (ground) pin. Australian sockets operate on 230V at 50Hz, which is important to know if you’re using electrical devices from overseas.

However, within this standard, there are different types of power points designed for various needs:

1. Single Power Points – These are the most basic type, featuring just one socket for plugging in a device.
2. Double Power Points – Common in modern homes, these allow two appliances to be plugged in at once.
3. USB Power Points – A growing trend, these include built-in USB ports, making it easy to charge phones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices without needing an adaptor.
4. Weatherproof Power Points – Designed for outdoor use, these come with protective covers to prevent water and dust from causing damage.
5. Smart Power Points – These advanced outlets can be controlled via an app, voice commands, or home automation systems, allowing users to switch devices on or off remotely.
6. 15A and 20A Power Points – Standard outlets in Australia are rated at 10A (amps), but some heavy-duty appliances require 15A or 20A sockets, which have larger earth pins to prevent incorrect usage.

How to Choose the Right Power Point for Your Needs

While standard power points are sufficient for most applications, you might want to consider specific features depending on where and how they’ll be used:

• For bedrooms and living areas: USB power points make a great addition, as they allow for easy charging of personal devices.
• For kitchens: Since multiple appliances are often used at once, it’s good to install double or quad power points.
• For outdoor areas: Weatherproof power points are a must to protect against moisture and dust.
• For home offices: Smart power points can help manage energy usage and provide remote access to devices.
• For workshops or garages: If you use heavy-duty tools, a higher-rated 15A or 20A power point may be required.

Installation and Safety Considerations

Can You Install an Electric Plug Point Yourself?

In Australia, DIY electrical work is illegal, and installing or modifying a power point must be done by a licensed electrician. This is to ensure safety and compliance with national electrical standards (AS/NZS 3000:2018). Attempting electrical work yourself can result in fire hazards, electrical shocks, or legal penalties.

Safety Features to Look For

Modern power points come with several safety features to reduce risks:

• RCD (Residual Current Device) Protection – Also known as a safety switch, this cuts off power in case of an electrical fault.
• Surge Protection – Helps prevent damage to electronics during power surges.
• Child Safety Shutters – These prevent children from inserting objects into sockets.
• Weatherproofing – Necessary for outdoor installations, protecting against rain, dust, and extreme temperatures.

Upgrading to Modern Power Points

If your home is more than 20 years old, there’s a good chance that your power points might be outdated or worn out. Over time, sockets can become loose, wiring can degrade, and safety standards may change. Some signs that indicate you might need an upgrade include:

• Discoloured or burnt-looking outlets – This could be a sign of overheating.
• Loose sockets – If a plug doesn’t fit securely, it may lead to electrical arcing.
• Frequent tripping of circuit breakers – This could indicate overloaded circuits.
• Lack of modern features – If you still rely on bulky adapters, USB power points might be a good upgrade.

Power Point Placement: Things to Consider

Strategic placement of electric plug points can make a significant difference in convenience and functionality:

• Avoid placing them too low – Standard height is about 300mm from the floor, but for kitchen benchtops, they’re usually positioned at around 1100mm.
• Consider future needs – If renovating, install extra power points in areas where you might need them later.
• Think about furniture placement – Don’t place power points behind large, immovable furniture where they’ll be inaccessible.
• Ensure adequate spacing – In living rooms and bedrooms, it's a good idea to have a power point every 2-3 metres.