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Do you need an expert solution to get electricity to a kitchen island? You may be feeling overwhelmed by the project, but help is available. Mr. Electric® has the knowledge you need to get the job done right and increase the functionality of your kitchen space. Keep reading for the steps to install a kitchen island outlet correctly.
Kitchen Island Outlet Options
The kitchen island is the center of your kitchen. It’s become the focal point and hub for design creativity in many of today’s kitchens. Adding an electrical outlet to your island enhances the efficiency of your kitchen and helps you to make the most of your counter space. Before you begin the kitchen island outlet installation, you need to determine the right type of outlet to meet your needs. Different options available include:
- USB Outlets
A USB outlet will enable you to add a convenient charging station to your kitchen island; choose from a variety of finishes to match your island and kitchen décor. You can use a pop-up outlet with USB charging to add functionality without taking away from the look of your island. - Recessed Outlets
With a faceplate that is set deeper into the island than a regular outlet, the recessed outlet will prevent the unsightly appearance of protruding connectors and plugs. It creates a streamlined look for your kitchen island. - Pop-up Outlets
This outlet style allows the piece to keep a low profile until you need to use it. When not in use, the outlet lays flush against the island countertop. You only have to push on the outlet to gain easy access to the receptacle.
7 Steps to Get Electricity to a Kitchen Island
Once you’ve decided on the right kitchen island outlet for your space, it’s time to begin the electrical work. Follow these steps to get electricity to a kitchen island:
Step 1: Use a cordless drill and a 3/8-inch drill bit to drill a hole through the kitchen floor where you need the electrical wiring. If you have ceramic tile, place a strip of masking tape over the tile and use a masonry drill instead to protect the surrounding tile.
Step 2: From the crawl space or basement, drill 3/8-inch holes through the floor joists between the hole you made in the floor and the closest electrical junction box, making sure to drill as close to the floor as possible. This enables you to trace the circuit from the box to the electrical panel and replace the existing breaker switch with the necessary GFCI circuit breaker.
Step 3: Take the correct amperage 3-core wire and run it from the junction box to the holes in the floor joists and then up through the hole in the kitchen floor. Hammer insulated cable staples in two-foot intervals to secure the wire to the floor.
Step 4: Drill the holes in the island where the electrical wire will go. Measure and mark the hole for the GFCI outlet directly on the island. Then, drill ¼-inch holes in the corners and cut out a clear opening with a saber saw.
Step 5: Thread the electrical wire up through the island to the cutout, position the island as you want it, and secure the wire’s end to the outside of the outlet opening with masking tape.
Step 6: Follow the kitchen island manufacturer’s instructions to secure the island to the floor.
Step 7: Install the GFCI circuit breaker on the electrical panel and complete the connections between the junction box and the island’s GFCI outlet.
Get Peace of Mind with Your Kitchen Island Outlet Installation – Hire a Professional!
If you need help choosing the right kitchen island outlet to meet your needs or would like professional outlet installation in your kitchen or anywhere else in your home, your local Mr. Electric is ready to make your project a success. Call us to speak to one of our experienced electricians or schedule an appointment online now.
