5 Electrical Things You Should Never Do During a Kitchen Renovation

Why Electrical Mistakes Can Ruin a Kitchen Renovation

Having a kitchen renovation would be so exciting to do nowadays as a home upgrade. This could come with modern lighting, new benchtops and replacing appliances that are energy efficient. However, aside from choosing the tiles, cabinetry and the paint, the electrical safety is the essential element that should not be overlooked.

The foundation of a functional kitchen is the establishment of electrical works. When errors are being made, it can result in costly repairs, damaged appliances or worse it could lead to some serious safety issues. Even if you’re just upgrading your lighting or undergoing a complete renovation of your kitchen, check these five important electrical mistakes to avoid and how Axon Electrical can help you prevent them.

1. Avoid DIY Electrical Work

It is illegal to do electrical work on your own here in Queensland, without the help of a specialized electrician. Although tasks such as installation of a new power point, replacement of a light switch or wiring an oven might be minor, if improperly executed could result in these serious consequences:

• Electrical Fires

• Electric shocks

• Damage of appliances

• Voided Insurance caused by non-compliance

  
  

What to do:

To be compliant with the latest safety standards and local building codes, always reach out to a licensed electrician like Axon Electrical that will ensure to handle the wiring, outlet placement and lighting installation of your kitchen renovation. 

2. Never Overload Circuits

Avoid using the old circuits from your previous kitchen if its capacity cannot handle the new kitchen anymore.  An increased demand of electricity is possible for modern kitchens due to upgrading of appliances like induction cooktops, microwaves, air fryers, dishwashers and coffee machines that could be running at the same time.

If your circuits cannot handle the increased load this may lead to:

• Frequent breaker trips

• Overheated wiring

• Potential fire hazards

  
  

What to do:

Allow your electrician to conduct a load assessment to determine if you’re required to have the following:

• Dedicated circuits for high-draw appliances (e.g., oven, dishwasher, microwave)

• Switchboard upgrades for safe power distribution

• RCDs (safety switches) to prevent electrocution

  
  

Pro Tip: Coordinate your kitchen layout with your electrical plan to prevent circuit overloads and poorly located outlets

3. Don’t Neglect Water and Power Separation Rules

There is a need to prioritize the separation of water and electricity in your kitchen renovation since these would cause danger when combined. Positioning power points or switches too close to water sources like sinks, taps, or dishwashers is a common electrical safety oversight.

Improper placement can lead to:

• Water entering the outlets

• Short circuits

• Electric shocks

  
  

Strict minimum distances must be implemented between electrical fixtures and water sources, as compliance under Queensland’s wiring rules (AS/NZS 3000) to prevent these hazards. 

What to do:

• Outlets should be placed at least 300mm horizontally from any sink or tap.

• In areas prone to moisture, use splash-proof (IP-rated) outlets.

• Use circuits that have RCD protection.

• While still planning, consult your electrician to ensure compliance, to allow easy adjustments before cabinet installation.

  
  

4. Don’t Overlook Lighting Design

Considering the kitchen lighting should not only be based on design but should be about safety and functionality. Avoid having poor lighting that will be inconvenient to cook properly and safely.

Here are the common mistakes during renovation:

• Relying only on overhead lighting without incorporating task lighting.

• Excluding under-cabinet lighting.

• Mismatched installation of fixtures or non-compliance with energy and safety regulations.

  
  

What to do:

Implement a layered lighting design that incorporates:

• Task lighting for concentrated areas like benches and cooking zones.

• Ambient lighting for overall illumination.

• Accent lighting to enhance style and create a specific mood.

  
  

Pro tip: 

Choose LED lights for energy efficiency, longevity, and lower heat emission, which is safer in enclosed spaces.

Consult Axon Electrical to help you design and install lighting solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and compliant with Sunshine Coast home safety requirements.

5. Don’t Forget Future-Proofing

While focusing on the present in renovating your kitchen, it's important to also consider the future for a renovation that will last in the long run.  So don't forget to think ahead!

A minor cost can be incurred if you just add extra outlets or data points during the renovation instead of breaking walls later. Think of those future needs like upgrading to smart appliances, incorporating home assistants, or even setting up an electric vehicle charger. Having the necessary electrical infrastructure now will save you time, money, and even frustration.

What to do:

• Place few extra power points near benchtops and islands

• Inquire for USB or smart outlets

• Ensure capacity of switchboard for future appliances.

• Integrate smart lighting or energy monitoring systems now.

  
  

Future-proofing saves money, reduces clutter, and keeps your kitchen adaptable as technology evolves.

Safe Wiring, Smart Renovation

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and its renovation shouldn't be sacrificed by inadequate electrical planning or shortcuts. Avoid these five common mistakes and work with a certified electrician to help you achieve a kitchen that is not only beautiful and functional but, most importantly, safe.

We are your local electrician here in Axon Electrical that delivers expert, compliant, and energy-efficient electrical solutions throughout the Sunshine Coast.

Planning a kitchen renovation?

 Let Axon Electrical help you design a safe and efficient electrical layout of your kitchen.

 Contact us today for professional advice and an obligation-free quote!