Essential Kitchen Island Power Strip

A kitchen island can greatly enhance a home's functionality, providing extra counter space for meal prep along with storage solutions. However, most kitchen islands lack sufficient electrical outlets to power small appliances, devices, and task lighting. Enter the ingenious kitchen island power strip - an easy way to add outlets without costly remodeling or electrical work.

Kitchen island power strips offer a versatile, safe solution to expand outlets and access electricity right where you need it. Models feature vary lengths to accommodate different spaces, with options including anywhere from two to eight or more grounded outlets. Higher-end strips add in USB charging ports, switches for lights and disposals, and pop-up receptacles. Recessed, low profile strips mount flush under cabinets for a seamless built-in look. Read on to discover everything essential about equipping your kitchen island with this handy, functional accent.

Kitchen Island Power Strip Defined

What is a Kitchen Island Power Strip

A kitchen island power strip is an electrical device designed to provide additional grounded outlets mounted under a kitchen island counter or along its side/front frame. Built specifically for island installation, these UL-listed power strips safely tap into existing kitchen circuits.

They feature a low profile for a clean look, using special hardware for securing under cabinets or flat against side panels. Unlike bulky powerstrip cubes and light duty extension cords, kitchen island strips meet National Electrical Code (NEC) standards for permanent installations.

Types of Kitchen Island Power Strips

Island strips come in several design varieties to seamlessly fit any decor and configuration:

• Recessed power strips install flush with a discreet look
• Angle strips mount to sides or front for easy access
• Adjustable strips allow repositioning outlets
• Extra long strips provide expanded capacity
• Slim strips maximize a compact footprint
• Straight strips suit simple island shapes

Benefits of Installing a Kitchen Island Power Strip

Outfitting your kitchen island with an integrated power strip delivers versatility. Benefits include:

• Extra outlets for countertop appliances and gadgets
• Charging stations for phones, laptops, tablets
• Power for lighting fixtures or electric knife racks
• Flexible placement of outlets
• Professional hardwired installation
• Safety features like GFCI protection
• Sleek, seamless appearance

Determine Your Kitchen Island Power Needs

Assess Number of Devices Needing Power

Take stock of countertop appliances and gadgets you currently use or want to use on your kitchen island. Consider mixing bowls, stand mixers, blenders, coffeemakers, toasters, microwaves, and more. Don't forget everyday items like phones, laptops, and tablets that will benefit from USB charging access.

Identify Types of Devices and Connections

Note the types of plugs and outlets devices utilize, such as grounded outlets versus USB power delivery. This determines the volume and configuration of receptacles needed from the power strip. Measure device plugs to ensure enough outlet spacing.

Calculate Total Wattage Required

Add up the wattages of all electrical devices that will connect to your kitchen island strip based on manufacturer specifications. This gives the minimum capacity needed to prevent overloading. Choose an appropriate amperage rated strip for expected wattage loads.

Allow Room for Future Devices

When sizing your island power strip, factor in extra capacity for potential future appliances or gizmos. More outlets than you currently need allows flexibility for upgrades like added lighting or an electric wine chiller.

Selecting the Best Kitchen Island Power Strip

Consider Outlet Spacing and Configuration

Choose a strip offering enough outlets for all your devices, factoring in any oversize plug configurations. Spacing between receptacles prevents blocked access to adjacently plugged-in devices. Optional configurations suit specific mixes of appliances.

Choose Appropriate Amperage Rating

Select a kitchen island power strip with the proper amperage for expected loads based on connected device wattages. Common ratings are 15 amps (standard household circuits) or 20 amps for larger loads.

Determine Necessary Cord Length

Measure the space to calculate the minimum workable power strip length for your layout. Factor in extra length for outlet accessibility allowing lamps, appliances or decor impact. Custom length strips are possible.

Select Desired Safety Features

GFCIs provide protection against electric shocks from accidental contact with live wiring. Look for power strips meeting 2008 NEC standards for kitchen installations and UL safety listings for performance assurances.

Compare Reputable Kitchen Island Power Strip Brands

Quality brands like Legrand, Leviton and Cooper specialize in functional, safe kitchen power strips for lasting performance. Review product specifications to verify compatible ratings and dimensions.

Installation Tips and Placement

Prep Tools Needed for Kitchen Island Power Strip Install

Proper installation equipment ensures safe, seamless wiring. Must-haves include: voltage meter, fish tape, cable ripper, mounting screws, electric drill, wire strippers, screwdrivers, tape measure and levels.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Hiring a licensed electrician ensures correct handling of electrical loads and following regional building codes. The install process generally includes:

• Shutting off kitchen electrical circuits
• Removing base trim molding if applicable
• Drilling holes to route wires
• Feeding wires from breaker box to strip location
• Securing strip aligning receptacles
• Attaching cover plate
• Testing outlets

Strategic Kitchen Island Power Strip Placement

Considering island layout,Measure for the most convenient strip positioning avoiding sinks or other fixtures. Placement slightly inset from the edge prevents cord interference yet maintains accessibility.

Allow Flexibility for Repositioning

During final install, verify outlets align with planned device locations on the counter for best utility. Some island strips feature adjustable receptacle placements if shifts meet safety clearances.

Usage and Maintenance

Proper Usage Guidance

Using your installed kitchen island power strip properly promotes safety:

• Never exceed total amperage/wattage ratings
• Do not use extension cords with island strips
• Always fully insert plugs into outlets
• Avoid excessive moisture exposure near receptacles
• Immediately address any signs of overheating/melting
• Only use appliance-rated timer switches or plug adapters
• Ensure cords have slack and do not stretch tightly

Safety Precautions

Exercise caution with island power to prevent hazards:

• Supervise children around outlets
• Install tamper-resistant receptacles
• Never touch outlets with wet hands
• Use GFCI protection to prevent shocks
• Install smoke/CO detectors nearby
• Frequently check cords for damage before plugging in