electrician, electric needs, residential
Written by Larry Cook

Update Your Kitchen with Electrical Services – Part 1

We used to think of the kitchen as simply the place where we do the cooking, but that conception has changed a lot in the past 100 years. The modern kitchen now serves us in many more ways because of the evolution of its design.

At the start of the last century, the kitchen was only a place where the meals were prepared, and so it was laid out to make time-consuming and tiring tasks more bearable. About a half century later, the open integrated design was developed, and modern appliances made the tasks of cooking and cleaning much easier.  In addition, radio and television decreased the drudgery of kitchen work. 

Modern Kitchens

In the 21st century kitchen, people’s busy lives have transformed the once humble kitchen into a living space where people can socialize or be entertained as meals are being prepared. As a result, today’s kitchens are integrated spaces. They not only function as a cooking area, but they also serve as a place for casual dining as well. Opening up into dining areas, cooking spaces now commonly have their own stereos and TVs.

Upgrades Boost Value

If you ask a real estate agent, they will indicate that a kitchen upgrade will raise the resale value of your home and help close a sale. How much the value is raised will depend on the kitchen’s new appliances, cabinet resurfacing, paint, lighting, and type of flooring.  The National Association of REALTORS’ Remodeling Impact Report states that homeowners will recoup approximately 57% (about $20,000 of the $35,000 average cost) of a kitchen upgrade’s cost upon the sale of their home.

The cost of a kitchen upgrade is primarily made up of new appliances, mostly microwaves and dishwashers. Each will need a dedicated electrical circuit. Wiring will also be needed for new stoves, ovens, freezers, wine coolers, etc. An inspection by a licensed electrician can also determine whether or not the additional circuits for new appliances will make it necessary for an electrical service upgrade for your home.

Part 2 will cover updating the lighting of your upgraded kitchen.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.