Opinions on USB Socket Outlets

[loulew]

Just curious about everyones views and opinions on USB Socket outlets.

I'm being asked more and more lately from customers about them, seems like they are starting to become very popular very quickly but i'm not quite sure how reliable they are just yet. I've fitted a fair few from leading brands that have failed.

Anyone else had any similar experiences?

 

[kingeri]

I had a few fail in the early days, like LAP for example, but even the newer (3.1A) LAP ones seem much improved. Can be a pain for testing though!

 

[loulew]

I've seemed to have better track record with the LAP ones too. I started using MK but had 3 fail in the space of a few months. Thought that could just be a batch fault so gave them the benefit of the doubt. But recently fitted 9 of the new Hager ones in a house and had one fail while i was actually using it.

How do you find the best way to test with them? Test between Live and neutral connected together and earth?

 

[Octopus]

I tell people to use USB chargers that plug in, and when not in use, they can be unplugged or switched off.

 

[loulew]

That is another option, but most of the people i seem to do work for have already made up their mind. If i didn't install them they would probably do it themselves, at least it will be tested and certified if i do it. Plus getting paid for it helps of course.

 

[telectrix]

fitted about 10 of the BG ones. 4 months ago. no problems reported.

 

[Phil Thompson]

Fitted loads of the Satin Chrome click deco ones. Not had any complaints about any of them.

 

[loulew]

Thats good to hear about the click ones. I've got someone who quite likes the look of the Definity range.

 

[Phil Thompson]

I use click mode and click deco ranges of faces.

Can't fault them TBH the FSU with the flex outlet are a pita, but I get the ones without mainly, as they're for kitchens, so don't have any issues that way.

 

[loulew]

They do seem to have quite a lot of variants which is good. Might have to start using a few more of them. See how i get on with them. Looking for a decorative brand that i can stick with and can specify as standard. Could be a contender.

 

[123]

+1 for Click Mode & Click Deco. Great brand all round, and the minigrid modules are superb.

Not a massive fan of their new media modules mind, but they just about do the job

 

[123]

USB sockets - not a big fan. If customer wants them I can supply and fit. But I think it's got a limited lifespan left, it's only a matter of time before Apple ditch the USB charger imo, and then after that other makers will follow suit.

 

[Phil Thompson]

A lot of push on this wireless charging I notice.

 

[Stspark]

I'd always personally rather fit standard sockets and encourage use of an plug in adaptor.
However what client wants client gets! The usb sockets (BG + LAP) I have fitted continue to work well with no issues.

 

[rolyberkin]

I have fitted loads of LAP ones without a single failure, now fit a couple of them as standard in a kitchen.