Overview of existing types of sockets and switches

What is a proper electrician?

The technical and safety issues of an electrical system in a house or an electrician in an apartment are usually cited by professional electricians as the most important criterion for evaluating this system. This is certainly true, but the comfort, practicality and versatility of arranging the electrical system are also of great importance.

To meet both the requirements of functionality and safety, the designer must carefully design the entire system based on the requirements of codes and regulations, while at the same time taking into account the wishes of the customer. This is a very important step in the planning mechanisms for a major renovation or construction of an apartment or house. Before designing, you should initially know how this or that space in your house will be equipped (rooms, bathroom, kitchen, and so on).

Outlet - USB charging

In addition, in the block near the bedside table, there is a tendency to mount a USB socket. So, Schneider in the Unica New series has not just such an outlet, but a full-fledged block USB charger!

The voltage in it is standard for USB - 5V, and the current reaches 2100mA. This is quite enough for the simultaneous recharging of two fashionable gadgets at once. By the way, a standard usb port in a computer only outputs 500mA.

Each of us charges the phone near his bed and without it there is nowhere to go. I think that such devices will soon become familiar devices in every apartment.

True, such a solution may scare away some, because it implies a charger that is constantly connected to the network, which cannot be turned off.

And there is a widespread belief that any charge must be pulled out of the outlet. Is this really the case, read the article below.

Various types of switches

Next, we will look at the different types of switches. In addition to the usual switches familiar to all of us, there are other types of switches that are not so popular, but at the same time have their own characteristics and advantages. Let's look at some of them.

Innovative touch switches

These switches are activated by lightly touching a special sensitive touch panel located on the outside of the device. Thus, the panel works in a button or key system. Its design includes an electronic circuit operating on the semiconductors of the sensing element and its own switch. By touching the panel. Tactile contact occurs and the sensor element sends a signal to the electronic circuit. Touch switches can also be equipped with additional sensors and respond to their signals or work remotely.

Touch switches

Remote switches

These switches can control the luminaire from a distance. With the help of a special remote control, a command is transmitted to the lighting device via a radio channel. The switch in this case is a receiver equipped with switching contacts that cut into the supply wire of the lamp.

Remote switches

A remote control is attached to this type of switch. Often it looks like a regular keychain. The range of its action largely depends on the material from which the remote control is made, but usually this distance is 20-25 m. The remote control runs on power, which depends on batteries. This scheme involves microprocessor controllers. They allow for additional functions: setting the timer, adjusting the light intensity, etc.

Switches with built-in sensors

These special sensors have detectors that can determine the level of movement of the environment. More precisely, the absence or presence of a fairly large object in the affected area, as well as the intensity of illumination.

Switches with built-in sensors

The signals from the sensor are sent to the controller, which analyzes them. When the predetermined parameters are fixed, a signal is sent to the executive body. After that, the closing-opening of the contacts of the circuit occurs. So the switch works only after it detects the movement of an object in the reach zone. The device saves a lot of energy and is quite easy to operate.

Pass-through or toggle switches

This is a kind of keyboard models. Unlike pass-through switches, they do not open / close contacts, but simply switch them. That is, one of the lamps connected to this switch lights up or goes out. Toggle switches are needed in order to use them to control the connection of light in several rooms at the same time. They can be removed from each other, the main thing is that such devices can connect not only one, but also several lighting fixtures.

Proper installation and placement of outlets

Kitchen

As a rule, a significant part of all household electrical appliances of the apartment, which will be used daily, is located in the kitchen. Therefore, the design of this room must be done in such a way that all important electrical appliances can be conveniently and practically placed. For example, you need to understand where the refrigerator, electric stove, extractor hood, etc. will be placed.

The circuit must be drawn up in such a way that there are no additional extension cords and carriers. Also for the kitchen is very acute question: at what height make an outlet?

As a rule, in the kitchen it is recommended to install double sockets 10-15 cm higher as required by the standards, this is due to the fact that will be in the kitchen a worktop with a built-in stove and cabinets should be located at a level of 1 m from the floor, and 10-15 cm are a small margin.

Living room

In this room, it is desirable to install double sockets. Here everything is set strictly according to standards and norms. As a rule, one outlet is installed near the door, and two outlets on the wall on each side.

Bedroom

Here sockets are installed in accordance with standards and regulations. The location of the sockets in this room can be chosen individually at your discretion, while it is necessary to take into account which electrical appliances will be located in the room and in what place.

It is necessary to think over everything correctly, otherwise you will have to connect additional extension cords later, which you will agree is not very pleasant.

Bathroom

To install sockets in this room, it is necessary to take into account the specifics of the room. The bathroom does not have a significant area and its dimensions are not so large, so one or two sockets are enough here.

However, it is very important to take into account the regulatory rules, according to which the socket must be at least 60 cm away from the bathroom, this is all due to the fact that this room is the wettest.

Hallway

As a rule, for such a room it is enough to have two sockets. There are not many appliances in the hallway that can be used in the room. Basically, here the socket can be used when connecting a vacuum cleaner or when using a shoe dryer.

Of course, when planning it is impossible to foresee everything thoroughly, therefore it is recommended to preliminarily draw up 1-2 schemes based on which the final one is made, on the basis of which the sockets are wired. It is also recommended to install electrical points with a small margin, this is done so that you do not have to use extension cords.

Therefore, with a competent approach, you can independently carry out the wiring of sockets yourself, not to mention how to replace the old socket in the apartment, which is also not difficult.

It is very important to take each step carefully and take your time, as the price of a mistake can be very high.

If you have any difficulties in the process of wiring the outlet yourself, or you cannot understand something, you can look at our website for colorful photos of outlets in the apartment. Perhaps this will help you solve your problem.

Manufacturers focused on the production of premium quality products

Such manufacturers are: the French brand Legrand, the Swiss brand ABB, as well as the German manufacturers Scneider-electric and Gira. This elite product does not require much comparison and is focused on a quick decision on how to choose devices for design and additional functions. These include sockets with timers that turn off while no one is at home, models with mechanisms that push plugs out, as well as other little things, like protective shutters.

Sockets and switches Legrand

Sockets and switches legrand

This is one of the leading brands on the Russian market. The main office of the company is located in France.Its products are represented in 180 countries around the world, products are associated with high quality and attractive design.

Main advantages:

• a huge selection of models;
• detailed control of products in terms of fire safety;
• the highest possible build quality;
• components that have passed multiple checks;
• various color finishes;
• democratic prices.

Sockets and switches BTicino

Sockets and switches BTicino

This brand is a subsidiary of the French company Legrand. It also has a high quality factor. Localized for the Italian market, where it occupies a leading position. It annually releases new products and is characterized by high innovativeness of products. A feature of the company is bold design solutions, as well as the release of automatic sockets and switches even before the merger with Legrand. Suitable for the most demanding customers and lovers of "smart homes". Especially pleasant is the fact that you can replace old products with new ones yourself, without special skills.

Main advantages:

• durability of materials;
• annual renewal of collections;
• High level of technology;
• Nice design for every taste.

Sockets and switches Scneider-electric

Sockets and switches Scneider-electric

Switches and sockets of this kind are to the liking of professional electricians, because of the manufacturing criteria, the reliable design of the devices and their configuration, as it includes high-quality fasteners. The company's products have an optimal design for home or office.

Main advantages:

• replaceable frames;
• a rich catalog of goods;
• prefabricated structure from modules;
• the best quality of parts;

Sockets and switches ABB

Sockets and switches ABB

A Swiss company with production facilities in more than 100 countries. These switches are one of the largest Russian clients - TOP state corporations in the oil industry. This brand mainly reflects Swiss punctuality and pedantry, as well as in all its series, the opinion of ordinary consumers and lovers of pronounced design is taken into account.

Main advantages:

• shock-resistant, not exposed to ultraviolet materials;
• sophistication and accuracy in manufacturing;
• prefabricated structure from modules;
• high-speed installation;
• colorful combination of colors;
• production of some details from natural bronze, steel;

Of the minuses, only a very high cost is noted.

Gira sockets and switches

Gira sockets and switches

The company produces modern high-quality models. The corporation has repeatedly received world awards for design concepts. Approaches to consumer demands are fundamentally different in different series

For example, if in one the main attention is paid to price democracy, reliability and minimalism in design, then in the other - this is replaced by sophistication, progressive developments and the ability to fulfill the requests of even the most demanding customers.

Main advantages:

• number of models;
• impeccable assembly accuracy;
• graceful design;
• proven German quality;
• modular assembly elements;
• availability of natural materials and up-to-date technical solutions.

Tips on how to spot a fake

How to choose the right switches and sockets, without falling for a fake, the following instructions:

You need to check the product for smell.Fakes are often made from obscure plastic mixtures that smell very bad.
The approximate weight is determined. Since the basis of the socket is conductive elements, a simple dependence arises - the heavier, the better.
Check out the build quality of the case itself. A large number of gaps, a flimsy frame indicate the likelihood of a fake. Original cases and covers are often fastened with latches

If the case is just soldered, then it is a fake.
You need to pay attention to contacts. In good devices, the contacts have additional springs that will not allow them to unbend, which leads to poor pressing of the contacts of the plug and socket.
Check for ground contact

Based on the rules of the PUE, mandatory grounding of electrical wiring is prescribed, however, in old housing stock, the wiring has not yet been corrected for this standard and manufacturers of the “middle” price range continue to produce some models sockets without grounding contacts. This acceptable reduction in the cost of production does not mean poor quality. It is very good if the house has a dedicated ground wire, in which case the appropriate sockets will do.

The best manufacturers of premium sockets and switches

The high price of switches and sockets is justified by the excellent quality of such products. It has an extended service life, a wide range of classic and original products, a variety of designs and high performance.

Top manufacturers produce both standard switches and sockets, as well as models with improved characteristics.

ABB (Asea Brown Boveri)

5.0

★★★★★
editorial score

97%
buyers recommend this product

Asea Brown Boveri was born from the merger between the Swedish manufacturer ASEA and the Swiss Air Force.

The combination of the precision of the Swiss and the pedantry of the Swedes allowed them to produce high-quality products of various configurations.

Sockets and switches ABB combines stylish design and high quality raw materials used for production.

The main material of switches and sockets is traditionally plastic in white, beige, silver, black and other colors.

The brand also produces various decorative overlays for metal and glass. The materials used are impact-resistant and UV-resistant.

Advantages:

• Variety of designs;
• Decorative overlays;
• Presence of blind switches;
• Devices for vertical and horizontal mounting;
• Quality manufacturing materials.

Flaws:

There are no dimmers.

ABB brand products are in demand both among ordinary users and in large enterprises. Stylish sockets and original switches emphasize the status of home owners and are a good addition to a modern interior.

Makel

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

90%
buyers recommend this product

The Turkish company Makel uses German technology in the manufacture of its products, ensuring the durability and reliability of sockets and switches.

The product line is represented by products made in a classic design. Products are made in light shades, what makes them versatile and quite suitable for classic and modern interiors. The design is dominated by soft, rounded shapes.

A small selection of designs compensates for the high quality of goods.Impact-resistant plastic does not attract dust and is easy to clean - dirt does not eat into the structure of the material.

The body is made of fire-resistant plastic, and the contact group is characterized by good response and durability.

Advantages:

• Universal design;
• The presence of interchangeable decorative frames;
• The presence of dimmers in the range;
• Multi-module sockets;
• The presence of sockets for TV, PC and phones.

Flaws:

• A small assortment of each type of product;
• No color patterns.

Makel has long been known in the Russian market and has a reputation as a reliable manufacturer.

DKC

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

90%
buyers recommend this product

The Russian company DKC is known for its products not only in Russia, but also far beyond its borders. There are more than 1000 positions in the product catalog of this brand, among which switches and sockets take pride of place. And although they are not the main field of activity of the company, they are still in demand among buyers.

The brand produces plug, telephone and computer sockets, switches and additional accessories: covers, plugs, decorative panels. The main advantage of the products is the high quality of materials, characterized by a long service life.

Advantages:

• Brand popularity in Russia and abroad;
• Variety of types of sockets;
• Availability of additional accessories;
• Excellent quality of materials;
• Relatively low price.

Flaws:

No unusual designs.

Although the DKC brand is not a narrowly focused manufacturer of switches or sockets, its products deserve the attention of buyers who are looking for special electrics.

Protective properties of various sockets

The degree of protection of different types of sockets from touch, as well as the ingress of certain parts of solid bodies, particles of dust and moisture, is indicated by the IP marking, where the first digit corresponds to the following indicators:

• - the complete absence of protective functions with open access to equipment nodes;
• 1 - the penetration of large solid bodies with dimensions of more than 5 cm is limited. Protection from the touch of fingers is not supposed;
• 2 - provides protection for the fingers, and also excludes the ingress of an object with a size of 1.25 cm or more;
• 3 - device nodes are protected from possible contact with power tools and other foreign objects, the size of which exceeds 2.5 mm;
• 4 - indicates the presence of protection that prevents the ingress of solid particles larger than 1 mm;
• 5 - indicates partial protection against dust;
• 6 - the highest degree of protection against ingress of any foreign objects, including microscopic dust particles.

The second digit of the marking indicates the degree of protection of the device from moisture. "0" in this case also indicates the absolute insecurity of equipment nodes. Other notations can be seen in the following examples:

• 1 - vertically falling drops will not cause a short circuit when they hit the shell;
• 2 - drops that fall vertically at an angle of no more than 15 degrees will not be able to overcome the shell;
• 3 - protection prevents short circuit even in cases where water drops fall at an angle of 60 degrees;
• 4 - equipment nodes are reliably protected from moisture, regardless of the direction of spray movement;
• 5 - it is allowed to hit a water jet that is not under pressure. Devices with this designation can be washed regularly;
• 6 - the equipment is able to withstand sufficiently powerful directed flows of water;
• 7 - short-term immersion of the device in water to a depth of not more than 1 meter is allowed;
• 8 - diving to a considerable depth is allowed;
• 9 - absolute tightness allows the equipment to function under water for an unlimited duration.

The NEMA mark is used for US-certified electrical outlet types. Below are the areas of use for devices with different "NEMA" ratings:

• 1 - products are intended for installation in domestic and administrative premises and provide protection against dirt ingress;
• 2 - designed for domestic premises where there is a possibility of moisture ingress in minimal quantities;
• 3 - devices used outside buildings in conditions of increased dust formation, as well as atmospheric precipitation. Additional characteristics have models "3R" and "3S";
• 4 and 4X - equipment that can withstand the dirt sprayed as a result of traffic, as well as resistant to aggressive weather conditions;
• 6 and 6P - protective functions are provided by a sealed case, thanks to which the device can be under water at a relatively shallow depth;
• 11 - products are mainly used in places where corrosion processes constantly occur;
• 12 and 12K - designed for rooms with an increased level of dust formation;
• 13 - are particularly resistant to various types of pollution, including oily substances.

There are also other types of markings, which, for example, indicate the degree of strength of the product body. However, it does not make sense to consider this indicator in relation to a conventional household outlet.

Correct selection options

Categories sockets and switches for the apartment divided into simple and special. Expensive web-driven innovations with a special type of grounding, or designed for low-power media, with voltage indication and even a special mechanism that allows you to pull the plug without any effort. All this is not a cheap pleasure, but if they are produced by a manufacturer, then there is a demand.

Most of these appliances designed for special cases, for example, with protection against children - for installation where there are small children, with protection against dust and moisture - in the bathroom, retractable - in the kitchen.

For bathroom

The PUE norms previously prohibited the installation of an outlet and even a switch in the bathroom, in order to avoid electric shock. Even washing machines came with longer cord lengths to allow connections to be made from the outside with moisture. Now there are sockets with a spring-loaded cover that provide drip and splash protection even while plugging in. There are overhead waterproof ones - for those who thought about installation too late, but built-in ones are safer, although more effort is needed to install them.

If the socket is for connecting a washing machine machine, there must be a copper cable of the appropriate section to it, and if it is also planned to connect heaters, then the thickness of the socket cable is increased by at least one and a half times.

Kitchen

The main requirement for sockets in the kitchen is their verified number and exact location for the appliances used.If you have to stretch the extension cord, then this is both unaesthetic and inconvenient. A free outlet for a laptop or charging can be simple, or protected from pollution. For a washing machine or electric stove, you will have to purchase with a thick copper cable and allocate a separate line. With a button for free exit, the plug can be installed for a refrigerator or microwave if its location is at the back of the appliance and requires effort to reach the right place.

Experts recommend choosing sockets for the kitchen with protection against dirt and dust, because potential interference is constantly present in the functional room.

Bedroom and hall

The main selection criterion switch and plug connection points in the bedroom and hall is the maximum convenience. Most often, the most banal one is used here - a toggle switch, although complex options can also be used - for example:

• on a push-button timer;
• with automatic shutdown at a specified time;
• a block of several inputs for connecting nightlights and necessary household electrical appliances;
• a key that allows you to immediately provide darkness and silence with one touch.

Both in the bedroom and in the hall - the aesthetic component is important

Therefore, attention is paid to the color and decor of the electrical outlet. But in the hall it is better to give preference to the built-in type with a backlight indicator, and in the bedroom - to facilitate pressing when awake with the same light of the indicator, only with a soft toggle key of the overhead type

It is easy and simple to find it with your hand in the dark, and the characteristic click is much quieter.

Living room and corridor

There are no restrictions, except for the correct location and aesthetic component.For both types of electrical appliances, the most convenient place is provided, and their number and height are calculated depending on the electrical appliances used. A computer and a TV, a home theater and an electric fireplace, shelving lighting, a table lamp or a floor lamp by the chairs are taken into account. All that is required from the owners of the premises is to ensure the maximum aesthetics of the premises, where outsiders are most often allowed. The socket and switch must match the style decision - be built-in, in a suitable color, and if it works with a texture - the option will be just perfect.

Veranda and balcony

You can get by with the correct installation of overhead options so as not to mess with electrical wiring, but if the owners intend to do everything at the highest level, it is better to take it with an indicator and dust protection. If children often play on the veranda or balcony, you need to take a model with special protection, and when the owners prefer to work not in the office or bedroom, but on the balcony and equip a workplace there, you should also think about an outlet for the Internet.

Living room

1. At the door

For location of switches and sockets at the door of the living room the same rules apply as in the kitchen: height 75-90 cm, free access for all family members with different heights.

An outlet is also needed in the entrance area: for a vacuum cleaner or a heater. On average, the height from the floor should be 30 cm, from the doorway - 10 cm.

2. In the TV zone

TV is a must for many in the living room. The TV area needs several outlets. The average location height is 130 cm, then they will not be visible behind the equipment. You will need 2 electrical outlets and one outlet for TV and Internet.

Design: Studio NW-Interior

3. In the sofa area

When planning sockets in the living room, you need to consider the location of floor lamps, electrical appliances, as well as additional sockets for a laptop and phone. The average height of the location is from 30 cm.

Often, when planning outlets in living rooms, they forget about appliances such as air conditioners, electric fireplaces, air humidifiers and game consoles. Consider the appliances you have, those that you plan to purchase, and based on this, plan the number of outlets.

4. At the desktop

Often the living room is also a work area. In this case, more outlets will be needed. Provide 2-3 pieces in the place where the desktop will stand. It is more convenient to place them above the table so as not to climb under it every time to turn it on / off, but not everyone likes this solution aesthetically. If you have a desktop computer, you can put sockets at the bottom - hardly will you constantly turn it on and off.

Design: ItalProject