To watch your favorite show, heat food in the microwave or drink aromatic tea, you need to plug in the appropriate appliances. The latter should not only be functional, but also have an attractive appearance so as not to spoil the design of the room. A huge number of electrical sockets are produced for homes and apartments from domestic and foreign manufacturers, differing in materials of manufacture, functionality, color, and installation method. We will tell you below which company is better to choose a product.

Construction device

In every apartment and country house, inconspicuous devices are installed that ensure the operation of a TV, electric kettle, washing machine, refrigerator and many other electrical appliances that are so necessary for people’s comfortable living. To avoid mistakes when choosing, you need to understand the characteristics of the products.

The main elements of the product are:

• frame;
• built-in fittings;
• cable for connecting the fittings to the power source.

The potential difference between the internal contacts contributes to the creation of voltage, which is the power source for absolutely all electrical appliances. Voltage is transmitted through special holes.

The structure of the fittings is as follows:

1. The base is made of ceramic or plastic. Contacts are secured using metal plates.
2. An additional function of the plates is as a place for screw fastening of cables.
3. Popular models with a grounding function are available. They are equipped with an additional contact or plate.
4. The structure is installed in a glass or attached to the back cover with rails. Depends on the type of installation.

An upper decorative overlay is required. It is screwed to the base using screws. Models with snap-on clip are available. Only in this form can the product be used safely.

What is proper electrics?

Technical issues and safety issues of the electrical system in a house or electricians in an apartment are usually considered by professional electricians to be the most important criterion for evaluating this system. This is of course true, but comfort, practicality and versatility of the electrical system are also very important.

To satisfy both requirements - 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 major repairs or construction of an apartment or house. Before designing, you must initially know how this or that space in your home will be arranged (rooms, bathroom, kitchen, and so on).

What are there

There are a great variety of product options. According to buyers, it is necessary to first decide which product is best to buy, and only then visit specialized retail outlets or place an order online in an online store. Experts recommend understanding the types of structures produced. Today on store shelves you can find the following options:

View	Description
External	Installed on the surface. There is no recess in the wall for fittings. Designed for open and hidden wiring. Installation is quite simple: the wires are connected to the terminals, the base is attached to the surface, and everything is closed with a special lid. Durable plastic is used in the manufacture of the case. Number of nests – from 1 to 4.
Built-in	Designed for one seat - a socket box. There are one or two sockets for plugs. To install the fittings, special blades are used, which are clamped with screws or attached to the glass with self-tapping screws. Suitable for hidden wiring only. The configuration of the seats and their number depends on the decorative overlay - the frame. The block can contain different types of sockets. Almost all products supplied to the market are completely ready for installation. Has a square or rectangular shape. Installation of socket boxes is not required.
Portable	The second name is extension cords. Often purchased for use at sites where it is impractical or impossible to carry out full wiring. Designed for temporary connection of electrical appliances. Pads are available for two or four sockets. The cable and plug are included in the set. Available in different lengths. Can be equipped with power switches. If the cable is too long, the manufacturer equips it with a reel for winding. Products also differ in rated current. The indicator is measured in amperes.

A special line of products is produced for installation in rooms with high humidity levels. We are talking about bathrooms and kitchens. The products have an increased moisture protection rating. Sold with a plastic lid covering the front side. The reverse side of the reinforcement is covered with a sealed elastic film.

Based on the permissible voltage, designs are divided into:

1. 220V. There are two working contacts: phase and zero. Available with or without grounding function. They are divided into portable, external and built-in. They differ in the shape and number of contact holes.
2. 380 V. Provides from one to three phases, a neutral line and grounding. The configuration of the shape and placement of the contacts is such that a specific plug is expected to be connected in a specific position. This will make it possible not to get confused in the lines. An integral accessory for connecting electric stoves, the power of which requires the use of special products. The maximum permissible current is 32 amperes.
3. Low current. They are very popular when connecting phones, the Internet, TVs and acoustic devices. Internal installation is provided. Can be an integral part of the block. The base is ceramic or plastic. Contacts are spring-type. Available for indoor and outdoor installation. The wires vary in color. The number of cores is from 2 to 16. They are twisted and crimped with a special device.

And further…

All this, of course, at first glance is understandable and seems to be uncomplicated. It seems like you can handle it yourself. And it’s true: buy a screwdriver, pliers, a couple of rolls of cable, and your new homemade electrician is ready.

You can google a couple more articles on the topic “how to plug in sockets correctly.” Draw a diagram and plug in all the sockets, saving some money on the designer, planner and professional team. But you probably already have an idea of ​​what will come of it. By the way, the fire service number is 101.

Varieties of produced models

In addition to the main classification, they are standard and unusual, with additional functionality and fit perfectly into the smart home, CSN and British standard ecosystem. Let's look at the most common variations:

1. Colored. Designed to decorate or complement the existing design in a room. So, for a wooden country house, a “wood-look” accessory is suitable. On sale you can find products of all colors and with beautiful headbands. Various new products are released every year. The question of where to buy is not worth it. They are sold at any specialized retail outlet. You can also order online, in the online store.
2. Made in retro style. It will fit perfectly into a country wooden estate, decorated in an antique style. When arranging an apartment, they can also act as a key decorative element. The average price of a product is higher than its usual counterparts. Reviews about them are only positive.
3. With special protective curtains. This is necessary for families with small children. Design features of the device - the holes open only after strong pressure from the fork. In their untouched form, the holes are not visible and do not attract the attention of naughty people.
4. With timer. The accessory makes it possible to disconnect an electrical device from the power supply at a certain time. An ideal option for a country house and apartment. Quite a convenient option. Available in electronic and mechanical versions.
5. Wi-fi and GSM devices. Modern type of devices. They can be controlled remotely. An integral component of a “smart home”. You can turn electrical equipment on and off while away from home. Also turn on the air conditioner half an hour before the family arrives at the apartment, so that in the hot summer you can enjoy the slight coolness.
6. Equipped with a special fork ejector. If you often have to use the device, then it is better to purchase products with this function. It is equipped with a special key, when pressed, the plug pops up and the electrical equipment is de-energized. A frequent guest in the kitchen, where you constantly have to use a variety of household appliances.
7. With backlight. Very comfortable models. A tiny burning light bulb will help you navigate in pitch darkness.
8. Special purpose. There are rooms in which sockets are located “like on a powder keg.” Constant steam, high humidity and flowing water can cause a short circuit or electric shock. What should you pay special attention to to avoid negative consequences? By type of case. On sale you can find the marking IP-XX, where XX are numbers indicating the peculiarity of the outlet. The higher they are, the greater the protection class. If you are going to install the device in a dusty environment, then you should choose products with an index of at least 65. For bathrooms, the ideal level of protection would be IP

There are floor and window designs on the market. The first option is of the retractable type. They feature advanced functionality. Experts advise buying products made from logs for installation in country houses. A similar solution will look impressive in modern apartments. The device connection diagram can be found on the Internet.

The window view belongs to the innovative category. Installation takes place in glass. In this case, the transformation of electricity occurs through the use of sunlight. The product costs a lot of money, but pays for itself quite quickly. Looks stylish in a window opening.

Bedroom

What to do in the bedroom? Sleep? Certainly. But there is technology here too, so it’s worth figuring out in advance where to place the sockets in the room.

Sleeping area

If your bedroom has a classic format with a double bed and bedside tables at the edges, it would be nice to have two points near each of them: connect a night light and charge your mobile phone or tablet. The same number of connectors is needed for two separate beds. If the bedroom also has a dressing table, then there should certainly be sockets near it, preferably two or three. Turn on the hairdryer, for example.

TV zone

A TV in the bedroom is a common sight. Most often it is hung on the wall so that it is convenient to watch it while lying on the bed. Therefore, a point is needed for it too. The principle of its installation is the same as for a hanging TV in the living room - behind the screen. The air conditioner in the bedroom requires another outlet, which must be installed at the top, next to where the air conditioner is installed. Remember those ugly hanging wires? Just the same case.

How to choose a suitable design

Everyone's selection criteria are different. At the same time, few people will look towards the budget option, since the safety of people depends on such “high-quality” products. Key parameters that should not be overlooked:

1. Material of manufacture. Products should not emit an unpleasant odor. Otherwise, it will negatively affect the health of the residents. It is advisable to give preference to ceramics, as they are designed to withstand significant loads. The material must be durable and wear-resistant. The soft base quickly deforms and loses its original qualities. It is worth reading the attached instructions carefully. There must be a description of the chemical composition of the product.
2. Wiring type. If hidden wiring has already been installed in the room, then you should choose products with a hidden type of fastening. They are mounted in boxes and recessed into the walls. Only the decorative frame remains on the outside.
3. Security level. Under no circumstances should anyone be allowed to receive an electric shock. This is especially true for children, whose curiosity can go beyond understanding. To do this, the manufacturer equips some models with protective covers or curtains. If installation will be carried out in wooden structures, then the rear wall of the housing must be made of refractory plastic, ceramics or metal. It is strictly forbidden to install low-fusible devices in wood, as such a solution can cause a fire.

An ideal model should meet the following criteria:

1. Full compliance with the cross-section diameter and load of the wires.
2. Have high-quality insulation.
3. Comply with environmental conditions.
4. Master the total power consumption of simultaneously switched on electrical equipment.
5. Produced taking into account fire safety requirements.

From Legrand to IEK - or how to buy good sockets and switches

Waterproof sockets

Power sockets

Sockets with curtains

Telephone sockets

TV sockets

Most often, one series of sockets and switches is chosen for the entire apartment. This is a good option, but before purchasing it is better to make a list of what types are needed, where and how many. If you plan a complete renovation, you will need:

• waterproof sockets in the bathroom;
• special sockets for the stove in the kitchen;
• sockets with curtains (if there are children in the house);
• ordinary sockets for electrical appliances in rooms, in the kitchen, in the hallway, on an insulated balcony or loggia (think about whether it might be better for you to install double models in some areas);
• sockets for computer cable, telephone and television.

The list turns out to be impressive, but that's not scary. Let's just start getting acquainted with sockets of one type.

For the bathroom

Legrand Valena Waterproof socket

Schneider Electric Glossa Waterproof socket

Legrand Celiane Waterproof socket

Legrand Plexo Waterproof socket

Available in the lines of sockets and switches of almost all brands. But the best products are presented in series from Legrand and Schneider Electric.

• Legrand (Plexo, Celiane, Valena, Etika, Galea Life);
• Schneider Electric (Sedna, Glossa series).

Speaking of aesthetics, waterproof Celiane and Valena are the most attractive, fashionable and trendy. Used for designer renovations and bold design ideas. In terms of installation locations, if you want to install wall sockets, choose Plexo; if you plan to hide everything, then Celiane.

Sockets with curtains

Legrand Valena Rosette with curtains

ABB Zenit Socket outlet with curtains

Schneider Electric Unica Socket with curtains

Or, as they are often called, with “child protection”, they are also available in all lines. If you choose, for example, Legrand’s Ethics for the bathroom, you will also find children’s ones in the assortment. But, if you decide to make a bright room for your baby, then pay attention to these series:

• Valena by Legrand
• Zenit from ABB
• Unica from Schneider Electric

In addition to high-quality protection against “illegal access,” these sockets with curtains fit perfectly into children’s interiors, thanks to a large selection of colors, both mechanisms and frames. If you want a green or crimson frame to match the color of the wallpaper, please tell me how many pieces.

Overview of operating rules

Such structures must be operated taking into account safety precautions. Regardless of how much the design costs, who made it and what its characteristics are, there is a single list of rules that must be strictly followed:

1. Do not connect devices with a higher load.
2. Do not install near heating devices.
3. The plug should ideally fit the holes in the socket and fit into them tightly.
4. If there is significant humidity in the room, you need to choose models with an increased level of protection.
5. It is strictly forbidden to operate products with visible damage. They can cause smoke, fire and sparks.
6. Do not allow the socket to be immersed in water or splashed on it.
7. It is advisable to maintain the operating temperature range from -25 to +50 degrees.
8. Do not use abrasive products for cleaning. Just a dry cloth.
9. If damage is detected, you should immediately turn off the power to the room.

Video instructions for installing sockets:

Children's

Sleeping area

The children's room is the same bedroom, only for younger family members. While they are very small, they do not need many electrical appliances: a night light by the crib is quite enough.

Game Zone

But later, your offspring will need additional places for charging: for gaming gadgets, a personal computer and computer peripherals, and a game console. The two required by building codes are clearly not enough, especially if there is more than one child.

Connectors in children's rooms are often made “safe,” that is, with special covers and plugs that the baby cannot pull out on his own. If the child is small, it makes sense to install just these. And no dangling wires for a child to pull on!

Workplace

It is also necessary to consider the number of sockets in the space that you plan to allocate under your desk. All computer equipment and table lighting require one point for each piece of equipment. And, as always, one more in reserve.

Rating of quality plug sockets

Universal Olymp O-0028 (15529645)

The Russian brand is produced in the Middle Kingdom. There are no complaints about the product, despite the more than acceptable cost of the product. It is based on the use of brass contacts, which provide greater current carrying capacity. The manufacturer provides a three-year warranty on its products. With grounding function. Installed in an open way. Suitable for both apartments and office spaces. Single post. The body is made of durable plastic. Color – white, universal. The sizes are compact. Degree of protection – IP20.

You can purchase the products at a price of 99 rubles.

Universal Olymp O-0028 (15529645)

Advantages:

• meets European quality standards;
• screw type clamps;
• contact groups of brass type;
• markings on the body;
• grounding is provided;
• service life – 50,000 cycles;
• cross section from 0.1 to 2.5 sq. mm.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Schneider Electric 3-m OP Etude, SchE PA16-012B, 401803 (15788784)

The model is very popular due to its compactness, attractive appearance and ease of installation. There is no need to resort to outside help. Installation type: open. Number of nests – 3 units. Sold assembled. There is no need to purchase additional components. Product weight 140 grams. Parameters – 155x79x52 mm. The French brand is produced by a domestic company. Quality is controlled at all stages of production.

The average cost is 263 rubles.

Schneider Electric 3-m OP Etude, SchE PA16-012B, 401803 (15788784

Advantages:

• reliability;
• safety;
• functionality;
• practicality;
• will handle high rated voltage;
• Excellent value for money and quality;
• quality of materials used;
• wear resistance.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Ionich b/w, white, euroslot 1417 (15867360)

A surface-mounted socket from a time-tested Chinese manufacturer is installed using an open method. Device with 2 sockets. It comes fully assembled, so installation is not difficult. White color. The frame is included. The maximum permissible current is 16 A. It is extremely popular among domestic consumers due to the optimal price-quality ratio. Can be purchased at any specialized retail outlet.

Purchase price – 125 rubles.

Ionich b/w, white, euroslot 1417 (15867360)

Advantages:

• versatility;
• ease of use;
• ease of installation;
• long service life;
• safety.

Flaws:

• There is no protection, curtains or cover.

2P+3 beech TDM Ladoga SQ/1801/0034 (15516537)

The device involves an overhead installation method. Designed for one slot. Degree of protection – IP20. Made in beech wood, which looks great in a modern interior. Belongs to the category of power. Cover and grounding are not provided. In the manufacture of the case, high-quality ABS plastic is used. The design does not belong to the modular category. Dimensions: 64x64x43 mm. It is considered the best budget option based on the stated cost.

The purchase price is 152 rubles.

2P+3 beech TDM Ladoga SQ/1801/0034 (15516537)

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• durability;
• strength of the materials used;
• ease of installation;
• safety.

Flaws:

• none.

Svetozar_Gamma SV/54107/DM (13667298)

A product from a domestic manufacturer, which is assembled in the Middle Kingdom. Double model. Installation is allowed only inside heated rooms. The base is fire-resistant, made of durable ceramics. Complete safety is guaranteed. There is grounding, which negates the possibility of electric shock. Color – dark gray. The maximum permissible voltage is 250 V. It will last at least five years.

The average cost is 133 rubles.

Svetozar_Gamma SV/54107/DM (13667298)

Advantages:

• unusual design solution;
• safety;
• practicality;
• wear resistance;
• durability;
• effective color scheme;
• surface shiny, smooth;
• presence of two nests;
• the body is made of high-quality polycarbonate;
• reliability.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Rating of the best models of overhead sockets

Universal Seville ivory B/S-0028 (15747572)

A universal household device used to power various household appliances operating from a 220 V network. A high level of safety is guaranteed by the grounding contacts located in the socket. Color – ivory. The ideal solution for most cases. Built-in installation is provided. Sold assembled. Degree of protection – IP20. Weighs 100 grams. Durable ABS plastic is used in the manufacture of the case. Dimensions: 82x44x81 mm.

Cost - 136 rubles.

Universal Seville ivory B/S-0028 (15747572

Advantages:

• hull strength;
• convenient fastening using claws or screws;
• ceramic base;
• ease of installation;
• maximum permissible load – 3.5 kW;
• service life of at least 10 years.

Flaws:

• not found.

Universal Diamond 7948806 (15529335)

The product is made in ivory color. Equipped with grounding. Suitable for connecting a variety of household appliances. Durable, reliable and environmentally friendly plastic is used in the manufacture of the case. Requires hidden installation. Number of nests – 1 unit. The maximum current consumption is 16 A. Weight is 110 grams. Dimensions – 80x80x40 mm. Belongs to the category of power. Sold in packaging containing a product passport.

The average cost is 117 rubles.

Universal Diamond 7948806 (15529335

Advantages:

• ease of installation;
• attractive appearance;
• block execution;
• use of brass contact groups;
• marked body;
• three-year warranty from the manufacturer;
• The body is made of durable and environmentally friendly material.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Schneider Electric Atlas Design ATN-000144 124147 (15846292)

The universal white socket is produced by a French company. Installation - hidden. The kit includes grounding and protective curtains. Sold assembled. There is nothing complicated about the installation. The color matches any interior. High-quality plastic is used in production. Weight – 76 grams. Dimensions – 83x83x42 mm.

The average price is 164 rubles.

Schneider Electric Atlas Design ATN-000144 124147 (15846292)

Advantages:

• safety;
• strength of the materials used;
• build quality;
• wear resistance;
• reliability;
• durability.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Era Expert 11/2404/01 2x2P+E IP54, 16AX/250V, OU, B-0020718 (15747423)

Despite the presence of Chinese assembly, the product belongs to the category of reliable and high-quality. Made from non-flammable materials. The protective covers are spring-loaded and made of tinted plastic. Installation takes place using the overhead method. The type of connection to the electrical wiring is open. It is not afraid of dust and high humidity and has a degree of protection IP54. There are two nests. The inclusion type is normal. Weighs 160 grams.

Purchase price – 498 rubles.

Era Expert 11/2404/01 2x2P+E IP54, 16AX/250V, OU, B-0020718 (15747423)

Advantages:

• the presence of protective curtains;
• screw terminals;
• main material – durable polycarbonate;
• frequency – 50/60 Hz;
• reliability;
• long service life;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Legrand Valena 774420 (15142410)

Single seat fixture made in Portugal. It is durable and strong. Made in white and modern style. The mechanism is made of metal. The linings are impact-resistant plastic. There is grounding, which has a beneficial effect on the safety factor. Hidden installation is implied. Weight – 0.2 kg. User reviews are only positive.

The average price is 182 rubles.

Legrand Valena 774420 (15142410)

Advantages:

• durable metal mechanism;
• durability;
• wear resistance;
• presence of grounding;
• reliability.

Flaws:

• not identified.

No. 5. Switch selection

Many parameters for choosing an outlet are also valid for a switch:

• According to the type of installation, switches can be overhead or built-in. The choice largely depends on the wiring in the apartment;
• Depending on operating conditions, switches with varying degrees of protection from dust and moisture . For rooms with consistently high levels of humidity, it is recommended to choose switches with a plastic or rubber casing;
• specifications the circuit breaker will be indicated in its marking and are selected depending on the rated network voltage, current and power of the devices with which the circuit breakers will operate.

mounting method, switches can be:

• screw, similar to screw sockets. Experts say that such switches are best used with aluminum wiring, which does not spark or heat up;
• screwless ones are often used with copper wiring.

Depending on the design features , switches are divided into:

• changeover – the most familiar and easiest-to-manage option;

• rotary – this mechanism is often used in retro-style switches. To turn it on, you need to turn the lever clockwise;

• push-button - an option that can be compared in convenience to a flip-over, but has not yet found distribution. To turn on the light, just press the button; the same button is pressed to turn it off;

• dimmers They allow you not only to turn on the light, but also to adjust its brightness by turning the lever. This is very economical and convenient when you need to create different lighting scenarios in one room. Dimmers are usually used with incandescent and halogen lamps - finding a fluorescent or LED lamp that can connect to a dimmer is difficult, and it will cost a couple of times more than a regular one.

Several switches can be installed on one panel, which are responsible for turning on different groups of lamps - this is a common and quite convenient solution today. Moreover, the same lamps can be controlled from different places in the room - this requires the installation of additional switches. The system becomes more complex, but comfort increases. “Smart” switches with motion sensors, touch or remote control are installed in “smart home” systems.

Separately, it is worth highlighting the illuminated switches : a built-in small light will tell you that there is electricity and will make it easier to search in pitch darkness. You can install a switch with a timer or a switch at home that will respond to clap .

Rating of the best built-in sockets

Volsten V-01/15/F-12/M, RJ/11 Magenta Argento, 10015 (15590822)

A single socket is designed to connect telephones. Suitable for both a country house and an apartment, as well as an office. Requires hidden installation. The set includes a frame. No protective curtains, grounding or cover are provided. Durable plastic is used in the construction. Made in silver color. Will become a decoration of any interior. Weighs 50 g. Parameters – 70x70x35 mm. Installation is quick and hassle-free. You can use either a Phillips or slotted screwdriver. The clamp contacts are convenient.

The purchase price is 225 rubles.

Volsten V-01/15/F-12/M, RJ/11 Magenta Argento, 10015 (15590822)

Advantages:

• beautiful appearance;
• practicality;
• compactness;
• reliability.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Universal Seville S-0047 (15529321)

A product from a domestic manufacturer, assembled in China. It is very popular due to the presence of protective curtains. There is no grounding. Ideally fits into any interior. Not afraid of dust in high humidity. Dimensions – 80x80x30 mm. Installation type: hidden. One nest. It comes pre-assembled, so installation takes just a few minutes. High-quality plastic is used in the manufacture of the case.

The average cost is 132 rubles.

Universal Seville S-0047 (15529321)

Advantages:

• safety;
• reliability;
• high build quality;
• ease of operation;
• three-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Schneider Electric 2-m Atlas Desing ATN-000520 1240315 (15846285)

Product from a French manufacturer. Number of nests – 2 units. Sold assembled. The maximum permissible current is 16 A. Protection level is IP20. The color is attractive - champagne. The product is made of high-quality plastic. Weight – 0.067 kg. Dimensions – 83x125x40 mm. Sold in durable packaging. The reviews are only positive.

The average price is 302 rubles.

Schneider Electric 2-m Atlas Desing ATN-000520 1240315 (15846285)

Advantages:

• practicality;
• safety;
• functionality;
• wear resistance.

Flaws:

• none.

Era 12/2101/03 2P+E Schuko, 16AH/250Wb B0014677 (15747387)

The products are manufactured by a Chinese company, but the build quality and materials used are excellent. Designed for connecting household appliances to the electrical network. There is grounding. Has a modern appearance. The body color is silver. There is no decorative frame in the set, which makes it possible to choose one to suit every taste and color. Number of sockets – 1. Degree of protection – IP20. The installation is not modular. The kit includes an overlay. Made from high quality polycarbonate. The lid and protective curtains are missing.

The average cost is 263 rubles.

Era 12/2101/03 2P+E Schuko, 16AH/250Wb B0014677 (15747387

Advantages:

• presence of grounding;
• hidden installation;
• automatic terminals;
• number of cables – 2;
• compactness;
• safety;
• reliability;
• ease of use;
• long service life.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Corridor and hallway

In the corridor or hallway, two or three pieces will be enough. Most often they are used to turn on a shoe dryer. Therefore, do not raise the connectors too high. Of course, there is no need to hide them behind a hanger or behind the door; it is best to place them in the corners. It is better to turn on wall lamps directly, through a separate switch connected to the mains.