Types of switches and sockets. Types of electrical sockets and switches: what they are and how to choose correctly

Every day we use sockets to connect electrical appliances to a 220-volt network, but we don’t think at all about the socket itself. Meanwhile, sockets are different. And within the framework of this article, we will look at how a socket works, and talk about what kind of sockets there are in general.

In everyday life today, sockets of the European standard are installed everywhere, having a tight-fitting plug, often with a deep seat. The holes for the plug are, of course, round; the difference between the Euro-standard socket and the old Soviet ones is that the socket accepts plugs with thicker pins.

Any modern socket consists of: a base with fasteners, current-carrying parts and a front cover. The base of the socket with fastening tabs or ears has current-carrying parts on it, and the front cover (panel) is also attached to it. Base material: plastic or ceramic.

Ceramic bases withstand high temperatures better; such sockets are more expensive. Sockets with plastic bases are cheaper, but just like ceramic ones, they do not support combustion, since the plastic here is special - polycarbonate with additives.

As for the current-carrying parts, they are usually made of brass or bronze. Brass is only bad because in its untinned form it easily oxidizes in conditions of high humidity, especially when in contact with aluminum, which is why the contacts not only lose their former conductive properties, but also lose their springiness. Therefore, brass contacts are equipped with additional spring washers.

It is better if the contacts are tinned; they have a matte white color. Tinned contacts fit more tightly to the plug pins. But the best thing is that the contacts are bronze, they are resistant to oxidation and have excellent springiness, holding the plug in place well.

The grounding pins on the outlet are very important. There are many devices that require grounding for both protection and proper operation electronics. Powerful household appliances, including especially those related to water, such as and, must be grounded.

Electronics with microcircuits are sensitive to electrostatics, so computers, televisions, various office equipment and multimedia equipment are also grounded to remove static in order to avoid failure. This is why you need sockets with grounding contacts.

Sockets without a grounding contact also exist; they are cheaper and, as a rule, have a smaller plug mounting depth.

Terminals are used to connect wires to the socket. The terminals can be screw or self-adjusting without screws. The fact is that fastening the wire with a screw gradually weakens due to the fluidity of the metal of the wire, due to heating of the connection under load. Therefore, it is necessary to periodically tighten the screws in the socket.

Self-clamping connectors automatically tighten the wire, holding it tightly at the contact point all the time. With self-clamping connectors, you won’t have to tighten anything during the entire life of the socket.

As for the front panel of the outlet, it is most often made of polycarbonate with additives that do not support combustion, but there are outlets with metal, wood, and even glass panels.

There are many designs of sockets on the market today with a variety of decorative elements, some of which can be changed to your taste without removing the socket.

Sockets are built-in and overhead, for hidden and open wiring. If the wiring runs inside the wall, then it is more advisable to install the socket in a recess in the wall, in a socket box, this is safe, such installation is most often used in residential premises.

Overhead sockets are installed when the wiring is open, that is, it goes straight along the wall from above. Such solutions can be found in suburban wooden houses, in garden houses, as well as in non-residential premises, for example, in warehouses - the socket is simply fixed to the wall from the outside, and not recessed into the seat, like a built-in one.

A regular socket for indoor installation does not have any additional elements on the front panel; everything ends with the front panel. But there is. Here, the front panel has additional protection with a special cover, which protects the outlet from foreign objects, precipitation, dirt, etc., when it is not in use.

For example, a socket for turning on a sink high pressure in the garden it can be just like this - with a lid. The degree of protection of the shell of such an outlet is about IP54.

To reliably protect the user from injury electric shock, there are sockets equipped with protective curtains. The holes into which the plug pins are inserted have special shutters that open the socket contacts only when the plug pins are inserted into the socket.

The mechanism for opening the curtains can be different; they usually open upward when pressed with force with a fork. These curtains are protection against accidental contact with foreign objects under voltage, so that children are not unduly tempted to put something into the hole.

Sockets for wet areas

Sockets for wet rooms have an enclosure protection rating greater than the usual IP22, for example IP44 or IP54, like those with covers for outdoor installation. Data on the degree of resistance of the socket to moisture and dust are indicated on the packaging.

Some sockets have built-in leakage protection, that is, they are equipped with a button on the outside of such sockets for testing the built-in RCD.

What if it is more convenient to press a button on a socket and turn on a device plugged into the socket than to press a button on the device itself? What if there is no button on the device? A socket combined with a switch will be useful here. By pressing the switch, the contact connectors of the socket are connected to the wiring, and by pressing they are disconnected.

A special button on the socket allows you to freely pull out the plug with minimal effort. This is useful if you often plug different devices into the same outlet. The inserted plug is held tightly in the socket, but if you press the button on the side, it is very easy to pull out the plug, almost without effort.

Sometimes it becomes necessary to set a timer so that the device turns off after a while. For example, so as not to forget to turn off the stove or iron. Simply, and after a set time, the switch will 100 percent de-energize the load connected to this outlet.

Andrey Povny

If you have started a major renovation in an apartment or private house, then you cannot do without work related to electrical wiring. After all the cables are laid and sealed, it's time to choose sockets and switches. Not everyone can name the best brands in this segment, and therefore we will try to fill in the theoretical gaps in order to facilitate the subsequent selection of electrical accessories. We will not talk about “conveyor” construction, when equipment is purchased in large quantities, but about ordinary and private electrical work.

We will identify the most popular manufacturers producing sockets and switches (the best brands), taking into account the opinions of specialists in this field and reviews of ordinary owners of these accessories.

Selection criteria

The desire of any potential buyer is to choose a good product with an optimal price-quality ratio. In our case, sockets and switches (the best brands) will vary greatly in the price range - from 25 rubles to 300.

In principle, we can distinguish two main groups of this kind of accessories, where the critical factor is the price: the oldest - about 300 rubles per product, the youngest - about 50 rubles per copy.

The article will be partly subjective, because it is very difficult to cover the entire range that is presented on the shelves of electrical goods stores, and a large number of counterfeits can give the buyer an erroneous opinion about a particular brand. It is also worth noting that the products that will participate in the review are intended only for hidden installation in the wall (standard socket outlet with a switch). By and large, we are not interested in the specific cost of products, but in the price difference between products from different manufacturers.

The main criterion for the review is that it is classic, that is, products without pretentiousness, but at the same time not primitively simple. In general, everything that you wouldn’t be ashamed to install at your place or at a good friend’s house. Due to the wild popularity of modular electrical products (prefabricated frames, replaceable frames, composite bases, etc.), they will be considered as a basis.

Manufacturers of electrical goods (sockets and switches)

The best brands and famous manufacturers of electrical accessories have their own, sometimes very rich, history, their own production, and have also received recognition at specialized exhibitions.

In addition, the list indicated below can be seen in the reports of large companies involved in the construction and improvement of buildings.

Popular brands that produce sockets and switches (best manufacturers) are as follows:

• Legrand;
• Wessen;
• Lezard;
• Anam;
• Bticino;
• "Belarusian sockets";
• GUSI;
• Makel;
• Scneider-electric.

Best models

If you rely on prices and consumer reviews, the following picture emerges. The bulk of manufacturers and their products occupied a niche in the budget group, and the leader was a trio of venerable heavyweights. As a result, we will evaluate the quality indicators of two price groups - senior and junior.

Senior price group

1. Legrand.
2. Scneider-electric.
3. Bticino.

The distribution of positions in this group is purely conditional. Each of these three manufacturers has extensive premium collections and a huge range of budget models, that is, sockets and switches, the price of which does not exceed three hundred rubles. Standard and universal solutions of these brands practically do not differ in cost. As for the elite models, they remain just as inaccessible to the average buyer as before, but these are truly high-quality products that will decorate any home.

Legrand sockets and switches come first because of their affordable price. As for Schneider-Electric, the prices there are steep, but at Bticino they can even eat up. But in defense of the latter, we can say that if you hold Bticino products in your hands, then in every element you feel Italian quality, which sends shivers down your spine, while the same “LeGrand” does not evoke such emotions. It is quite possible that “LeGrandom” will no longer surprise anyone, and the Italians have only recently appeared on our market.

As for the Germans Scneider-electric, there is simply nothing to complain about - everything is done beautifully and impeccably. When you turn any socket or switch from Schneider Electric in your hands, you think that you are playing with the legendary Lego constructor.

Any product from the above-mentioned brands is a more than worthy decoration for your apartment or house. If you have available funds, then do not hesitate to spend money on products from one of these manufacturers.

The owners speak very warmly about these companies in their reviews. Users appreciated the quality, beauty and flexible pricing policy of the brands. No critical comments were noted on specialized forums, so there are no questions about quality.

Junior price group

• Anam;
• Wessen;
• Lezard;
• "Belarusian sockets";
• GUSI;
• Makel.

In first place is the fairly popular company Anam. Someone may disagree with this choice, because the products of this brand have a very specific look: awkwardly shaped products with giant buttons and wide brims. But in defense of Anam, we can say that this is one of the best contenders for first place due to the excellent quality of the plastic and the enviable pricing policy, which was appreciated by the domestic consumer.

Reviews of the brand's products are mainly positive. The owners appreciated the high-quality and durable products of the company, as well as the original appearance. Some, on the contrary, complain about the clumsiness and difficulty of adapting switches and sockets to some design solutions, but this is a matter of taste and this factor cannot be attributed to critical moments.

As for the rest of the list, here you can simply say: “cheap and cheerful!” These are ordinary models with some distinctive design features, from which you should not expect anything supernatural. Yes, they meet certain quality standards and standards and can last a long time, but be prepared for some surprises. Judging by the reviews of the products of these companies, sometimes you can find minor manufacturing defects, such as a screw that does not hold the wire, a slightly lopsided button, or an incomprehensible sound when turning off.

To sum it up

If you are engaged in a budget project or are decorating an apartment “for sale,” then the junior price group is an ideal option. Well, in cases of “I’ll do it my way,” your choice is senior group. It would also be worth noting that products from the “solid middle peasants” are very rarely counterfeited, while electrical accessories from European brands, if you look at our shelves, consist of almost 40% counterfeit goods.

How to choose sockets and switches for an apartment?

Sockets and switches - we take only the best brands!

This is how most buyers think and act. And he steps on a rake, because the main thing in electrical installation products is not the brand. Why, you ask? We answer - the name of the company guarantees the quality of the product, durability, aesthetics, but not fitness for purpose. It’s not enough to buy the most expensive socket from a well-known company; you need it to be “correct.” For example, for a bathroom with moisture protection, and for a nursery - with special protection against children.

Therefore, the electrician first thinks about where the installation will be and what the requirements for the product are, and only then about which socket company to choose.

What sockets and switches should be installed in the apartment?

Conventionally, all installation products for an apartment can be divided into ordinary and special. The first category includes indoor sockets and switches. They “live” in calm conditions without increased stress and “natural disasters” in the form of water, steam, and high temperature. This includes sockets for electrical appliances, telephone, computer and television.

Almost all brands, brands and varieties are suitable for rooms.

Note! The only point to consider is small children. If you have them or plan to in the near future, then you will need sockets with child protection in the form of special curtains or a plug with a key lock. To protect young researchers from dangerous current, sockets should be installed both in the children's room and in those places throughout the apartment where the baby can reach them. Most manufacturers have special sockets with child protection in different series.

Among the special ones we include sockets for the stove, the choice of which we have already written about and which are waterproof.

How to choose the right sockets and switches for the bathroom

The bathroom is a special place in an apartment with a wet and hot microclimate. And everything that stands in it is subject to constant loads in the form of water, steam, temperature. This also applies to electrical installation products. Therefore, it is recommended to either take them outside the bathroom or install them protected. The main feature of waterproof sockets is a sealed housing and special curtains that do not allow moisture to enter the mechanism.

The level of protection for such products is not lower than IP 44, or even 54-55. What is hidden behind the numbers 44-55 and so on? The socket is resistant to water and dust. That is, you can water the outlet from the shower or spray it - all the water will remain outside the housing.

A product marked 44 is not afraid of splashes and small streams of water, with an index of 55 it will withstand a jet, and with an index of 66 it will withstand a powerful jet with decent pressure.

But a regular indoor socket has an IP rating of 20 and is only suitable for a room or hallway. It will definitely “drown” in the water and cause a short circuit.

How to choose sockets for the Internet and TV

Television and computer sockets are available in almost all “room” series of most manufacturers. The only thing you need to worry about is:

• In television - type sockets, there are through, terminal and "star". Pass-through TV sockets are necessary if you will connect several TV connection points in series with a cable. The terminal one is placed under the last TV in the network from those connected in series (if you plan to have one TV, then the terminal one is also for you). The “star” type is used to create parallel TV connection points.
• In computers (which are called RJ-45 in professional language) - the category of socket. The most common are categories 5 and 6 internet outlets. The category of sockets must correspond to the category of Internet cable (twisted pair). It determines the data transfer rate. In most cases, it is advisable to use twisted pair cable and Category 5 RJ-45 sockets.

Television sockets should be planned in areas where televisions are located. Computer sockets rj 45 are usually installed in the hallway, from where the signal is broadcast throughout the apartment via a wi-fi router.

We've sorted out the installation locations, now let's talk about which sockets are better to install, external or internal.

“Do we hide the outlet or choose an outdoor installation?”

This question can be heard from would-be electricians, of whom, unfortunately, there are many divorced. A professional master will ask you something else: what kind of wiring, internal or external? Because the sockets will be like this: for internal wiring - hidden in the walls, for external wiring - installed on top.

In a city apartment, the wiring is usually hidden; all sockets are “recessed” into the walls for safe connection to the wires. Well, so as not to interfere with the arrangement of furniture with protruding bodies.

In the bathroom you can install both wall-mounted, moisture-proof sockets and hidden ones. There isn't that much furniture and the cabinet is on the wall next to washing machine or the jacuzzi will not interfere with anything. But the installation must be done by a specialist! Don't risk your safety. And now let's talk why.

The correct outlet in the bathroom or why you need grounding

Grounding ensures safety when using electrical appliances. So that they do not give an electric shock when touched, especially with wet hands or in a damp room. The ground contact removes static and unwanted current from the chassis. After all, it happens that the internal cables of devices have a violation of the insulation and touch external parts. Grounding protects against such troubles, but do not forget that an RCD must be installed on powerful devices and in rooms with high humidity for complete safety.

Now you know how professional electricians approach the issue of choice, and we can talk about which company’s sockets and switches are better. But from the point of view of their practical application...

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

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:

• 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

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:

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.

Which series and brand to choose

There are a huge number of series of sockets from popular and not very popular brands for apartments. Therefore, we will deal with it in this way - we will divide it into prestigious-elite and democratic-affordable.

Legrand	Schneider Electric	ABB	GIRA

Elite and prestigious brands include well-known brands - Legrand, Schneider Electric, ABB, GIRA. Their series can be divided into designer (Legrand Seliane, Gira and ABB Zenit) and popular (Legrand Valena, Etika, Schneider Glossa and Sedna).

You can read about the advantages, aesthetics and other benefits in the descriptions of these lines. Now let's note just one point. Often, when choosing, they give preference to products with metal mechanisms, which is completely in vain.

Plastic ones are just as good, but the quality of a socket or switch depends on the quality of installation and the experience of the technician. For example, the Legrand Etika and Schneider Electric Glossa series are made of polycarbonate plastic and are distinguished by enviable quality and, more than, an affordable price for “branded” products. Moreover, the cases and filling are both durable and plastic. When installing, you have to try hard to cripple them. Even squeezing his paws too hard in the concrete.

This is for the attention of “metal lovers”. And besides, metal mechanism not a panacea, you can install it “crookedly”, so that you have to change it soon.

Economical electrical option

Viko and IEK offer good quality at an affordable price. If you are not chasing designer innovations, doing budget renovations or changing the electrical system in a rented apartment, these products are the most suitable. It will work well for as long as it’s supposed to, and the money will cost you much less than when purchasing prestigious brands.

True, there is only one rake here, you can run into a fake. Of course, “linden” is also produced under famous brands, but the level is so different that a fake ABB or Legrand is much easier to spot than a fake Turkey Viko.

Our store guarantees quality and sells only branded electrical installation products. But, if you have to buy them somewhere in a supermarket or help friends choose, remember 4 useful tips.

How to distinguish fake sockets and switches

1. The first tip is to smell the product. Counterfeits are often riveted from who knows what kind of plastic that smells bad.
2. Tip two - estimate the weight. Original products, especially from expensive series, weigh very well. The materials used are good, durable and of sufficient thickness. A fake will weigh much less.
3. Tip three - look at the quality of the case. There are many cracks and the design is flimsy - you have a fake in your hands. If the housing can be taken apart, check how it fits together. Original sockets and switches are often assembled with latches. If instead of them the case is twisted with screws or simply soldered in places, then it is a fake.
4. Tip four - appearance of contacts. Of course, the easiest way is to check the mechanism for built-in products; it is visible. It’s more difficult with case-based ones, but check the grounding contact there, which is always visible. If he doesn't look in the best possible way, then the hidden ones will be far from ideal. And that means you keep the “samopal” under the brand name.

Let's sum it up

What to do if all the sockets are the same to you, like pale-faced ones to the Indians? And what kind of contacts are there, amperes, etc., you can’t understand? Come visit us!

We will consult and select the necessary sockets, switches, machines, RCDs, and cables. For one apartment or the whole house. We have been working with electricians for a long time, we know the subtleties and secrets that we will generously share with you.

One of the components of the power supply system is the electrical outlet. These devices are found in every house, apartment, and every factory. They are even on the street. However, the modern range of sockets is so wide that it is better to know the main nuances before choosing.

A conventional electrical outlet consists of a plastic front panel and a dielectric base (heat-resistant plastic or ceramic) with contacts and connectors for connecting plugs. The plastic base is cheaper and more durable, the ceramic is more expensive and more fragile. The number of contacts and their shape depends on the type of electrical outlet (single-phase or three-phase, with or without grounding) and the country in which it is used.

Contact materials

Electrical contacts can be made from several different materials:

• brass (for rooms with normal humidity levels);
• tinned brass (for high humidity);
• bronze (for any operating conditions).

The most capricious are brass contacts without sputtering. The color of the metal is light yellow with a pronounced shine. In conditions of high humidity, they quickly oxidize, which leads to poor contact. Also, brass does not spring well, which is why the contact weakens over time. To eliminate this drawback, an electrical socket with brass contacts has additional spring petals that press the contact plates.

The base can be ceramic or plastic, the contacts can be brass and brass with sputtering, bronze

Tinned brass has a matte white color. Due to the protective coating, it oxidizes less, springs better and holds its shape. Such contacts are usually installed in electrical sockets intended for wet rooms and outdoors.

Electrical sockets with bronze contacts are rare, and they can be distinguished at a high price. Bronze contacts are also yellow, but matte and darker. Bronze contacts spring well and provide high-quality contact for a long time.

Ground contact

In addition to phase contacts, the socket may have a grounding contact. It is required when connecting:

• powerful technology;
• equipment that is demanding on the quality of power supply (electronically controlled);
• equipment in the operating cycle of which water is used (for example, and).

In addition, electrical outlets with grounding must be installed in rooms with high humidity; outdoors - this is an electrical safety requirement. Having someone working means your and your family’s safety.

Sockets without grounding are permissible only in dry rooms, and simple devices such as table lamps, low-power oil heaters, convectors, etc. can be connected to them. They are attractive due to their slightly lower price and smaller “depth,” which means that during installation you need to make smaller holes for them. But, no matter how attractive they may be, computers and complex equipment that consume little electricity but are demanding on the quality of power supply must be plugged into grounded sockets. In addition to protecting against electric shock, grounding also removes static, which can be fatal to electronics.

Connecting wires

Wires are connected to the contact plates using screws or screwless clamps (clamping contacts allow for quick connection without using a screwdriver).

Screw connections of sockets can be divided into two types:

1. With the ability to fasten the end of the wire in the form of a loop. Provides an ideal screw connection, so large is the area of ​​contact between the conductor and the contact pad.
2. With the possibility of fastening only the straight end.

When installing sockets of the first type, it will take more time, since you need to make a loop (it is convenient to use pliers), completely unscrew the screws to put it on, and then twist the knot. With sockets of the second type, everything is simple - insert the stripped wire into the contact, and then tighten the screw with a screwdriver.

When using sockets, the contacts undergo a heating/cooling process, which leads to a gradual weakening of the screw contact. For this reason, screws must be tightened once every six months.

Electrical sockets with clamping fixation of conductors allow you to connect as quickly as possible. The stripped end of the wire is inserted into the socket until it stops. The socket has a spring-loaded clamp (spring-loaded contact) that clamps the conductor securely. Due to the elastic force of the spring, contact always remains good. Such terminals are also called automatic.

Leading world leaders (Legrand, Schneider-Electric, Simon and others) produce sockets and switches with both screw and screwless connections. By purchasing products from well-known brands, you can be confident that the screwless connection will ensure proper contact.

Since in modern homes sockets are often combined into blocks, for parallel connections, a separate input of wires is provided - separate holes are provided for jumpers.

Classification of electrical outlets

Even such a simple device as an electrical outlet has many types and varieties. In addition to different materials, they may have different shapes, installation method. There are models that are assembled into blocks of several pieces, equipped with a switch or other types of sockets. Let's talk about all these types of electrical outlets now.

By voltage and current

Electrical sockets are electrical installation products and they have their own technical characteristics: the voltage for which they are intended and the current strength that they can pass through themselves for a long time. In terms of voltage they can be:

• For single-phase networks with a voltage of 220-240 V. The most common type in our country.
• For three-phase networks 380 V.
• For single-phase networks with a voltage of 100-127 V. These are the standards that are used in Japan and the USA.

In our country, most single-phase sockets are installed for 220 V networks, but they also come in different types: they can pass current of different magnitudes through themselves. Conventional sockets are designed for a current of 10-16 A. For connecting high-power household devices (electric stoves, hobs, storage boilers, etc.) you need sockets that can pass a current of 32 A, and sometimes more. For these cases, power electrical sockets are produced. They are large in size, use heat-resistant materials and more powerful contacts.

By installation type

The electrical outlet can be for hidden or open installation. They also say - internal/built-in and external/overhead. A flush-mounted electrical socket (internal) is installed in a hole specially made for it in a wall or other surface. After connection, the front panel is flush with the surface or protrudes just a couple of millimeters.

An electrical outlet for surface mounting (outdoor/surface) is attached to the wall or a special dielectric substrate, which is used if the base is flammable. Installation of such products is simpler, but the appearance is specific. Currently they are mainly used in . Sometimes overhead sockets can be seen in technical rooms, change houses, and garages. In those areas where there are strict requirements for appearance are practically not presented.

There are also retractable sockets that are successfully used in the kitchen. They can be built into the countertop, the bottom of a wall cabinet, the side of cabinet furniture, and even into the floor. Electrical sockets built into furniture are convenient and functional. You need to turn on a household appliance or device - open/lift the lid, sockets appear. There is no need, the lid is closed.

IP degree of protection

U electrical outlets There is also such a technical characteristic as the degree of IP protection ( International Protection Marking. Translated from English - “international security codes”). It shows how protected the product is from moisture and dust. Electrical sockets may be intended for different conditions operation, accordingly they are produced in housings with varying degrees of protection. The most common types are:

• with protection class IP 20. For rooms with normal conditions, with heating running in the cold season.
• IP 21, IP22. They can be installed in rooms without heating, or outdoors under canopies.
• IP43, IP44. In rooms with high humidity, near water sources (waterproof sockets).
• IP 54, IP 55. Can be placed outdoors in the open air.

It is unlikely that you will be able to find sockets with a higher degree of protection in ordinary stores, but these also meet all the requirements for an apartment or private house.

The IP protection degree is indicated in technical specifications, and the scope is in the description

An electrical outlet for outdoor installation may also be equipped with a protective cover that protects the contacts from dust getting inside. Such products can be installed in swimming pools, baths and other rooms with high humidity.

By the number of slots in one housing

A different number of sockets can be placed in one housing. If there are two or more sockets, such products are called socket blocks. They can also have built-in switches or sockets of other types - for connecting the Internet, for example, a USB cable, etc.

The following socket options are often found:

In modern new buildings, blocks are used consisting of several single internal sockets, which are given integrity using a common frame. As a rule, each socket is installed in its own round socket box.

To install socket blocks, universal rectangular socket boxes can be used, which in many cases is more convenient than using round socket boxes.

Electrical outlets with additional options

There are electrical outlets in every home, office, and workplace. They are even found in outbuildings and free-standing toilets. And it is not surprising that manufacturers are trying to diversify their range. There are some very interesting options.

There are sockets with lighting - LEDs light up when the plug is connected, and there are also ones with funny faces

With power monitoring functions

When overhauling wiring or when laying new networks, lines are laid according to modern requirements - through circuit breakers, with the installation of RCDs, stabilizers, etc. on the necessary lines. But there are many homes in which the wiring is several decades old. It is quite functional, but the only means of protection and control are a couple of plugs or automatic machines at the entrance to the house/apartment. Safety problems can be solved, at least for the most sensitive and expensive devices, by installing an electrical outlet with voltage control or an RCD.

Electrical socket with built-in RCD. Powerful household appliances must be included in dedicated lines on which there must be circuit breakers and RCDs. If there is nowhere to install them in the panel, you can install an electrical outlet with an RCD. When a leakage current appears in the line or on a connected device (occurs due to an insulation breakdown or if someone touches exposed live wires), the protection will operate and the RCD will turn off the power.

With overvoltage protection. Our networks often experience power surges. If there is no general or local voltage stabilizer, and the equipment connected to the outlet will be sensitive to the quality of the power supply and expensive, you can install an outlet with surge protection. If the threshold voltage is exceeded (different models have different thresholds, but usually it is 275 V), the power is turned off.

Sockets with surge protection relays are a useful feature for sensitive equipment

With increased ease of use

“Advanced” models of electrical outlets provide additional features that can solve many problems.

With timer. Convenient thing. You turn on some device, set the time after which it needs to be turned off and that’s it. At the right moment, a special mechanism will open the contact and the device will turn off.

Electrical sockets with timer - mechanical and electronic

The simplest sockets are with a mechanical timer (pictured above on the left), but there are also electronic ones. And the electronic one can also be programmable, in which you can set a schedule for turning on and off.

With extension. We often encounter the need to use an extension cord. You can use a regular one, but there are sockets with a built-in extension cord. Of course, you need a large cavity in the wall for them, but you will never lose such an extension cord, i.e. the storage problem is solved. When folded, the cord is wound onto a drum hidden in the wall, and the socket is used as usual. You need an extension cord - just pull it, if not - pull it a little towards you and the wire will rewind.

In addition to regular extension cords, there are models with an extension cord and a tee. One socket remains on the wall, two are moved on a cord. It's also a convenient thing.

Childproof

There are two types of childproof electrical outlets. In one, the holes into which the fork is inserted are closed with protective curtains, which are retracted only if pressure is applied to both curtains at the same time. Moreover, you need to press with a certain force, which small child simply unable to develop. An electrical outlet with protective curtains is not much more expensive than a regular one, but is reliable protection against children.

Electrical outlet with child protection - you can use more than just plugs

The second type of child-resistant electrical outlets is with rotating curtains. To insert a plug into such a socket, you need to pry the curtains with the pins of the plug and turn them to a certain angle. Then the holes in which the contacts are located will open.

Design features

Electronics and electronic devices are increasingly becoming part of our everyday lives. About the system " smart home“Everyone has probably heard it already. But here are some electrical outlets that can be controlled from mobile phone Probably few people know. Using a smart socket, you can, for example, remotely turn on and off an electric fireplace in your country house. You can also turn off the iron if you accidentally left it on when leaving home.

There are other, not so exotic models.

WITH USB port(connector). We already have so many electronic devices that need recharging that it is necessary to organize separate socket blocks for them or install USB hubs. Another option is to install an outlet with a USB port/connector or several. In one building there can be from one to four or five.

Combined with a switch. Not only several sockets, but also switches can be installed in one housing. Since the installation height of switches has recently been low - at the level of the lowered hand (85-95 cm from the floor), sockets there are quite appropriate. And through such models you can turn on the lamps. For example, wall sconces or lamps on bedside tables. It will be convenient to turn the lighting on/off, and there will also be somewhere to connect the charger.

With lids. There are also sockets with protective covers. They are often placed outdoors or in a dusty room to prevent dust and dirt from settling on the contacts. Most often they are found with lift-up lids, which are raised when you need to turn on the device - the lid remains raised until you pull out the cord. The lid itself may or may not be transparent.

There are rotary models in which the lid opens to the side, like a door (in the figure above on the right). And it opens only to insert a plug. Then the lid can be closed, since there is a special recess for the cord. Such “draconian” measures are needed for places with very dusty production.

Not only that in different countries Household networks have different voltages, many of them have specially shaped sockets. Before your trip, you need to find out what type of socket is in the country in order to buy the appropriate adapter. Of course, they are there, but in an unfamiliar place they can be difficult to find.

In many European countries, the sockets used are the same as ours, but almost everywhere they are with protective grounding. European standard sockets are used in the following countries:

• Germany;
• Spain;
• Czech Republic;
• Poland;
• Bulgaria;
• Belgium;
• Hungary;
• Lithuania;
• Latvia;
• Slovenia;
• Sweden.

There is no news here: the plug and socket are familiar to us, no adapters are needed. In other European countries, electrical installation products have their own standards. But in stores you can find adapters to the European standard, and in modern buildings two types of sockets are often installed, since appliances with plugs of both types are used.

In some European Union countries, electrical outlets of a different type are installed. Basically, they have three plugs in the plugs, respectively, three holes in the sockets. The plug to which the protective grounding is connected can be of the same shape as the phase ones, or have a different cross-section. In Italy, plugs have three plugs (phase, neutral and ground) - they have the same size and shape and are located in one line close to each other, the “ground” plug is the middle one. This type of sockets and plugs is called type L.

In Switzerland there are also three round plugs, but the middle ground one is located lower and all three contacts form a triangle - this is the N type socket.

The picture is similar in India, but the grounding contact has a larger cross-section and is located slightly lower than in Swiss sockets - the triangle turns out to be an equilateral one (type K).

In the USA, Canada, Philippines, Thailand and Japan, plugs have rectangular pins for phase wires and semicircular ones for connecting protective grounding. They are located at the vertices of the triangle. In the UK, the pins are also rectangular, but they are thicker and have a different orientation in space (type G). Rectangular but thinner pins in Australia, New Zealand and China. The sockets there are the same, type I.

If you are primarily interested in quality, then we advise you to pay attention to the products of leading European brands:

• Legrand (France);
• Schneider-Electric (France);
• Simon (Spain);
• Merten (Germany);
• GIRA (Germany);
• ABB (Germany);
• FEDE (Spain);
• Bticino (Italy);
• JUNG (Germany);
• ELSO (Germany);
• Vimar (Italy).

Particularly popular in Russia are sockets and switches from the French company Legrand, and specifically the Valena series - quality at a reasonable price. Schneider-Electric's popular Grossa and Unica series are popular.

Agree, among the offers of sockets and switches, it is sometimes not easy to decide on a suitable option that will combine high quality products at an affordable price.

To make your choice easier, we will provide a review of popular electrical installation products from manufacturers whose products have won the trust of consumers. In addition, we will tell you what characteristics and parameters need to be taken into account in order to select the optimal sockets and switches for your home.

The installation of high-quality sockets and switches plays an important role in the safety of the technical equipment of an apartment or house. Therefore, the buyer’s attention is primarily focused on products from well-known manufacturers with impressive experience and a well-deserved reputation in the market.

The composition of the top five leading European brands that produce high-quality electrical installation products has not changed over the past ten years. All standard models of the rating leaders are approximately in the same price segment.

If we consider exquisite solutions, for example, from antique brass and bronze, ceramics and glass, then due to the high price they will most likely be inaccessible to the average buyer. But in any case, these top five produce truly high-quality products.

Schneider Electric – expert in energy management

The French company, founded 180 years ago, initially specialized in weapons. Over time, having expanded its specialization, the transnational enterprise began to deal with issues of electrical engineering and telemechanics, mastering more promising markets in the electrical power industry.

Today the company is considered a global expert in energy management.

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