Therefore, when buying new sockets and switches, you can and should choose those that already today have several characteristic differences from previous traditional ones.
This, of course, does not mean that old sockets are bad, however, the engineering thought of manufacturers does not stand still and you need to use all the advantages of innovation in your apartment. Let's compare how modern sockets and switches differ from previous budget models.
Caliper
The new sockets are made of two layers:
- base – galvanized steel
- cover - polycarbonate
What benefits does this provide? Polycarbonate provides additional electrical safety.
Even if somehow a phase from the wiring breaks through to the socket body, the front part of the caliper will be reliably insulated. And touching it with your fingers will not give you an electric shock.
But often, many electricians unscrew and disassemble sockets to find a fault, without even removing the voltage from it. This function will greatly protect you from accidental electric shocks.
And the presence of two layers allows you to increase the strength of the entire structure by about 50% compared to a traditional galvanized steel caliper.
Selection by installation type
The most acceptable option for the best household outlet for an apartment is a built-in one. These sockets are designed in such a way that the electrical part is recessed into the wall. This structure allows you to save space, but it is advisable to choose the installation location in advance, even at the time of installation of the wiring. This is due to the fact that such devices are used together with wiring laid inside the wall. Such connections are the safest and highest quality during operation.
Surface-mounted sockets are screwed onto the surface - this is a good option when using open wiring on top of the wall. They are more often used as a temporary device and are somewhat inferior in safety.
Panel
The front panel is secured with latches. To dismantle and install it back, it takes no more than 3 seconds.
Just pry it from the side with a screwdriver and pull it out with your fingers.
There is even a marking in which places you need to pry with a screwdriver.
Put it in place in the same way, pressing and snapping it into place at the fastening points.
However, if you come across a fake whose plastic elasticity deteriorates over time, these latches can turn from a plus into a minus.
After a couple of years, when dismantling, you may forget how they initially snapped into place and accidentally break them.
Traditional bezel mounting requires longer dismantling. You will have to unscrew the mounting screw, and maybe even more than one.
And if you perform such an operation quite often, then it is quite possible to ruin the thread. After which, you will have to replace not the socket, but the entire socket.
If you plan to use sockets and switches even at the finishing stage, then it is better to choose mechanisms with protective covers.
Firstly, they protect the products during transportation. And secondly, they allow you to paint walls and hang wallpaper even without dismantling the front panels.
Where to choose
The variety of products on the market solves the main consumer question - how to choose an outlet that suits all the above parameters. True, which company’s products will be best for him, the buyer will still have to decide on his own, depending on the required characteristics and the proposed cost.
The only thing that should be taken into account when choosing a foreign manufacturer is the possibility of the existence of counterfeit goods on the market, whose quality suffers. The filling of such products does not correspond to the original description that is offered. Most often they save on materials, metal and plastic parts, which break down much faster and are practically irreparable. If you come across supposedly high-quality products, but at a price significantly different from the average on the market, then this is a reason to think about it.
As a result, the choice often comes down to the amount you plan to spend. If this issue is not considered, then you can simply focus on choosing the design of the sockets, since the filling from TOP manufacturers is unlikely to be of poor quality.
Overlay frame
Frames in good sockets are attached independently of the front panels. This allows you to freely dismantle and install them.
In older series, the frame is secured and tightened by the front panel. Therefore, in them, replacing the frame with another of the same type, but of a different color, occurs only simultaneously with the panel.
In this case, it will be better if such products are two-layer.
- outside – ABS plastic
- reverse inner side - reliable polycarbonate
Inside the panel there are latches, due to which the fixation on the mechanism occurs. Please note that they may have several marks.
This will make it easy to align the frames in case of slight unevenness in the walls.
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:
- The base is made of ceramic or plastic. Contacts are secured using metal plates.
- An additional function of the plates is as a place for screw fastening of cables.
- Popular models with a grounding function are available. They are equipped with an additional contact or plate.
- 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.
Internal insulation
A high-quality socket, even with the front panel removed, ensures complete electrical safety.
All internal current-carrying parts are securely closed and insulated. There is no access to them.
In sockets of the budget series, there are always clearly open live parts.
And if you work with a screwdriver that does not have an insulated tip, then you may well either get energized or accidentally overlap the phase and the grounded body with the tip itself.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Curtains
In accordance with safety regulations, all sockets installed in living rooms must have protective curtains. How do good sockets differ in this regard from cheaper ones?
In budget products, the curtain mechanism is fixed directly to the back of the front panel.
Very often, the following problem arises due to such curtains. There are combination type forks. That is, part of the fork legs are insulated with plastic, and the ends themselves are metal.
Most often, such plugs are used in various types of chargers. Their metal ends are slightly thicker than the middle part of the contact legs.
This plug plugs into a regular outlet without any problems. But when you try to remove it and pull it out, the protective curtains bite the contacts like a guillotine.
Biting occurs precisely at the boundary of the plastic-metal transition of materials. As a result, the plug gets stuck in the socket.
And to pull it out you have to put in extra effort. Often this all ends with a break in the protective curtains.
In a good modern socket, the shutter mechanism is recessed deep into the body, and not located on the back side.
Accordingly, such a problem as biting the fork simply does not exist. Any fork goes in and out of it very smoothly.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- With backlight. Very comfortable models. A tiny burning light bulb will help you navigate in pitch darkness.
- 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.
Fastening
Sockets are fastened in both traditional and new models either with screws located in the socket box or with clamps. When tightened, the grips dig into the walls of the socket box.
However, the design of the improved models has its own peculiarities. The so-called “double tooth” technology is used here.
It allows you to increase the tearing force by about one and a half times.
Another difference between a high-quality socket is the presence of a special profile, the so-called “dovetail”. It makes it very easy to install sockets and switches in blocks.
If you need to connect two or more mechanisms under one frame, according to the Pocket Electric level, you set the very first one perfectly exactly, and mount the second and subsequent ones using a dovetail.
As a result, all mechanisms will be quickly and smoothly installed in their seats.
How to choose the best quality and most reliable sockets for the Internet
The correct choice of such an outlet is made based on the type of cable that the provider uses. Twisted pair is determined by the transmission speed and the best choice of a special device for connection would be products of categories 5 and 6, for example, RJ-45. If the supermarket does not have a consultant for this category, or is poorly informed about the type of product for Internet connection, it is better to consult with a person who is involved in this area.
Screw or screwless contacts
Modern and most old models also differ in the technology for connecting conductors. The newest sockets have screwless terminals that allow you to very quickly both connect and disconnect cables or wires.
There are still heated debates among electricians about which contacts are more reliable. Supposedly screwless, they reduce the area of contact with the wire.
This reduces current-carrying capacity and reliability. However, such a dispute is reminiscent of the age-old question, which is better: Wago or twist?
Here a lot depends on the quality of execution and operating conditions. There are sockets where a fairly powerful spring exerts pressure on just one point - for example, from manufacturers Gira, Legrand, Schneider.
But ABB has a spring with less elasticity, but it presses at two points simultaneously.
Use all products according to standards and recommendations and problems will never arise. For example, in some European countries, at the legislative level, the use of screw terminals has been prohibited since the 60s.
The main advantage of screwless terminals is that such connection does not require further maintenance. As the manufacturer assures, after installation, subject to rated loads, you will not look into such an outlet again for many decades.
All older sockets use screw technology. The stripped wire strands are clamped with traditional screws.
Moreover, the clamping force is also normalized. Professional installers use special torque screwdrivers for this.
Such contacts are much more labor intensive during installation and disassembly. In addition, it is advisable to periodically tighten these clamps, that is, maintain them. And this entails dismantling almost half of the structure of the entire outlet.
Wires pressed with a screw during temperature fluctuations - heating at maximum load and cooling when it is turned off - can shrink. And accordingly, the contact will weaken over time.
In high-quality sockets, the conductors in screwless contacts are in a constant state of tension, no matter how hot or cold.
In addition, they have a limiter template on the reverse side, which shows how accurately in millimeters the insulation needs to be removed from the core.
TOP popular brands: what to take
Recommendations from professionals involved in the installation of electrical wiring of equipment from Legrand, SchneiderElectric, Polo, ABB, Jung are excellent, and preference is given in the listed order. Legrand received the largest number of positive reviews: buyers note the original design, quality of materials, multifunctionality of the device and long, trouble-free operation.
Optimal wiring directions
The presence of separate directions will help to simplify the process of monitoring the operation of the electrical network. With such a separation, there is always the possibility of turning off one and allowing the others to work.
In practice, the most common is considered to be four directions:
- Basic equipment;
- Sanitary unit;
- Kitchen space;
- Lighting systems.
If the system is old, then, for example, a separate cable is laid for washing equipment.
The listed directions have their own characteristics, which should be taken into account when wiring. Work in the kitchen and bathroom is carried out according to certain rules. It is best to study in more detail the arrangement for all lines separately, then the wiring will be done correctly.
Forbidden places
Any place where sockets are located must be accessible so that in the event of an emergency it is possible to immediately disconnect devices from the network. You should not install sockets behind built-in appliances or inside the lower tier.
It is unacceptable to place them behind cabinets with drawers or with closers.
Installing electrical sockets above the stove or hob is also unacceptable - due to warm air, the cable insulation may simply crumble. There must be a safe distance from appliances to sockets. Also, they cannot be installed above or below the sink.
By following our recommendations and safety precautions, you will carry out quality repairs and avoid many mistakes.
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.
Purpose of the circuit
Having knowledge and skills at a professional level is a prerequisite for performing modern wiring according to the socket diagram in the apartment. Carrying out work in a new building will require drawing up a drawing.
It should include the main electrical facilities:
- Switches and sockets;
- Types of lighting devices;
- Electrical panel with a built-in device for protective shutdown.
The scheme should reflect the wishes of the owners with the individual characteristics of the housing. In this case, the cable is divided into separate functioning lines. To do this, it is necessary to distribute the load elements correctly, taking into account protection and wiring control.
