Smart technologies: the new world of sockets
Bright colored outlets not only look good in children's rooms, they can also set new accents in the bedroom. This can be seen in design programs when preparing a design project: you can view a three-dimensional photo of a socket in the bedroom on the wall.
In addition, specific functions can be assigned to colored outlets. For example, you can install multi-colored sockets on the sides of the bed to connect reading lamps, sockets in the bedroom for a TV and for a computer.
Since the socket is used frequently, the feel also plays a decisive role: the surface must be pleasant. Therefore, in addition to ordinary plastic, there are also sockets with glass surfaces, as well as stainless steel or porcelain.
Design options
Let's talk about methods and techniques for the external design of electrical outlets, practiced in the design of modern interiors.
Country
When an apartment or house is created in this “rustic” style, which prefers everything natural, we advise you to buy products with an environmentally friendly outer leather covering. Leather can be either real or artificial.
Minimalism
This interior style can be found quite often in the design of a modern home. Simple rosettes in dark colors are perfect for it: beige, black, gray. The configuration of electrical outlets is square with rounded corners.
This modern style will be decorated with samples with chrome lining or tempered glass, colorless.
Modern
Colorful, geometrically correct products will fit perfectly into the Art Nouveau design. The color range is extensive: yellow, green and red squares, circles and triangles will come in handy in such a home.
It is an American style, which implies large spaces, and is becoming fashionable in large cities of Russia. Electrical sockets in the loft interior must be made of thick opaque glass, similar to an industrial finish. Samples decorated with multi-colored glass and steel will also look very harmonious.
Ethnic
For this “natural” interior trend, the natural occurrence of materials is extremely important, therefore samples of electrical sockets that imitate the following materials will fit best into it:
- dark mahogany;
- light maple wood.
Baroque, Empire, Rococo
Such historical trends imply splendor, wealth, chic shine, and therefore they adore everything spectacular, pompous, beautiful and reminiscent of the decoration of castles. The design of electrical outlets also cannot be behind the overall greatness, therefore in such a case you can use gold-plated samples topped with a pattern, luxurious decor, stones, and rhinestones.
Retro
This interior style presupposes rounded outlines and fairly large sizes, which is why the sockets in this case must be solid in size (rectangular, round or square).
For information on how to properly install sockets in the house, see below.
Practical design of sockets in the bedroom
When planning a bedroom, the emphasis should be not only on the furnishings, but also on how to arrange the sockets in the bedroom. It is necessary not only to avoid annoying cable tangles, but also to create visual calm and a pleasant atmosphere in your bedroom. This is also confirmed by the elegant arrangement of the sockets in the bedroom and the discreet design of the socket, especially since the colors and materials used are perfectly adapted to the interior of the room.
Illuminated sockets not only create a practical power source, but also elegant lighting accents that also provide greater safety at night when searching for the switch.
A massive switch with socket and clearly visible cable routing maintains the industrial look of the room and shows how you can create stylish accents using original sockets.
Glass rosettes very delicately and discreetly fit into the overall picture of a stylish bedroom and give it additional elegance.
Particularly practical: the USB connector integrated into the socket in the bedroom ensures that your smartphone never runs out of charge and is always within reach.
If the outlet is constantly in use
Sockets definitely pose an increased danger to a child. Often this danger is not just high, but deadly. In this case, the following should help:
Plugs. If there are Soviet-style sockets in the room, this is the most convenient way to ensure the safety of a child from contact with electricity. A special key is almost always sold complete with plugs. The mechanism of operation of such a device is very simple: a rubber or plastic plug is inserted into the socket. That's it - it will be simply impossible to pull it out with your hands. In order to remove it, you need to use the key provided with the plug. There are also keyless plugs on sale, but there is always the possibility that a child will remove it from the socket - not the best way to protect your child.
Related links: Should you choose white as the main color for decorating your bedroom?
- Special protective curtains on the socket. Sockets with such a mechanism are different, but the general principle of their operation is the same - you can insert something into them only by pressing two input sockets at once. This eliminates the possibility that any foreign objects can get into the outlet.
- Rotating mechanism on the socket. Each socket with such a mechanism has a special disk. When it becomes necessary to use a socket, a plug is inserted into this disk. Then it needs to be rotated. This way, the holes on the disk will be above the holes in the socket, and you can easily insert the plug. When the plug is removed, the disk returns to its original state and blocks the socket from the child.
Socket as a night light
Outlets today offer possibilities beyond a pure power source. There are hidden sockets that are equipped with LED lighting, so that the socket is visible even at night.
Sockets with LED lighting, such as a USB charging station or Internet connection, are available as conventional flush-mounted solutions.
Socket as USB charging station
There is also a smart solution for many power-hungry mobile devices such as cell phones, MP3 players or tablets: instead of the classic socket, the USB charging station can be installed as a flush-mounted unit.
The built-in power supply allows you to charge multiple mobile devices in one place.
Internet via Wi-Fi socket
Smart technology turns even a power outlet into an Internet connection if the wireless LAN range is limited by steel beams, walls, ceilings or other electrical devices in the house. A network connection can be established as a hidden solution via a Wi-Fi socket.
Data is transmitted over a regular electrical network, so there is no need to install new cables. Security is also ensured: data transmission can be securely encrypted using special software.
How many sockets should there be in the kitchen?
The kitchen is the room containing the largest number of household appliances in an apartment or house. Some appliances are always plugged in, while others are turned on as needed, and all of these appliances require outlets.
According to the current set of rules, the installation of sockets in apartment kitchens should not be less than 4 pieces plus a separate line for an electric stove. But in real life, the number of sockets in the kitchen is required much more. And so let's start counting.
The first power outlet is needed to connect the hob. This outlet is designed for a current of 32 A, since the hob is powered by a separate line with a current significantly higher than the household standard.
The second socket is for connecting the oven. It, as in the case of the hob, should provide increased safety under heavy electrical loads.
The third outlet provides electricity to the refrigerator. This device is necessary for storing food products that require low temperatures.
And its presence in the kitchen is no less important than previous electrical appliances
The fourth outlet provides power to the dishwasher. This technique has become a part of our lives and has taken its place in the kitchen. Why bother with dirty dishes when you can install a dishwasher?
The fifth socket is for the hood. Often, to connect an exhaust device, instead of a socket, only the cable outlet for direct installation to the network is left. This is due to the fact that budget hoods are not equipped with electrical plugs (to reduce the price). But if the hood is expensive, then it is more correct to connect it through a socket - dismantling the electrical plug entails the removal of the warranty on the product.
The sixth socket is necessary for the operation of the microwave oven. Almost every family uses this device to heat or prepare various dishes. A separate socket for a built-in microwave is especially necessary.
The seventh socket is designed to connect LED lighting for the kitchen work area. It is very convenient when such lamps have touch activation. As a rule, the connection to the network is made on a permanent basis through a single socket.
The eighth socket is for a food waste shredder. This is a modern device built into the drainage system under the sink. It is designed to make the work of the kitchen owner easier and its widespread use is only a matter of time. And it is better to design its connection in advance, since when carrying out major repairs you need to focus on modern equipment.
The ninth outlet is an electric kettle. Modern repairs require constant connection of such a device.
In addition to connecting these nine basic kitchen appliances, it is also possible to use a food processor, coffee maker or toaster. And each of them requires its own separate outlet. We will leave the counting of sockets for such devices to your personal preference, but we will limit ourselves to only the listed nine sockets.
But in addition to such stationary devices, they use equipment that does not have its own permanent place. These are kitchen appliances such as a mixer, blender, electric meat grinder, as well as chargers.
To power additional appliances, it is necessary to install sockets above the working surface of the kitchen furniture in a minimum quantity of 2 pieces. And 2 sockets in close proximity to the dining table.
It is possible to increase the sockets on the apron of the kitchen unit or in the window slopes when using a window sill to install electrical appliances. We can also install an outlet in the lower part of the room to connect a vacuum cleaner. The feasibility of placing additional sockets should be determined by the owner of the kitchen space.
Very often a TV is installed in the kitchen, and this is another electrical outlet, a TV outlet and an outlet with an Internet signal.
Now let's see what we got in the end. The total number of 220V sockets is 14, of which one is power for cooking, another one each for connecting to the Internet and an antenna. By the way, according to SP 31-110-2003, a double socket installed in the kitchen will be considered as two separate sockets.
Socket for work in the bedroom
Are you planning a work area in your bedroom? Do you need a table, nightstand or even two? If you want to integrate a desk or work area into your bedroom, you need to make sure there are enough outlets.
A desk with built-in socket, a reading light right above the head of the bed or a practical power connection right in the center of the room: new socket designs combine universal practical functions and make endless cable clutter a thing of the past.
Our goal is comfort in everyday life
When deciding on the number of sockets, it is best to start from the arrangement of furniture
, because it follows from the location of electrical appliances (TVs, computers, etc.) in the apartment.
If your imagination allows you, then it’s better to even imagine all the main scenarios that will be implemented by you and the people living with you in the same apartment
. You should be comfortable using electrical appliances in everyday life. You don't have to look for an outlet, it should be near you. At the same time, there should be enough sockets so that you do not have to waste time turning off other devices.
Do you live alone or do you have a large family? Imagine how your day and the day of your loved ones goes in this apartment, taking into account the expected arrangement of furniture.
Let's look at several situations
A workaholic's apartment, or life outside the home
For example, you are young, studying or building a career, you live alone, you get up in the morning, prepare a quick breakfast in the kitchen, make coffee, go to school or work. In the evening, you return home, have dinner, watch movies on your laptop, charge your phone, turn on the night light and fall asleep. You spend almost all your time outside the home. In this case, your choice is a minimum of furniture and a minimum of sockets.
In home office mode
Let's say you are a freelance designer and work from home. Or you love computer games with complex graphics that require a powerful computer. Or maybe you study or work as a teacher. Then you need to take care of a full-fledged workplace with a desktop computer and other office equipment, providing the required number of sockets near the desk.
Undersea world
Windows facing south
The apartment windows face south, but you can’t stand the heat well? Then you need to provide an outlet for the air conditioner, and it is better that this outlet is located at the top of the air conditioner unit so that the wire does not hang down the wall.
Hot water all year round
In the summer, hot water is turned off in many apartment buildings. Will you be providing a boiler? If so, it will also need to be powered somehow.
Let's get used to living in comfort!
Socket: electrical installation update
Outlets in the home serve an important function when it comes to connecting and turning on electrical devices such as lamps. For this reason, it is important that residents generally assume that switches and outlets are functional. Therefore, it is important to update these technical means at intervals of 10 to 20 years.
If the switch, receptacle and other electrical systems are not regularly repaired, safety issues can arise and, in the worst case scenario, even fire damage to components or parts.
Design options
Let's talk about methods and techniques for the external design of electrical outlets, practiced in the design of modern interiors.
Country
When an apartment or house is created in this “rustic” style, which prefers everything natural, we advise you to buy products with an environmentally friendly outer leather covering. Leather can be either real or artificial.
Minimalism
This interior style can be found quite often in the design of a modern home. Simple rosettes in dark colors are perfect for it: beige, black, gray. The configuration of electrical outlets is square with rounded corners.
This modern style will be decorated with samples with chrome lining or tempered glass, colorless.
Modern
Colorful, geometrically correct products will fit perfectly into the Art Nouveau design. The color range is extensive: yellow, green and red squares, circles and triangles will come in handy in such a home.
Loft
It is an American style, which implies large spaces, and is becoming fashionable in large cities of Russia. Electrical sockets in the loft interior must be made of thick opaque glass, similar to an industrial finish. Samples decorated with multi-colored glass and steel will also look very harmonious.
Ethnic
For this “natural” interior trend, the natural occurrence of materials is extremely important, therefore samples of electrical sockets that imitate the following materials will fit best into it:
- dark mahogany;
- light maple wood.
Along with this, the ethnic direction involves a variety of paintings and patterns, therefore, electrical outlets in an ethnic interior can be decorated with a similar design, including ceramic models and wood samples.
Baroque, Empire, Rococo
Such historical trends imply splendor, wealth, chic shine, and therefore they adore everything spectacular, pompous, beautiful and reminiscent of the decoration of castles. The design of electrical outlets also cannot be behind the overall greatness, therefore in such a case you can use gold-plated samples topped with a pattern, luxurious decor, stones, and rhinestones.
Retro
This interior style presupposes rounded outlines and fairly large sizes, which is why the sockets in this case must be solid in size (rectangular, round or square).
For information on how to properly install sockets in the house, see below.
Sockets: repairs are possible without much effort
Many homeowners shy away from repairing bedroom outlets and switches as part of the electrical system because it involves extensive construction work. In many cases, it is completely unnecessary to open all the walls.
As an alternative, for example, skirting boards and ceiling profiles are available into which ready-made installations can be installed. In this way, construction measures can be significantly reduced, which is also interesting from a cost point of view.
Location of sockets
The height of sockets in the bedroom and the position are usually well thought out. Standards and regulations ensure that most electrical connection options can always be found in the same place.
If you are looking to upgrade or expand your existing installation yourself, you should know as much as possible about these standards and regulations so that you know at what height bedroom sockets can be installed.
Abroad, the height of sockets for a TV in the bedroom, for lighting a workplace, for an iron is 140 cm from the floor. Bedside sockets in the bedroom are located at a height of 60 cm, and sockets above the bedside table in the bedroom are located at a height of 15 cm from the height of the bedside table.
It is necessary to pay attention to the sockets for the TV in the bedroom: their height may depend on the wishes of the client, on the location of the TV, on the height of the bed on which they will watch TV. Therefore, the height can be from 130 to 140 cm.
Before the bed is in the bedroom, check where the outlets are located. Particularly in older buildings, an electrician may have to be called in again to install additional sockets, so it's important to know at what height to install sockets in the bedroom. The bed and closet should not directly cover the sockets.
Installation height of switches and sockets
There are no strict rules and regulations on how to arrange sockets and switches when renovating or constructing houses and apartments. In document SP31 for 2003 alone, it is recommended that switches be installed from the door handle within one meter from the floor, and sockets are also recommended to be installed at the same distance anywhere.
Recommended installation height of sockets, switches, distribution boxes from the floor
The PUE also does not have strict standards, there are only recommendations. According to it, switches can be installed from door handles to one meter from the floor. In damp rooms such as a bathroom, sockets are located no closer than 0.6 meters from the bathtub and must be protected by an RCD or isolation transformer.
The leakage current of the RCD is not higher than 30 mA. It is also recommended to install sockets and switches no closer than 0.6 meters from the shower doors. According to the new “European standard,” the height of sockets from the floor is set at 0.3 meters, and the height of switches at 0.9 meters. In reality, there is no such set of rules as the “European standard”.
This name came along with the word “European-quality renovation”. In Soviet times, the location of sockets and switches was 90 cm and 160 cm, respectively. These two options have their advantages. The old method of setting the height of sockets and switches is considered by many to be convenient, since the switch is not covered by furniture, and young children cannot reach it.
Recommended height for installing electrical wiring elements in the hallway
The “European standard” option also has its advantages. The switch, located at a height of 90 cm, is easy to reach by hand without lifting it, but the low location of the sockets can become a toy for children. They must be covered with a protective cover.
Recommended installation height for sockets in the living room
Low-mounted sockets are convenient when the plugs of electrical appliances do not need to be pulled out often, and low sockets are also hidden from view. For the old Soviet version of the location of sockets, it is good to plug in electrical appliances that require frequent switching on, without bending over.
Recommended installation height for sockets and switches in the bathroom
To conveniently arrange sockets and switches, you first need to arrange furniture and electrical appliances, determine the location of double and triple sockets, and take into account the age of the children. The diagram can be drawn up on paper to scale. You also need to provide telephone, TV and Internet sockets.
Recommended installation height of sockets for electrical appliances in the kitchen
Sockets should not be covered by furniture, they should have easy access and, if possible, they should be hidden from view. You may have two options for the height of the sockets from the floor. Some sockets are at a height of 0.3 meters from the floor, and others are 90 cm. The location of sockets in the kitchen should be convenient for you.
Sockets above the desktop are placed 15–20 cm above the table surface. Also, sockets and switches are not installed closer than 50 cm from the gas pipeline. Sockets and switches are installed taking into account convenient use for all family members.
Outlet: Comfort is also important
In addition to safety issues, comfort issues also play a role. For example, you need to check whether there are a sufficiently large number of sockets in the bedroom. Sockets can only be used comfortably if there are enough connection options for each situation.
It is recommended to use several sockets in the bedroom. The bedroom should have outlets with four or six connections, as long as there are connections for lights, telephone, computer, music system and TV. This eliminates the need to frequently connect devices.
It is important to remember that sockets in the bedroom near the bed should be located at least 30 cm from the pillow.
Placement methods
It is very difficult, if not impossible, to draw up a diagram of a universal arrangement of points, in which it will be possible to rearrange furniture and change the decor in the bedroom without compromising comfort. This means that we must act according to the situation.
Electrical socket at the bedside table
The purpose of the “point” near the bedside table is obvious - connecting a small lamp or sconce used as a night light.
A third “point” would also be useful - for a laptop computer, electronic watch or similar electronic device powered by a 220 V power supply. Of course, for a double bed, everything mentioned is doubled.
TV sockets
TV in the bedroom today is a very common phenomenon. Only one of them functions very rarely - the number of on-air channels and the poverty of their programs do not satisfy all the requirements, even in large cities. Basically, the TV functions as a monitor connected to a digital or satellite TV tuner, as well as for viewing software products via the Internet. You also need to install and connect the socket for the TV antenna.
Consequently, the number of sockets for a television zone is rarely limited to one. As a rule, 2 “points” are mounted (TV + TV tuner), but this is not an ideal solution. Much more often, a full-fledged “node” of 4-5 sockets is installed in the bedroom, making it possible to connect not only a TV, but also video and audio equipment without worries.
Workplace
In small apartments, where the vast majority of our fellow citizens live, it is practically impossible to create an individual office for work, which is why the workplace in almost every family is located in the bedroom. And the first thing you need to do here is to power the computer. If you have a laptop, one socket is enough. And if it’s a stationary personal computer, then the smallest thing is 2 sockets for the system unit and monitor, as well as one more for speakers. Also, don’t forget about a Wi-Fi router and a table lamp. In general, you will need 3-4 pieces.
General purpose sockets
The need for an electrical outlet near the entrance door to the sleeping area is not very clear, however, time has shown that its purpose is to connect high-power household electrical appliances such as a heater or vacuum cleaner.
Moreover, in spacious rooms it is necessary to have 2 similar sockets located in diagonally opposite corners of the room. It’s also a good idea to take into account a third “powerful” electrical outlet near the window - if necessary, you can connect a mobile air conditioner or heater to it in case of frost.
Socket at the dressing table
An outlet next to the dressing table is needed to connect a hair dryer and other electrical appliances that any woman needs. The matter practically does not end with one socket - as a rule, a block of 2-4 devices is installed. They are mounted a few centimeters above the table top.
At the doorway
A power point near the door is required to turn on the vacuum cleaner. According to European standards, it should be 30 cm from the floor so that water and detergents do not get into it during cleaning, and the cord of an electrical appliance does not hang down the wall.
It would be a good idea to provide an outlet for a vacuum cleaner next to the switch located at the door of the bedroom.
For other devices
This category includes a vacuum cleaner or heater that is used with low frequency or for a certain period. Often, sockets for these devices are placed near the door in an accessible place. Some experts recommend using multiple general-purpose outlets. It is advisable to place them at opposite ends of the bedroom to optimize their use
Please note that this approach is not at all necessary for small rooms, where one outlet can be used for various tasks
One small nuance should also be noted. If you are planning to install an air conditioner in the bedroom, then you should first prepare an outlet for it. It should be located near the place where the structure is attached. At the same time, the product must withstand a large electrical load, since almost all air conditioners are very powerful.
Electrical emissions from outlets
People react differently to electromagnetic radiation. Women, in particular, seem to be more "electro-sensitive". That's why many are calling for lower limits, especially for bedrooms. The fact is that radios, cell phones, telephones, televisions, routers, computers, outlets, extension cables and even hidden power lines generate radiation. The fewer devices and cables in the bedroom, the more beneficial it is for healthy sleep.
When our body recovers during sleep, we draw new strength from rest. Therefore, in the bedroom it is important to avoid anything that can disturb your night's sleep. In particular, electricity planning plays a role that cannot be underestimated.
Electrical radiation and electromagnetic fields can interfere with our sleep. This applies to everything near the bed: less is more. But most buyers don't ban TVs and computers in the bedroom. If possible, avoid sockets and cables near the bed.
Design options
Let's talk about methods and techniques for the external design of electrical outlets, practiced in the design of modern interiors.
Country
When an apartment or house is created in this “rustic” style, which prefers everything natural, we advise you to buy products with an environmentally friendly outer leather covering. Leather can be either real or artificial.
Minimalism
This interior style can be found quite often in the design of a modern home. Simple rosettes in dark colors are perfect for it: beige, black, gray. The configuration of electrical outlets is square with rounded corners.
Modern
Colorful, geometrically correct products will fit perfectly into the Art Nouveau design. The color range is extensive: yellow, green and red squares, circles and triangles will come in handy in such a home.
Loft
It is an American style, which implies large spaces, and is becoming fashionable in large cities of Russia. Electrical sockets in the loft interior must be made of thick opaque glass, similar to an industrial finish. Samples decorated with multi-colored glass and steel will also look very harmonious.
Ethnic
For this “natural” interior trend, the natural occurrence of materials is extremely important, therefore samples of electrical sockets that imitate the following materials will fit best into it:
- dark mahogany;
- light maple wood.
Along with this, the ethnic direction involves a variety of paintings and patterns, therefore, electrical outlets in an ethnic interior can be decorated with a similar design, including ceramic models and wood samples.
Baroque, Empire, Rococo
Such historical trends imply splendor, wealth, chic shine, and therefore they adore everything spectacular, pompous, beautiful and reminiscent of the decoration of castles. The design of electrical outlets also cannot be behind the overall greatness, therefore in such a case you can use gold-plated samples topped with a pattern, luxurious decor, stones, and rhinestones.
Retro
This interior style presupposes rounded outlines and fairly large sizes, which is why the sockets in this case must be solid in size (rectangular, round or square).
For information on how to properly install sockets in the house, see below.
TV sockets
Many people prefer to turn on the TV before going to bed to watch the news, a movie, or a program. Moreover, the TV is often used as a monitor that receives signals from a digital or satellite television tuner, DVD recorder or player, VCR (if there is one) and other video equipment. To power them, an additional source is needed, but a “block” of several outlets is better.
The most convenient and practical position of sockets in the bedroom
First, a “permanent” connection is thought out - where and how devices that are rarely disconnected from the network will be placed: table lamps, dressing table lighting, TV, computer and similar equipment. Each of these devices has a separate outlet that can be hidden.
Then comes planning for a “temporary” connection - mobile phones, laptop, hair dryer, iron, etc. Sockets are designed for them in places of most frequent use. These connectors should be at a level convenient for the owners.
The last stage is combining the results of the previous two. Using the bedside space as an example, it looks something like this:
- The bedside table on which the floor lamp stands may hide the socket intended for it.
- The owner likes to “sit” online without getting out from under the blanket, which means there should be a connection point for the charger at the head of the bed. You can't hide it behind furniture.
- Result: you need a double outlet with easy access. It is placed either above the tabletop of a bedside table standing close to the bed, or at a comfortable level in the space between the spaced furniture.
Measures against electrical radiation in the bedroom
If you want to completely disconnect your bedroom from the power supply at night, you can easily do this by installing a mains disconnect switch. It interrupts the mains voltage at the fuse box until electricity is required.
As soon as the consumer is turned on again, the supply voltage is automatically switched back to the line without delay. In everyday life, these network outages are not noticeable.
Bedside table: how to choose the size
A piece of furniture should not only please you, but also look harmonious in the overall interior of the room
Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to the dimensions. At the moment, most furniture stores and manufacturers offer the following standard dimensions for this piece of furniture:
- depth - from 40 to 45 centimeters;
- width – from 50 to 55 cm;
- The height of the bedside table is from 50 to 65 centimeters.
Cabinets of the above sizes are widely available in modern furniture stores. You can also order furniture according to individual sizes, depending on your preferences and the dimensions of the bed. But, this option, as a rule, costs much more than standard models.
When choosing, be sure to take into account the height of the bed: an incorrectly selected bedside table can completely ruin the overall impression of the room’s interior. If the bedside table is too wide, it will make the space look bulky.
