Choice of sockets and switches. What sockets and switches are better to put in the apartment. Various colors and shades

Doing repairs? Equip new apartment? Sooner or later you will face the issue of installing sockets and switches. It is important to purchase only the best products that will not provoke any problems.

In this article, we will tell you which sockets and switches are better to buy for an apartment, what are their pros and cons, and how to identify a fake.

	A photo	Name	Rating	Price
#1			⭐ 98 / 100
#2			⭐ 97 / 100
#3			⭐ 96 / 100
#4			⭐ 94 / 100
#5			⭐ 93 / 100
#6			⭐ 92 / 100
#7			⭐ 91 / 100

Top Models

Our list of the best sockets and switches includes five of the best models from different manufacturers, each of which guarantees the high quality of their products.

No. 7. BYLECTRICA Praleska RA16-265

Belarusian sockets and switches are truly unique in comparison with others. And Bylectrica, which is produced in Minsk Svetopribor, stands out especially strongly among the unique ones. In general, the brand is not bad if you need to plug in something that is not too powerful, for example, the same TV.

If you have something powerful or the lights go out often, it's better to be careful, because there is almost no protection. One spark and goodbye socket, as they say.

This happens with many Belarusian goods, but if you compare Belarus and China or Turkey, it is better to choose what is closer.

1. Adequate price.
2. Good quality for budget level.

1. With a "not thick" design.
2. Bad contacts.

No. 6. Kuntsevo-Electro Optima RA16-376

This model is a relic of the Soviet era, which, interestingly, can still be found today. It looks inexpensive, it also costs, everything is done quite well and works well. If the socket is used a little, then it is quite good for itself and, moreover, budgetary.

However, a screw for a flat spitz in 2019 is already the height of impudence, as they say. The good thing is that few people complain about them.

1. Small price.
2. Pretty good quality.

1. The design is generally bad.

No. 5. Viko Carmen 90561042

Turkish Viko sockets should be treated with caution, which arises from the products of another Turkish company, Makel. Nevertheless, it is worth noting the high build quality of Viko sockets, because today this company is considered the largest in the Turkish market.

In Russia, this company is also present. By the standards of the Russian Federation, the company passed all quality standards with dignity, because the products of this company can be found almost everywhere.

In general, Viko - good producer with solid high-quality sockets when positioning itself as a representative of the budget segment.

However, you should immediately understand one thing - since the prices for Viko sockets and the prices for junior models of ABB's premium segment representative are similar, it is better to choose the latter.

1. High quality.
2. Adequate price.
3. Nice design.

1. For heavy loads, this outlet is not suitable.
2. The prices are similar to the junior models of the middle and premium segment.

No. 4. Berker 47432089

The German company Berker, known not only within the country, but also abroad, today can first of all surprise with the build quality and durability of sockets and switches, which is really high.

The second thing that can hook the products of this brand is classic style design that can be combined with any interior in an apartment or house, which is quite convenient. In addition, the use of anodized aluminum is quite a winning solution.

Today, the most popular series are S.1, which is classic in terms of its functionality, B.3, which is more daring in terms of appearance, and B.7, which introduces elements of stainless steel and glass, as well as space for five mechanisms, each of which will be different from the others.

Quality and reliability are the reasons why Berker is responsible for the implementation of the project " smart House» concern Hager.

1. High build quality - Germany.
2. Classic style.
3. Solid selection of frames.
4. quality mechanisms.
5. Strength.
6. Reliability.
7. Low price.

1. Few bright in terms of design models.

No. 3. LEGRAND Valena

The third place on our list is occupied by a model from the famous French company LEGRAND - Valena, which is quite interesting. At the same time, this company is compared with the same ABB, and not in favor of the first. The same company is also compared with another, but already related by country of origin, firm - Schneider Electric.

They are both generally similar - they are from France, both appeared after World War II, both appeared in the USSR. The only difference is that Legrand caught on to Russia before they opened a plant in Ulyanovsk.

This company has been present for a long time Russian market, which means it can offer a very rich assortment of various sockets. We will consider only a few series of this brand.

1. Recessed front panel for easy cleaning.
2. Easy installation and robust polycarbonate housing.
3. Galea Life. It stands out using only natural materials.

In general, choose to your taste - but remember that the price of such sockets and switches is not too budgetary.

1. Consistently high quality.
2. Non-standard technical solutions.
3. Rich assortment.

1. High price, somewhere - even too much.

Reviews and prices for LEGRAND Valena

No. 2. Schneider MGU5.201.30NZD Unica

Sockets and switches of this company are a silver medalist in the issue of the quality of future sockets. If we compare Schneider and ABB, it turns out that the former is even older. She managed to participate in the old expeditions as a weapon. Even the Russians even had weapons manufactured by this company.

After the Second World War, the company began to deal not with weapons, but with other things. Now they are known, as you understand, for their switches and switches. Interestingly, this firm has a capacity in Russia, located in the Urals.

There is something to offer a potential buyer - there is an assortment of the company. Site site experts advise you to take a look at the Unica series, as well as its analogue - Unica NEW. Both versions have the most different design, reliable contacts and good protective shutters, modular USB sockets.

Some models have a little trouble with the design, but the outlet will pay back with really high quality for a boring look.

1. Wide range of models.
2. You can find budget models in relation to the premium segment.
3. Good quality.

1. Weak sockets and switches related to the budget segment.

No. 1. ABB Basic 55

The gold of our rating will go to ABB products, which in Russia have long been called the "workhorse" - and this is not just. So we have long called it for its high quality, reliability and durability, which has become calling card this model. And she also has inexpensive sockets - how can one refuse such a high-quality and affordable product?

A bit of history - ABB appeared a very long time ago, back in Soviet times, but before ABB there was ASEA, traces of which could be found, surprisingly, already in Russian Empire. What is more interesting is the presence of two engineering bureaus in the Russian Empire, namely in Nizhny Novgorod and Yekaterinburg. After the disappearance of ASEA and the emergence of ABB, the company began working with the Soviet consumer, and very successfully. When the company merged with the Swiss Brown, Boveri & Cie, ABB had as many as seven production sites, which allows it to freely spread throughout the territory. Russian Federation and sell sockets and switches on a large scale.

Site site experts suggest paying attention to the Zenit series, which has several notable features:

• stainless steel frame natural stone, natural wood or tempered glass;
• perfect work of mechanics;
• high price.

More budget lines are Basic 55 and Cosmo, which can also satisfy the needs of most potential buyers.

1. High quality and incredible durability.
2. Wide range of models.
3. The modularity of the rulers, which allows you to quickly and easily assemble everything you need yourself.

1. Weak in design.

What sockets and switches should be installed in the apartment

As a rule, almost all sockets can be installed in an apartment, no matter what they will be - simple room switches and sockets, which are enough for not too heavy loads, or special ones, with cool protection and accessories and no less steep price, which is explained by high product quality.

On a note! The only thing that should be taken into account at 100% is the presence of small children. With them, the moment of working with the outlet becomes quite difficult, as they strive to put their fingers inside. In this case, we advise you to install simple options, and more complex ones with curtains, plugs or locking with a key. So you can protect them from a possible electric shock.

You can put any sockets and switches in the room, with the exception of sockets for the stove, which can only be in the kitchen.

What sockets and switches to put in the bathroom

The bathroom is the only place in the apartment where a completely different microclimate reigns, full of humidity and heat. Everything in it is constantly subjected to a variety of loads, ranging from water to temperature.

In the bathroom, an outlet is a necessary thing, but with the above in mind, you still need to take the option of transferring inside the bathroom, rather than transferring outside of it. In this case, however, you can only take waterproof sockets. Their feature is the shutters that block access to the mechanism, and a durable sealed case.

For such products, the protection level is usually around IP 44, but can go up to 55. With such protection, all the water will be outside the case, but not inside. If she has an index of 66, she is even more resistant. She will not be afraid of a powerful jet with high pressure.

An ordinary outlet has an index of IP20, which is absolutely unstable to water, and it will quickly burn out, and “goodbye” will leave behind a short circuit.

How to spot fake sockets and switches

When buying an outlet, anything can happen, and it may well be the fact that you could run into a fake. To understand whether it is the original or in front of you, you need to take several steps.

Way	Description
Smell the product	Yes, it will look so-so from the outside, but sometimes the smell is enough to understand that you have a counterfeit. Let's explain why. The originals are made of plastic, which has no smell, but fakes have such a smell and the reason for it is poor-quality material.
Feel and "weigh" on the hand	Original sockets from quality manufacturers weigh quite a lot, they will feel heavy on the hand. This can be explained by high-quality durable material, as well as the thickness of the product. Fake will weigh less.
Pay attention to the quality of the body	In the presence of a large number a variety of cracks and fragility of the structure, we can safely say that in front of you is a fake. In addition, if the case is screwed or soldered, then this is also a fake. The original is all done on snaps.
Inspect appearance contacts	The easiest way to check this is with built-in models, since their contacts are in plain sight. For cabinet ones, everything is a little more complicated, but in general, grounding is enough. If it is made poorly, then the other wires are the same. If so, then in front of you is a “homemade”.

Results

In order to comfortably use various household appliances and simply turn on the lights in the rooms, you should use only high-quality sockets and switches that will not let you down and will not cause an unpleasant and even life-threatening situation. It is better not to save money and invest once in quality products from trusted manufacturers, which are presented in our rating.

Switches are different, and the backlit option may not always suit you. From it, simply, and LED lamps. Therefore, they must be chosen correctly! No matter how strange it may sound, you really need to take into account several important rules ...

What does this tell us?

Everything is just enough 10 X 250 = 2500 watts, or 2.5 kW.

So if you have ordinary incandescent bulbs, often with a power of 100 watts (piece), then such a switch can pull 25 pieces! With a larger connection, it will simply burn out.

Of course, now incandescent lamps are a thing of the past, LEDs are coming in their place - and they have much less consumption, but you should remember about the maximum load!

Foundation structure

It is after the load that I want to talk a little about the structure of the "insides" - not the upper decorative material, namely "bottom". There are two options here - plastic or ceramic.

Plastic - as a rule, withstands loads up to 16 Amps, is less resistant to high loads. However, it is cheaper and widely available.

Ceramics - can withstand up to 32 Amperes, there are also types that hold a large load, it is difficult to find them, they are much more expensive.

I would like to explain a little right away, if you have an ordinary room, then a plastic “base” will be enough. Because they are now used, and they consume very little.

However, if you have a large room, let's say a whole room in 100 - 300 square meters, you need to sum up the load!

Humidity

Be sure to take into account! The accepted accounting standard is the letters IP, the higher this indicator on the package means it can be used in wet rooms or outdoors. If the switch is in a normal room, then you can take it with IP 20, if you put it in the bathroom - IP 44, if it is outside (where there is snow and rain), at least IP 55.

Switching principle

As I wrote above, there are several switching principles - these are ordinary mechanical and so-called "electronic". The latter, in turn, can be divided into touch and activated from the remote control.

Conventional Mechanics - there is nothing special to write here, usually it is one or more keys that mechanically (by pressing) turn on or turn off the electrical circuit. I would like to note that there can be a lot of variations of “mechanics” - these are buttons, levers, rotary knobs, dimmers, laces, “sliders”, etc. In fact, they perform the same function.

Electronic, touch - the principle of the sensor works here, that is, they touch it and the light turns off, touch it again - it turns on. The switch itself has a complex and expensive mechanism, the convenience is debatable, because the sensors are a rather capricious thing. These types are bought less often than the "ordinary" ones, of course, because of the high price and questionable reliability. I would also like to note that earlier there were “sensors” that worked for cotton, now they are practically non-existent. Already after the first applications, they began to respond to loud noises, which was extremely inconvenient, now they have practically disappeared from store shelves.

Electronic, remote control are gaining popularity. That is, there is a remote control like on a TV, when you point to the switch, you can either turn on the light or turn it off. Also, some manufacturers have such a function as adding or decreasing lighting, that is, it is a kind of dimmer. The structure contains a microcircuit that sends signals to close or open the circuit.

Motion sensors - of course, these are not exactly switches, but they are worth noting. They work from the movements of a person, as soon as he crosses a certain radius of action, the electricity is turned on. Then, after a certain time, the circuit opens. However, such sensors are rarely used in apartments.

Single or multi-key

Ordinary, mechanical, you can choose several types - with one key or with two / three. One key opens one lighting circuit, so it can only be set to one lighting fixture. But with two or three, as it becomes clear, 2 or 3 circuits open, so they need to be installed where necessary. For example, a large chandelier in the hall, or the inclusion of several adjacent rooms, usually a bathroom, a toilet and a corridor.

Mounting type

It is important to choose according to the type of installation - it is either external or internal. If you have a socket box and hidden wiring is done, then you need internal ones. If you mount on the wall, and your wiring is open, then you need to install the outdoor type.

Is backlight needed?

There are both ordinary non-illuminated switches and illuminated switches that have small LEDs built into them. Illuminated ones are convenient because they can be seen in the dark. However, again, some LED lamps may burn dimly from this,. Therefore, think about which ones to choose, and whether you need backlighting.

Wire connection

The thing is that now there are both ordinary terminals into which wires are twisted, and more “advanced” models that have special clips based on springs or a clip. As for me, you need to take it with a regular screw, this is the most reliable option.

Brands, Colors, Material, Design, Cost

In terms of design and color, I don’t want to say anything at all, because to each his own. Someone loves red, but for someone it is very vulgar. So choose what you like.

But I’ll say a few words about the material - now there are not only plastic cases, but also stone, metal, wooden ones, I even saw clay ones. So the choice is really big.

In terms of cost, these are the cheapest plastic options, both outside (decorative cover) and inside (the base itself). They start literally from 30 rubles. The most expensive that I have ever seen are glass author's works made under crystal - the cost reached several thousand rubles.

If you knock out brands, you get three levels:

Expensive - from 3 to 10,000 rubles - FEDE (Spain), MK Electric (England), B Ticino (Italy), BEKER (Germany)

Medium - up to 1000 rubles. — LEZARD, LEGRAND, ABB

Cheap - up to 100 rubles. – WESSEN, TERN, many domestic brands.

As you can see, there are many things to consider, despite simple design. I think my article will help you with this.

Now we are watching the video version of the article.

That's all, read our construction site.

Wiring elements are an integral part of any electrical network. It is with their participation that the use of electricity is carried out. Therefore, during the repair process, the question often arises of how to choose sockets and switches for an apartment in order to ensure maximum convenience and comfort. There are a lot of selection criteria, but it is recommended to start by studying the varieties of these products.

Design features of sockets and switches

Almost all switches and sockets are used multiple times throughout the day for extended periods of time. In addition, they are constantly exposed to mains voltage. Therefore, when solving the problem of which sockets and switches to choose, one should pay attention not only to external data, but first of all, take an interest in their reliability and safety in operation.

The main function of such products is to provide network switching with electrical appliances and lamps. During operation, there is a constant opening or closing of contacts. In sockets, the pins of the plugs are connected to the contact petals, and in the switches, keys are provided for this purpose. Under the influence of the flowing current, the contacts are constantly heated. Additional Negative influence renders electric arc, which occurs at the moment of chain rupture, due to which premature destruction of contact groups often occurs.

Quality products with optimal design successfully cope with all loads and serve the terms that the manufacturing company sets for 15-20 years. They are not subject to overheating, do not allow sparking and are resistant to high temperatures.

When choosing an electrical outlet or switch, you need to check the quality of the main structural components. In sockets, these are contacts made in the form of petals. A strong metal spring is installed at the base, connecting them together. If such a spring is absent, then the product is unreliable and will not last long. Therefore, this socket is not suitable for hob electric stove.

For the manufacture of high-quality contacts, a material with good electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion is used. The basis of the entire socket is the core, inside which the petals and contact clamps are connected. In old sockets, it was ceramic, and now a special electrical plastic is used for it, which is not subject to overheating and is resistant to mechanical stress.

Varieties of electrical sockets

How to choose an outlet? Typically, sockets are available with or without grounding (Fig. 1), which are selected in accordance with the technical conditions. For example, or in bathrooms where powerful equipment is installed, sockets are subject to mandatory grounding, including those used for the hob.

For rooms with high humidity it is better to choose sockets equipped with covers (Fig. 2). They are installed in swimming pools, bathrooms or outdoors, as is often the case in private homes. The protective cover covers the socket and is an effective barrier to moisture. In addition, such products have an additional degree of protection.

In many cases, it is much more convenient to use double sockets (Fig. 3) installed in a common mounting box. When buying, you should pay attention to the quality of the internal elements, since such products are often subjected to double loads.

In children's rooms, sockets equipped with a special valve or protective shutters are installed (Fig. 4). Thus, the device is protected from childish pranks and opens only under the action of an electric plug. Another type of socket has an ejection function (fig. 5) that allows you to easily remove the plug. The wire is additionally protected from damage, which is especially important with frequent changes in household appliances.

The so-called smart sockets (Fig. 6) are equipped with a timer that turns off at a set time. In this case, the plug remains connected to the device, but it turns out to be de-energized.

There are other types of sockets used in low-voltage networks. Antennas, radio points, etc. are connected to them. Some designs are equipped with several connectors at once. In private homes, power sockets can be installed for connecting electric motors, welding and other powerful equipment.

Electrical switches

When solving the problem of how to choose a switch, it should be noted that these devices, like sockets, are presented in a wide range. In most rooms, conventional appliances are installed. Recently, switching devices equipped with backlight have become popular. They are installed in the darkest places - corridors, hallways, kitchens, etc.

There are switches with a basic function. They are used in conjunction with conventional incandescent lamps. According to the method of inclusion, they can be mechanical or touch type. The light level is changed by simply turning the knob. Pass-through switches are designed to control light from various points in the room. They can be equipped with several keys connected to different lighting groups.

According to the type of design, the switches are divided into one-, two- and three-key devices. All appliances, both sockets and switches, are designed for use with concealed and outdoor wiring. The designs of such devices are fundamentally different from each other.

Criterias of choice

The basis for reliable and durable operation of switching devices are contacts that provide connection to the electrical network.

By their own design features contact systems are divided into two main groups:

• Screw. They have been used for a long time and are still used, including with a ground electrode. They are considered the most reliable, but require regular tightening at least once every 3 months. This is due to the gradual shrinkage of the conductor under the action of helical pressure, as a result of which the contact with the network becomes weaker. If you do not tighten it, it will gradually burn out due to repeated overheating, especially when using the socket for the hob.
• Quick release. Compared to screw contacts, they have undeniable advantages. Contacts after shrinkage are automatically tightened by means of a spring, periodic tightening is not required. The minimum service life of such systems is 15 years. Ideal for use in apartments and private homes. The new sockets have a grounding contact.

Of great importance is the material from which the switching devices are made. The strength of the product largely depends on this. The following types of materials are mainly used:

• Metal. Applies to switches only.
• Different kinds heat-resistant and impact-resistant plastics.
• Plastic with rubber properties for waterproof products.

These options are considered the best, providing high quality products. Devices made from them are not destroyed by accidental impacts, they are resistant to high temperatures and do not ignite in case of short circuits and other damage to the network. Anti-vandal products used for outdoor installation and in public places are considered especially durable.

Main facing materials are thermoplastic and duroplast. The first option is characterized by high plasticity and is used in most products. The only negative is the appearance of scratches from any mechanical influences. The second material has higher strength and rigidity. It is non-flammable and does not leave scratches on its surface. Duroplast is very fragile, but subject to the rules of operation, this drawback is not noticeable at all.

When decorating the interiors of the premises, design solutions use non-standard materials. The color of the sockets imitates wood, stone, glass. They are not as safe to operate, so they require additional measures and better electrical wiring.

Electrical outlet safety

Compared to switches, sockets carry higher loads and are subject to the damaging effects of electric current. In this regard, safety issues in the operation of these devices are in the first place.

First of all, for each device, you need to determine which current and voltage are best suited for it. For most sockets, you should choose values ​​corresponding to 6A and 250 volts. Before choosing, you must make sure that the degree of protection is suitable for the future place of operation.

The packaging of sockets and switches is marked with an IP code that corresponds to a certain level of protection. It contains two numbers. The first digit is in the range from 0 to 6 and it is used to select the degree of protection from dust and small objects:

• 0 - no protection at all.
• 1 - protection against objects larger than 50 mm.
• 3 - the same for objects over 12 mm.
• 4 - the same for objects over 1-2.5 mm.
• 5 - dust protection.
• 6 - complete protection against dust and objects, regardless of size.

The second digit corresponds to the degree of protection from moisture. In this case, the range is 0 to 8:

• 0 - the product is not protected in any way.
• 1 - protection against drops falling vertically.
• 2 - drops fall at an angle of 15 degrees.
• 3 - splashes of moisture at an angle of 60 degrees.
• 4 - splashes of any format, in addition to those listed.
• 5 - light water jets.
• 6 - strong water jet.
• 7 - short-term immersion in water.
• 8 - prolonged stay in water (full protection).

The most prestigious are products from manufacturers Legrand, Schneider, ABB and others. Everyone knows their advantages, it remains only to choose a specific product for certain operating conditions. The high cost is due to the same high quality and durability of these devices.

More economical options for the home are offered by Viko and IEK. They are of decent quality for a reasonable price. As a rule, these products work out the declared service life. Which one to choose, everyone decides for himself.

There are a lot of counterfeit products under the brands of well-known brands at present. To accurately select the switches of the desired type, you should follow some rules:

• Fake plastic is smelly. Therefore, it is best to sniff such sockets immediately.
• Estimate the weight of the device in your hand. The chosen expensive socket cannot be light, as they are made of high-quality and durable materials with normal thickness. The fakes feel too light, which is noticeable almost immediately when you pick them up.
• You need to carefully examine the body. There should be no cracks, and technical gaps are visible in a minimum amount. Original products are easily disassembled and assembled, and fastening is carried out using latches. If the case is screwed or soldered, then this device is counterfeit and can pierce to the ground.
• Check the appearance and condition of the contacts of sockets and switches. In normal condition, they are golden in color and are not subject to corrosion. Darkened metal parts indicate poor quality.

Everyone has experienced exploitation in their life. electrical sockets, but when you have to do repairs yourself or change a failed outlet, then questions arise. What outlets are best? How to choose an outlet from the entire huge range of products offered in a store, supermarket or online store. To do this, you need to understand the specification of each type of sockets and choose in accordance with the working conditions and functions performed, as well as the requirements for their safe use.

Varieties of sockets

Concealed or internal socket

It is used in tandem with hidden wiring, which is mounted in special grooves in the walls (strobes), this is the most common type of sockets that is used in almost all residential premises, offices and other institutions. Only a neat bezel with an outer cover remains on the surface, where the plug with a cord is stuck, and all wires, fasteners and the core are hidden in a specially prepared socket, the depth of which should be no less than the thickness of the core. This is done using a perforator with a special crown with victorious teeth.

Outdoor or Surface Socket

This type is suitable if the wiring is done in an open way or is carried out in special plastic or aluminum boxes (cable channels) closed with a special lid with a latch. This type of sockets is used for decorative installation, and is also used in wooden buildings, where, according to fire safety rules, only such external wiring and overhead sockets and switches are used.

Various colors and shades

This criterion when choosing sockets is more about the design solution and is applied specifically for the chosen interior of the room. The domestic market is saturated with different shades and colors. The main acceptable option, qualitatively different from the usual colors, is a socket for various shades of wood, it is also made of high-quality plastic.

with ground terminal

This version of the sockets is equipped with a grounding tap, which is connected to the ground loop and serves as a high-quality protection of people from damage. electric shock. For this, it is necessary that all electrical system indoors must be carried out using a ground wire. That is, it consists of three phase wires, zero, and ground. Do not connect the ground wire to zero! Such sockets are required for the hob, refrigerator, that is, for all appliances that have a housing made of conductive material, which, due to insulation breakdown, may be energized.

Screw connection of conductive wires

In such sockets, the wires are clamped in the socket with special bolts or screws. This is the most common and very common connection method.

Clamp connections

This is a novelty developed by a South Korean company, in which the wire is fixed in the contact connection due to the clamp, which expands when pressed and contracts when released, thereby ensuring contact. This type of connection and sockets is recommended if the consumers connected to it are low-power, since when powerful power receivers are connected, the contact may heat up due to weak fixation. This is especially true for wiring made of aluminum, as it has been proven that aluminum reduces the diameter of the conductors over time, although this decrease is very small.

This type of socket is equipped with a special shutter, which, when the plug is not connected to it, is closed and the child will not be able to put in any objects through which he will receive a discharge. The shutters open when the electrical plug is pushed into the socket.

Timer or controlled

Such sockets are equipped with a timer; it can be electrical or mechanical. There are also innovative outlets controlled via the Internet or a mobile network. This is a rather expensive type of outlet, with unique features for switching on and off at a distance.

With push-out mechanism

They are equipped with a special, neat button when pressed, which requires a minimum of effort to pull the electrical plug from the outlet. This type of socket is effective in places where it is inconvenient due to furniture or other reasons to disconnect the plug from the socket. For example, behind a refrigerator, or a closet.

With voltage indication

In such a connection device, there is a small indicator lamp that indicates the presence of voltage in the outlet. This is very convenient at night, in the dark when the lights are off and you need to look for a source of electrical energy by touch.

With increased protection against dust and water

This degree of protection should be specified in any electrical appliance and it is indicated by the IP type marking followed by two digits. The first of these is protection against dust getting inside the socket, there are only 6 of them. The weakest protection is zero, and maximum protection represented by the number six. The second digit is the protection of the device from moisture getting inside it and there are 8 levels in total, the maximum of which is the eighth. That is, if any electrical appliance has an IP 68 value, then this device is considered to be the maximum protected from any dust and can be used even under water. For example, sockets with the index IP 54 are used in the bath, and IP 20 in the apartment.

Retractable sockets

This type of sockets also very recently appeared on the domestic market, but has already won its consumer. This type of socket is installed in a countertop or shelf, for example, in the kitchen, and, if necessary, is pulled out using a special mechanism installed in it. One of the varieties of such sockets is floor. Both floor-mounted and built-in retractable sockets can also be equipped with additional USB sockets for charging mobile phones and tablets, as well as RCD (residual current device).

window

This is latest development scientists of the 21st century, which is not yet widespread in the world, but already exists. It is attached to the window on the sunny side and transforms solar energy into electrical. Time will tell how this type of sockets will take root in everyday life.

If everything is already clear with the types of sockets, then you can proceed to the choice of the socket itself. The choice of sockets is based on the universal law of economic benefit. This means that quality good sockets cannot be very cheap, and the pricing policy will always be confirmed by the quality of workmanship, and hence the duration of its trouble-free operation.

Practical tips on how to choose sockets and which sockets are best:

1. When choosing sockets, you should always pay attention to the material from which the product is made;
2. Cheap soft plastic will not last long, but it also quickly scratches and breaks;
3. All receptacle housings must be clearly marked with the manufacturer or brand of the appliance. If there is no marking, such a product should not be taken;
4. Socket contacts should not be made of thin metal;
5. The gaps between the plastic components must be the same and even;
6. If possible, you can smell the smell of the material, cheap Chinese goods always have a sharp unpleasant odor;
7. The choice of fastening must correspond to the desired one, and the larger and better the fastening elements, the more expensive the purchase will be;
8. If there is an instruction, then this is also an indicator of the high quality of the outlet;
9. Preference should be given globally famous brands and brands, as their quality control of the products sold is always on top;
10. Very convenient for indoor use are combined strips, in which there are not only sockets, but also light switches;
11. You need to choose sockets according to the current load and voltage. For example, for a hob, you should not take an outlet less than 16 amps and 250 volts.

If you take into account all these nuances, then you can choose the best sockets for a specific use and certain rooms. which will last for many years without complaints and problems. The World Wide Web offers many socket reviews that will clarify each specific model.

It must be remembered that the main dangerous consequence incorrect selection may cause a fire due to heating of the connecting contacts of the socket.

The choice of socket and switch must be carried out taking into account the specifics of the use of the premises, the reputation of the manufacturer of the relevant equipment and the features of the devices to be connected.

The choice of such products can make even a professional electrician think: the range on display, presented in a specialized store, is wide and varied. And it is not easy for a simple consumer to navigate the criteria and safety requirements for the most plain sight electrical equipment that has to be used daily and repeatedly.

What sockets and switches should be installed in the apartment

Two common groups that do not leave much choice for a person living in a residential area:

• securely fixed hidden (or internal) sockets;
• as safe as possible, with wires laid in special grooves (overhead or external).

The second group is used exclusively for original decorative purposes or is recommended by fire safety regulations for installation in wooden rooms. In an apartment, office or institution, internal sockets are used, in which only the rim and holes for the plug remain for a visual overview.

In fact, everything turns out to be not so simple: you can decide on the subject of preference only if you know your own requirements: what kind of premises the structure is intended for, what security measures are necessary, and even what style compliance is planned to be achieved. Since these are functional devices, for continuous operation, they will need reliability and additional gadgets.<

Correct selection options

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

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

For bathroom

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

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

Kitchen

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

Bedroom and hall

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

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

Both in the bedroom and in the hall, the aesthetic component is important. Therefore, attention is paid to the color and decor of the electrical outlet. But in the hall it is better to give preference to the built-in type with a backlight indicator, and in the bedroom - to make it easier to press when awake with the same light of the indicator, only with a soft toggle key of the overhead type. It is easy and simple to find it with your hand in the dark, and the characteristic click is much quieter.

Living room and corridor

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

Veranda and balcony

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

How to choose the best quality and most reliable sockets for the Internet

The correct choice of such an outlet is made according to 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 will be category 5 and 6 products, for example, RJ-45. If the supermarket does not have a consultant for this category, or it is not well aware of the type of product for connecting the Internet, it is better to consult a person who is involved in this area.

How to distinguish a fake

Absolutely simple process, even in appearance. If there is no special marking, or it is somehow stuck, plastic products are distinguished by roughness and a pungent odor, uneven or uneven gaps between the constituent segments - this is already a sign of falsification. You can look at the material of manufacture and contacts (they should not be crumpled and made of thin metal).

TOP popular brands: what to take

Recommendations from professionals involved in the installation of electrical wiring equipment from Legrand, Schneider Electric, Polo, ABB, Jung are excellent, and preference is given in the listed sequence. Legrand collected the greatest number of positive reviews: buyers note the original design, the quality of the materials used, the multifunctionality of the device and the long-term, trouble-free operation.

The best inexpensive sockets and switches

In a relatively inexpensive price segment, you can pay attention to the products of Chinese and Turkish manufacturers, about which there are many positive reviews: Makel, Viko, Bticino, Wessen, Lezard.

The use of a non-standard option is justified in rooms with a specialized purpose, and the simplest ones are also suitable for a room and a bedroom. Sometimes people intentionally buy the most expensive item in order to guarantee themselves a quality item with a long service life.

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