Sockets and switches are integral parts of using the conveniences that electricity provides. They can be completely different shapes, purpose and configuration. You can choose exactly the product that suits you the best way will fit into the interior and will best suit its purpose. In addition, a wide range of prices for electrical fittings will allow you to choose what suits your pocket perfectly. This will be very easy to do if you read the suggested purchase rules below and follow them.
Both sockets and switches have many different functions depending on the product types.
Types of sockets
Before choosing an outlet, first determine suitable look products, taking into account that they are of the following types:
- Sockets without grounding. They are used in cases where grounding is not provided or is not necessary, for example, in residential premises.
- Grounded sockets. Installed in places where it is important to have grounding. Most often these are the kitchen or an outlet for connecting a computer. They are also used in private homes.
- Sockets with cover. The use of such an outlet is relevant in rooms with high humidity, such as a bathroom, boiler room, swimming pool, external socket on the house. Such products have a special cover that covers the entire area of the outlet and actively prevents the ingress of water or moisture. In addition, it is important to know that sockets for use in wet areas must have special degree protection in IP.
- Double sockets. They are mounted in a socket box, allowing you to use two electrical connections at once. The not very reliable mechanics of such an outlet can be unsafe.
- Sockets with a protective shutter or valve. Children's rooms are equipped with such sockets to prevent the possibility of plugging something thin into them. The openings of such an outlet are covered with a kind of curtain, which opens only if an electrical plug is inserted into it.
- Plug-pull sockets. They are equipped with a special button, by pressing which a person can easily remove the plug from the socket. Protects the wire from damage, useful in places where equipment is frequently changed, for example, in the kitchen or hairdresser.
- Sockets with shutdown timer. The timer function allows you to independently set the operating time of the outlet. It is important, if necessary, to turn off the network at night or in production at the end of the working day. Also used in combination with appliances equipped with a timer, such as an air conditioner, electric oven, multicooker or TV.
- Special sockets. Designed for antennas, telephones, radio points, computers, etc. There are both built-in and overhead options. There are also types that combine several connectors at the same time.
- Power connectors. Special plug connections, which are mainly used on construction sites to connect particularly high-power devices, for example, a welding machine.
Types of switches
To get a clearer picture of how to choose a circuit breaker or a manual one, also initially read existing varieties provided by modern manufacturers:
Important! All sockets and switches are also divided into two types, depending on the type of wiring:
- external wiring;
- hidden wiring.
When choosing a device, pay attention to this, as they are not interchangeable, and you may have to go to the store to get a replacement if, when deciding which sockets to choose, you chose the wrong option.
How to choose a switch by type of design?
As already mentioned, switches can have several design options:
When considering sockets and switches, which ones to choose, decide based on the criterion of maximum convenience and the characteristics of the network wiring. Also take into account the number of lamps in the lighting fixture. 
How to distinguish quality products from fakes?
To be able to determine the quality of the product yourself, do the following:
Which contact system is better?
There are two types of systems:
Considering all of the above, quick-release systems have the following advantages:
Which material is better?
Since the switch and socket are devices that are regularly exposed to mechanical force, it is important to choose a product from materials of increased strength:
To understand why it is better to give preference to such options, let’s note some advantages:
Facing material
As facing material two types are used:
In addition to products made from the two materials described above, which have a simple design, there are more sophisticated options, but less safe:
Safety indicators
The main indicators that determine the degree of reliability and safety of the device are its technical specifications: Voltage and current of precisely calculated strength. These are the characteristics that should be taken into account first of all if you independently cope with the task of how to choose the right outlet. 
The main number of sockets is designed for the following conditions:
To determine the level of protection yourself, be sure to look for a special IP code on the socket packaging, which is a conditional indicator. It is indicated by two numbers:
Of course, the higher the IP, the better protection and the more expensive the socket. Therefore, keep in mind that the standard indicators recommended for different types premises meet the following parameters:
Price categories of sockets and switches
There are several price groups electrical outlets and switches. Each of them has advantages and disadvantages. 
Which color do you prefer?
The color palette of modern products is quite diverse, so it allows you to choose a suitable socket or switch that will fit perfectly and very organically into the interior with any choice of shades. 
It includes the following design options:
Which manufacturer should you prefer?
All the manufacturers presented below have already proven themselves in the electrical fittings market. You can find information about each of these brands on the Internet. The full range of products offered is also presented there. 
Check out several well-known manufacturers to make your purchasing choice easier:
Video
Check out the video review of sockets and switches to clearly understand distinctive features different types.
Conclusion
Installing sockets and switches is the final chord in your renovation. High-quality products will serve you for many years, but it is worth remembering that you can make the choice yourself, and it is better to trust the installation of such products to professionals. The safety of your home directly depends on this.
From correct selection and the location of electrical installation products in the apartment depends not only on the convenience and safety of using electricity, but also appearance premises. Sockets and switches play a significant role in the interior, giving it completeness.
Main types of switches and sockets
Moisture-proof sockets and switches Suitable for use in wet rooms - bathrooms, saunas, etc. Such products are marked IEC 529-89 and comply with GOST 14254-96. This means that splashing water will not disrupt the normal functioning of sockets and switches. Sockets with protective curtains are especially useful if there are small children in the house. Special plugs inside do not allow objects to enter the device - the baby will not be able to insert a nail or finger into such a socket. This socket can only be “unblocked” by using the plug. Sockets with a pusher To avoid the effort of pulling the plug from the socket, you can purchase sockets with a pusher. You press on a special “ear”, and the plug itself is pushed out of the socket. Key switches Usually one- and two-key, less often - three-key. Some manufacturers produce products with a large number of keys, but they are not very convenient for apartments.
Switches with light indicator The purpose of the indicators can be different - it is selected depending on the requirements. Sometimes a glowing indicator on the switch signals that the device is on (this is convenient if the switched-on light bulb is behind a closed door), and sometimes the indicator “light” is constantly on - thanks to this, the switch is easy to find on the wall in the dark. Switches Work in pairs. Very convenient in long corridors, on stairs, etc. One of the switches, located at the entrance to the corridor, turns on the light bulbs, the other, mounted at the opposite end of the corridor, turns off the light. Heading in the opposite direction, you can repeat the procedure in reverse order. Dimmers (dimmers) Regulate the brightness of the lamp from bright lighting to dim lighting. Usually these are touch buttons built into the switch. By pressing the button, you can gently adjust the light. Motion sensor The motion sensor built into the switch reacts to the presence of a person. It is worth noting that such switches are not recommended to be installed near heating devices, since they can react to heat and turn on when they are not required to do so. TimerTimers built into switches can be part of the " smart House" With their help, you can program the on/off switching of lamps or other electrical appliances depending on your requirements. Switches in the smart home system
The home control system takes control of every light source in all rooms, regardless of the location and type of luminaires. Together with manual control(using a switch installed on the wall) it becomes possible to turn on/off, adjust brightness, and monitor serviceability remotely. From your bedroom, you can turn off the lights in the whole house or just in the nursery, or leave night lighting on duty. The control of lighting devices is based on the ideology of lighting scenarios. Its essence is that by pressing a smart switch key or a virtual button on the touch panel, you simultaneously control the operation of several lamps in accordance with the program laid down by the designer (or you personally). Passive used by the system infrared sensors or photocells can control light sources automatically, with or without the use of conventional wall switches. For example, light accompanies a person as he moves through rooms (tracking light).Design of sockets and switches
Modern sockets and switches are not only utilitarian devices, but also decorative elements, one of the components of interior design. Although the simplest ones are still popular - as a rule, white and square sockets and switches, products with more interesting designs are increasingly coming into fashion.
Shapes The shape of these products can be varied. The most popular is the square frame, which can be combined with either a square or rectangular, or a round or oval key. Sometimes the corners square frame rounded. Oval frames are becoming more and more popular. Often the frame of the switch (or socket) is made of different materials or of the same material, but of a different shade. And the front panel itself can be flat or convex. In addition, there are sockets and switches with replaceable frames: if necessary, the frame can be replaced with the same one, but of a different color. The product itself does not need to be changed. Materials, shades High-quality plastic electrical installation products are made from special types of plastic (duroplast, thermoplastic, etc.). These are impact-resistant, UV- and weather-resistant materials. They can be very different in color - from traditional white and ivory to bright red, green, blue, etc. In addition to the usual plastic, modern designer switches and sockets (in particular, their frames or keys) can be made made from natural wood, stone, steel, aluminum, brass, chrome, glass, there are even products made from alloys of gold and silver. The frame can be smooth or rough, matte or shiny, iridescent or even shimmering. 
Series (collections) Sometimes entire series of sockets and switches are produced, which are made in the same style. A wide selection of different lines and shapes allows you to choose the ideal option for any style - empire, modern, baroque, country, hi-tech, etc. Such series often include maximum amount functional elements: sockets and switches for rooms, bathrooms, offices, etc. Devices of the same series combine color, a characteristic silhouette, and the materials used. Telecommunication sockets
This separate species sockets The European standard provides for two outputs at once - for simultaneous connection to the central antenna of a TV and a radio operating in the FM range. There are also sockets, in the housing of which there are TV, radio and satellite sockets. And a telephone socket usually has two outputs: either both for telephones, or one for a telephone and the other for a computer. Sockets for the telephone network have an RJ11 connector), sockets for a computer network have an RJ45 connector.
Placement in the interior
It is not necessary to use the same white switches and sockets in all areas of the apartment. When creating a stylish interior, experiment with the colors and shapes of these products, just make sure that they do not deviate from the overall style of the interior. For example, if the apartment has shiny chrome door furniture or lamp parts, then sockets and switches should also have metal or silver-plated parts, and not gold or copper. And vice versa. It is also desirable that matte and gloss do not “argue” with each other. If the fittings are glossy, then the sockets with switches should not be matte. Bright white switches and sockets do not always look beautiful in an apartment (especially if the main colors of the interior are warm and calm). But, if you don't want to experiment with unusual materials or shades of these products, choose the color “ivory”, in home interior it will look more appropriate than pure white.
If you decide to use colored electrical installation products, you should not match them to the color of the walls: firstly, it is very difficult to match the tone. Secondly, colored sockets and switches can be used to advantageously emphasize or repeat some interior detail. For example, glass table and the cabinets will be perfectly complemented with rosettes with glass frames. And, for example, wooden frames electrical accessories can be successfully matched to wooden curtains. - When purchasing a switch, inspect it carefully. On inside The current and voltage values must be indicated, as well as the quality standard icon of the country of origin. - Do not place a motion sensor switch in rooms. This option is only for walk-through premises where people visit only from time to time. Otherwise, while in the room, you won’t even be able to sit quietly on the sofa: to keep the light connected to the sensor from going out, you’ll have to move all the time. - When placing blocks of sockets and switches on the walls, remember that in the vast majority of series of sockets from different manufacturers there are no frames for more than 5 posts. This means that you cannot design more than 5 sockets and switches side by side (as one block). - Bedside sockets should not be placed too high, as these sockets are often used for charging mobile phone or connecting a laptop. For the same reason, there should be at least two sockets near the bed on each side - the second sockets will be needed for bedside lamps and floor lamps. For assistance in preparing the material, the editors would like to thank Natalya Shatravka, director of the Ural regional branch of Vessen LLC (Krasnoarmeyskaya St., 92a, office 506, tel. 356-57-01). Material prepared by Vera Yakovleva Electricity, which is a valuable energy resource, provides the opportunity to bring warmth and coziness, a special atmosphere of comfort into a house or apartment; moreover, it warms you in cold weather, provides light and power to electrical appliances.
Modern housing does not come without all sorts of household devices and devices powered by the network or mobile gadgets that require recharging, computers and televisions are impossible to imagine leisure time.
A complete layout of functioning power sources must be carefully thought out and worked out before carrying out a set of works on arranging housing or utility rooms in the apartment.
Having studied in detail the proposed photos of outlets in the room, you can independently prepare a project for the distribution of power supplies, which will take into account interior and design solutions.
What determines the placement of sockets and installation
In each residential or commercial premises, ready for occupancy, there are already certain engineering systems and communications, which include connecting electrical wires to certain outputs.
When pre-planning the future distribution of sockets in any room, it is important to install them so that they are freely accessible and do not spoil the aesthetics of the designated functional area.
In addition to the necessary power supplies, you can install one or two, which can be used instead of busy sockets, in emergencies and when the need arises.
Conceptual features of socket placement
According to frequently used European standards, power supplies for electrical appliances and electronic devices must be installed at least 15 cm from the floor; do not forget that in this case small children and animals have open access to them.
Adhering to the most important safety standards and regulations correct location sockets are carried out at the level of a raised hand, which can significantly affect the concept stylistic design living room for any purpose.
For the corridor, you can provide no more than one socket, which is used in emergencies or to connect an electric dryer for wet shoes.
Bathroom and toilet. Power supplies are placed next to the hair dryer mirror and in close proximity to washing machine, ensuring its constant performance.
Living room or common room. First you need to accurately determine the planned location of the TV and tuner, wall sconces or floor lamps installed on the floor, 3-4 separate slots are enough.
Kitchen or dinner Zone. In such designated areas, the installation height of the sockets plays an important role; to ensure increased safety, 2-3 sockets with a protective casing are installed.
Bedroom or boudoir. Sockets are effectively distributed on both sides of the bed to provide easy and comfortable access when turning on additional lamps or placing gadgets on charge.
Personal and work account. The provided 5-7 slots are enough for normal operation of a personal computer and monitor, additional devices such as a printer, scanner or speaker system.
Children's or game room. For these premises, power sources with specialized protection, they must be placed out of the reach of children, at the level of an adult’s shoulders.
Special attention should be paid to the outlet, which is intended to power air purification systems or air conditioning; due to the specifics of their installation, power supplies are mounted 30 cm lower from the ceiling.
What to do if there are not enough sockets
Knowing how to install a socket with your own hands, you can supplement the existing power supply system and provide your family and friends with comfortable access to free devices for charging your phone or other needs.
Self-installation must be carried out based on the general design concept of a room or its functional area with a preliminary shutdown of the power supply to the entire apartment, observing increased safety measures and not leaving exposed wires.
Photo of sockets in the room
If with constructively It’s clear (the socket box is embedded - we install a hidden one, if it’s not in the wall - we go for the outer one), then less noticeable details require attention. First of all, we look at contacts- two stamped brass plates, as is done on cheap sockets, are only suitable for low-current loads, even if “16 A” is proudly written on the socket. The fact is that such contacts spark and burn (turn on a powerful switching power supply - you will see for yourself), become loose with frequent switching, and therefore begin to spark and burn even more intensely. Full-fledged spring-loaded contacts are the only right choice for frequently used sockets and high-power consumers. Expensive? But we also buy an outlet for years, not for weeks.
If there are children at home or at least planned, choose sockets with protective shutters, covering the holes. Moreover, the curtains should open when both are pressed simultaneously when the plug is inserted, and not individually. Didn't you put nails in sockets as a child? The author had to. True, it was not a nail, but a wire, but it was memorable all the same, and even, it seems, prompted me to choose a specialty. These same curtains will be useful, for example, in the kitchen - there is some kind of protection against splashes, but in such conditions, of course, a full-fledged cover is definitely better.
Mechanical strength It won't be superfluous for sure. No, of course, we all know that you can’t just pull the cord out of the socket without holding it with your hand, and so on, and so on - but in practice, for some reason, this is how we break them, isn’t it? Therefore, both the fastening itself in the socket box and the fastening of the frame must be solid.
Happy shopping!
