Overview of existing types of sockets and switches

The modern market of electrical goods offers a large number of types of sockets and switches for various purposes, performance and quality. For the correct and safe operation of such electrical equipment, you must be able to choose a model for each specific case. Not the last place in the choice is the manufacturer of electrical goods and materials used in the manufacture of sockets and switches.

Types of Outlets

The standard voltage value of a home electrical network is 220 volts. Therefore, the classification of household outlets is mainly given for this voltage class. Most household consumers have power rated for this voltage value. If it becomes necessary to connect high-power appliances, industrial outlets are also used in everyday life. Such sockets are designed for a three-phase electrical network with a voltage of 380 volts.

Sockets are distinguished by their purpose, design, degree of protection against moisture and mechanical penetration.

The socket is a contact electrical equipment of the plug type (plug / socket).

In Russia, the CIS countries, standard models of sockets type “C” and “F” are used. Such types are called "Euro sockets."

Various types of connectors

Sockets type “C” - plug connection without connecting a grounding conductor. Sockets of type "F" - the same, but with the connection of the grounding conductor.

On a 220 V network, euro outlets are used to connect electrical consumers with power up to 3.5 kW. The current passing through such outlets does not exceed a value of 16 A in the normal mode of operation of electrical appliances.

Socket with grounding contacts. Type "F"

When connecting high-power electrical equipment, industrial models of plug connections are used, rated for a current of 32 A and a voltage of 380 V.

Industrial socket

According to the frequency of alternating current, sockets can be designed for a frequency of 50 and 60 Hz. In the electricity networks of the CIS and Russia, alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz is used.

Another defining feature when choosing outlets is the type of installation of the outlet. There are two types:

• Outlets for outdoor installation. This type of outlet provides installation directly on the surface. Such sockets are made in the housing and do not require preliminary equipment of holes in the walls and other installation sites.
  

  Single execution

  External execution exists for double and more sockets.

  

  Group outlet
• Outlets for indoor installation. This type of outlet does not have a housing.Installation of the outlet for indoor installation involves the installation of holes in the wall and the installation of a special plastic box into which the outlet will be mounted. These outlets look more aesthetically pleasing in everyday life, but have a more time-consuming installation process.
  

  General view of the outlet

According to the degree of protection against moisture, sockets are waterproof. The international classification of such outlets is designated IP44 and higher. The socket of this design is equipped with a cover that protects the power contacts from moisture. Such outlets need to be installed in bathrooms and in the open air.

Waterproof design

There are also indoor outlets with integrated extension cords. This type of outlet is very practical, but requires specific installation conditions. Namely, the presence of sufficient space in the cavity of the wall to install a coil with a cable.

Socket with integrated extension cord

A few additional and very useful features of modern outlets:

• Socket with integrated residual current device. The consumer protects the device from failure due to malfunctions in the power supply network.
  

  Socket with integrated residual current circuit breaker

• Socket with integrated timer. This version of sockets allows you to adjust the time on and off the appliance by the appearance and disappearance of voltage on the power contacts of the socket. Such outlets are not used permanently, but have the design of an adapter in the main power outlet.
  

  Socket with integrated timer

  Also, sockets with timers can be in the form of a separate adapter module.

  

  Socket version - adapter module
• Socket with integrated power sensor. Such outlets are equipped with a special panel, which displays the indicator of power consumed by the appliance in kW. Additionally, the socket can be equipped with a diode backlight that changes color depending on the amount of power.
  

  Additional illumination

  Like sockets with a timer, sockets with a wattmeter can be in the form of an adapter module.

  

  Socket version - adapter module

• Socket equipped with a push button for the plug. Designed to facilitate the disconnection of the plug connection.
  

  Internal execution

• Socket equipped with LED backlight. This outlet is easier to find in the dark.
  

  Internal execution

Types of switches

Light switches for domestic use in apartments and houses are distinguished by the following criteria:

• Installation method;
• wire fastening;
• way to control the switch.

According to the installation method, light switches, like sockets, are of external and internal installation. Such switches are called hidden and outdoor, respectively. Hidden are installed in the wall with hidden wiring, and external are used for networks with open wiring. Sometimes external switches are used to facilitate the process and installation time. Outdoor circuit breakers are easier to maintain and repair. Hidden, in turn, have a more attractive aesthetic appearance, fit better into the interior of the premises.

Two-gang switch

Outdoor switch example.

Single key switch

According to the method of fastening the wires to the power terminals, the switches are divided into devices with a screw clamp of the conductor and devices with a quick-clamp mechanism for fixing the wires.

Screw fastening (left) Keyless fastening (right)

For fastening copper wires, it is recommended to use a quick-clamp mechanism, and for aluminum wiring, screw fastening is better.

The exposed aluminum wire is rapidly oxidized, so the contact area should be tightly pressed by the screw joint washer. The copper conductor is softer and less susceptible to oxidation.

The most extensive difference category of modern light switches is the control method.

According to the method of switching on and off, the switches are divided into the following types:

• Key switches
  

  Single key switch

  The principle of operation of such a switch is based on turning on the contacts mechanically using one or more rocker keys. Depending on the number of keys, the switch can control one or more lamps or even groups of lamps. This method of inclusion is the most common and most commonly used. The price of such switches is minimal, in comparison with models of another design.

• Push button switch.
  

  Internal execution

  Such switches make power on and off by pressing the same button. There are switches with several buttons. They are popular among the offers in the market.

• Dimmers
  

  Standard Dimmer Model

  Dimmers are light switches equipped with a light intensity control device. Such a device can be made using a wheel, buttons or even a touch panel.

  

  More modern dimmer model

  An example of the most modern performance. Dimmer with touch panel.

  

  One of the most modern developments

  The range of light intensity can be adjusted from 0 to 100%. Such switches are popular, but have a greater cost than standard models. The modern design of dimmers makes them in demand in the design of interiors of various subjects. By reducing the illumination, you can significantly save energy.

• Rotary switches.
  

  Industrial design

  Rotary switches are available in various designs.

  

  Classic performance

  Such switches do not have any additional functions. Turn lighting on and off by turning the control knob. Very popular in retro style interiors. They are mainly used for outdoor wiring, but there are also models of flush mounting. Easy to maintain, install and repair.

• Rope switches.
  

  Standard version

  This type of inclusion is used solely for design purposes. He does not add any functional practicality. Efficiency also does not change. Often, switches of this type of control are equipped with sconces and nightlights.

• Sensor switch.
  

  The most modern development

  Such switches are the most modern. They are equipped with a special touch panel, with which the lighting is controlled. Touch switches have a very wide variety of models with various additional functions (timer, backlight, motion sensors, indoor temperature and more). In the light switch market, touch switch models are the most expensive switch category. But despite the cost, they are also among the most sought after. Mainly due to its design, functionality and a long resource of working time.

• Acoustic switch.
  

  Sound Sensor Unit

  The principle of operation of such a switch is based on controlling the supply of electricity by including an audio sensor in the circuit. This sensor responds to certain sound signals, often pops. The undoubted advantage of such switches is that they do not need to be searched in the dark. Some cheap models may be of poor quality and may not work the first time.

• To a separate category include controlling the lighting of the room using the remote control. Such remotes are used in modern smart control systems for household electrical appliances. With its versatility, remote control has some unpleasant moments. For example, loss or breakage of the remote control.It is not always good when the management of all processes is concentrated in one device. To avoid unpleasant situations, remote control is done as additional to the main one.

A separate category of switches is walk-through. The switching mechanism in such switches allows you to control the supply of electricity to the consumer from two or more places.

Wiring diagram

Switches, like sockets, fall under the international IP classification system. The system regulates the performance of circuit breakers in varying degrees of protection against moisture and the ingress of solid particles on live parts. The designation of such switches starts with IP44 and higher.

Moisture-proof switches must be installed in rooms with high humidity: bathrooms, baths, saunas, as well as outdoors.

Outdoor version

How to choose a socket in the apartment

Efficient and safe operation largely depends on the correct choice of the outlet.

Choose an outlet according to the following criteria:

• Depending on the type of wiring. For open and hidden wiring, there are sockets of hidden and external performance. The most effective in installation and operation will be a socket selected for the appropriate type of wiring.
  
• Depending on the type of contact. For aluminum wiring, sockets with screw contacts are more suitable, and for copper wiring, it is preferable to use quick-clamp contacts of sockets, although this is not important.
  
• Depending on the material. For outdoor installation outdoors, only plastic sockets with covers are suitable. Outdoor installation in the room can be done with ceramic sockets, if it fits into the interior. It is enough to equip industrial premises with models made of carbolite and other materials that are not designed to form an interior, but only fulfill their main function.
  
• Depending on the level of protection. When choosing, it is necessary to take into account the local working conditions of electrical equipment (sockets). To facilitate orientation in various versions of electrical equipment, an international classification of IP protection has been developed. (mentioned above). For reference, a look-up table is provided. In this table, you can easily navigate the choice of the necessary degree of protection of electrical equipment, taking into account the working conditions in the place of its installation.
  

  Marking of electrical equipment according to the degree of protection against moisture ingress of solid particles on live parts

• How to choose a color. The color of the outlet must be selected exclusively in accordance with the interior of the room. No special color requirements exist.
  

To facilitate the selection, a comparative description of several of the most popular manufacturers (top -5) is given.

The information is provided for informational purposes only and is not an advertisement.

1. Schneider Electric. The products of this manufacturer are known for their undeniable quality and extensive assortment. It is noteworthy that the company occupies a leading position not only in the production of domestic electrical equipment, but also in the industrial equipment sector. The products of this company are used by professional installers, but it is suitable for beginners, because it has a simple but effective design. And also the products of this manufacturer are made with varying degrees of protection IP.
2. Kuntsevo-Electro. An example of high-quality electrical equipment from a domestic manufacturer. The products of this company are notable for their relatively low cost with decent quality of the materials used and the quality of assembly of products. Sockets are also available in a variety of IP configurations. The company's products are laureates of the award "100 best goods of Russia."
3. TDM electrician. The production facilities of this company are also located in Russia.The company is distinguished by the outstanding quality of its products. It has in its arsenal many modern developments of both sockets and other electrical equipment. Products comply with IP, ISO9000 standards. Sockets of this manufacturer are easy to install, maintain and repair. They have a standard set of modifications and are most widely represented on the market.
4. ABB. The products of the German manufacturer ABB (formerly Siemens) are also an example of build quality and product materials. Sockets of this company are distinguished by reliable fasteners, a standard, but modern design. Their price category is slightly higher than previous manufacturers, but the service life of ABB products is one of the highest among electrical products.
5. Legrand. This manufacturer offers electrical products of high quality and modern design. The company even produces many collections of electrical accessories for various interiors. At the same time, the requirements of IP and ISO9000 standards are observed in products of any design. The price category of such products is also higher than the market average. Despite the cost, the sockets of this manufacturer deserve an honorable place in any rating.

What to look for when buying a circuit breaker

The choice of switch for installation in any room should be made according to certain criteria. Only then will the work on its installation and operation be carried out correctly and safely.

Switch selection criteria:

• According to the installation method. Select switch for outdoor or indoor wiring. Sometimes outdoor switches are used for concealed wiring to speed up the installation process or for installation in specific conditions (for example, high humidity or outdoors).
• By the number of keys, buttons. Depends on the number of consumers controlled - one light source or group.
• According to local working conditions. The choice depends on the installation location, its features according to the requirements of the IP standard.
• For additional features. The choice is determined by the presence of the backlight, sound sensors, touch controls and more. Such a choice largely depends on the characteristics of the interior of the room.

To facilitate the process of choosing a circuit breaker for companies producing electrical products, several of the most popular companies are listed.

1. TDM electrician. As is the case with sockets, circuit breakers from this manufacturer have a wide range of designs and additional functions. Modern design and unconditional build quality make the company's products a leader among domestic manufacturers in this industry.
2. Rexant A manufacturer of electrical products from China. Despite the generally accepted opinion about the low quality of products from this country, this manufacturer is notable for the high-quality assembly of its products. The switches comply with the standards of the European class of electrical equipment, are reliable in operation, have a fairly serious working resource and many functional additions. The price of these switches is relatively low. They can be used in interiors of different directions.
3. Berker. German manufacturer of circuit breakers and other electrical products. A notable type of circuit breaker from this manufacturer is dimmers (circuit breakers with dimmers). Modern performance, thoughtful functional design and high quality products are the hallmarks of circuit breakers from this company.
4. Arlight. A company that specializes not only in the production of household light switches, but also in various modern developments. The main focus of this company is LED lighting of rooms and interior lighting of any complexity.High-quality circuit breakers, designed for specific values ​​of the mains voltage, are excellent for both professional installation and independent.
5. Legrand. The circuit breakers of this company (such as sockets and other equipment) comply with the requirements of European quality standards and protection systems. The assembly of products uses high-quality certified materials. The switches themselves are made in a modern design and design. Equipped with many functional additions: backlight, motion sensors and more.

Features of the choice of sockets and switches in the bathroom

The bathroom is a room with high humidity and the possibility of a direct hit of water jets on electrical appliances. The selection of switches and sockets in such rooms must be made taking into account their protected performance according to the IP standard.

Sockets and switches in this case must be labeled at least IP44.

An example of the appearance of a waterproof switch:

Waterproof design

An example of the appearance of a waterproof outlet.

Waterproof design

For a wooden house (log house), outdoor sockets are suitable. Such outlets are suitable for outdoor wiring (in wooden houses, wiring is performed externally for fire safety reasons). In this case, sockets and switches must be installed on socket boxes made of non-combustible material. All of the same fire safety considerations. Sockets can be made, for example, from PCB.

How to distinguish high-quality devices from low-quality

First of all, you should pay attention to the quality of assembly of the product. Contact connections must be made with high quality and look reliable. The housings of sockets and switches should not be deformed, without chips and cracks. The color of the cases should be uniform, without signs of heating and darkening. Fasteners should be included.

All products must be accompanied by a quality certificate and appropriate marking according to the IP protection system.

Many products carry IP marking directly on the chassis.

Do not try to choose the cheapest option for the product. The safety of people who are in close proximity to the appliance largely depends on the quality of the electrical product.

The market for electrical goods is filled with many offers of electrical products. Switches and sockets are one of the most sought-after products in this category. In order not to get confused and make the right decision when choosing them, you must always follow the above recommendations and objectively evaluate the functional features of the required product.