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 every residential or utility room, ready to move in, 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 in free access and did not spoil the aesthetics of the selected functional area.
In addition to the necessary power sources, 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 it is necessary to install 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 dining area. 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 personal computer and monitor, additional devices such as a printer, scanner or speaker system.
Children's or play room. For these rooms, power sources with specialized protection are selected; they must be located 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 general concept designing 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
Sockets and switches should be easy to use and look harmonious in the interior. Prostocomfort will tell you how to choose them correctly.
Thanks to new materials, which are used in the manufacture of electrical accessories, today they have become independent elements of the interior, which are selected not only according to operational and technical characteristics, but also according to external features.
Series of electrical accessories products white, made of plastic, in modern style. Source: VIKO product catalogue.
Modern sockets, switches and other electrical accessories are designed according to modular principle. Various series of electrical accessories and their decorative elements can be changed without dismantling the mechanisms from the building structures.
Source: MAKEL product catalog.
Modular socket design:
- Decorative panel;
- Color insert;
- Decorative frame;
- Mounting panel;
- Mounting hole;
- Mechanism.
Electrical installation products created in the same style are combined into series. Products of the same series are similar to each other in the form of decorative elements, color and material from which they are made.
In design modern products electrical accessories are dominated by three styles:
- classic: decorative frames and panels are made in the form of a circle or rectangle containing figured decorations; instead of a button in switches it is often used swivel mechanism;
Merten series of sockets and switches classic style, source http://ias.kiev.ua
Surface-mounted switch in classic style. Source: ias.kiev.ua.
- modern: the decorative frame, panel and switch key are shaped like a square (rectangle), often with rounded corners;
An Art Nouveau style switch with decorative elements made of wood. Source: Gunsan Product Catalog.
- hi-tech: technocratic appearance.
High-tech style socket block. Source: Makel product catalog.
The following materials can be used for the manufacture of decorative elements of electrical accessories:
- plastic (most often ABS plastic), the most affordable and most common material;
- metal (primarily aluminum) or metallized plastic;
Art Nouveau style switch with decorative painted aluminum frame. Source: ias.kiev.ua.
- glass (tempered, impact-resistant) frosted or colored opaque;
Switches in Art Nouveau style with decorative frames made of frosted and colored glass. Source: Makel product catalog.
- natural or artificial stones;
Switches in the Art Nouveau style, in which the decorative frames are made of natural stone. Source: Makel product catalog.
- tree valuable species, treated to improve fire resistance;
Switch in Art Nouveau style, decorated with a decorative frame made of pine wood. Source: ias.kiev.ua.
- Genuine Leather.
Switch, decorative frame made of genuine leather, source http://ias.kiev.ua
The wide variety of materials used allows you to choose sockets and switches to suit any style (from empire and retro to modern fusion and techno).
Decorative frames of electrical accessories can have multi-colored removable elements (inserts, corners, etc.), which help to match the products to the interior. There are series in which decorative elements depicts drawings or photographs. Most often these are sockets and switches intended for children's rooms.
Switches in Art Nouveau style depicting popular cartoon characters. Source: Mutlusan electric product catalog
To ensure that sockets and switches fit harmoniously into the interior, we recommend using the following rules.
1. When choosing the color of electrical accessories, you should consider:
- white color and its shades are in harmony in combination with any color;
- black is very pretentious and requires a very precise selection of colors in the interior, but it always goes harmoniously with white;
- for all other colors it is best to select harmonious combinations one of existing systems, which are used by designers and artists, for example, according to the twelve-part color wheel Itten;
- an intuitive approach to choosing the color of electrical accessories based on the principle of “like it or not” is also quite acceptable if you do it for yourself.
2. The style of electrical accessories completely depends on the style of the premises, therefore:
- the classic style of sockets and switches impresses with arched openings, vaulted ceilings and classic furniture;
- sockets and switches in the Art Nouveau style are suitable for rectangular rooms with an interior dominated by modern furniture, devoid of ornate forms and decorations;
- The high-tech style in electrical accessories is acceptable exclusively in a “high-tech” interior;
High-tech electrical accessories in a high-tech style interior.
It is impossible to imagine a room without switches and sockets. In a modern interior, sockets and switches can be something like fashion accessory. This is what forces manufacturers to pay great attention not only to the quality of their products, but also to develop new designs. As a result, everyone can choose electrical accessories to match the chosen interior style of the room. It can be easy to get confused when choosing from a huge selection, so it’s worth considering the design of sockets and switches before you go shopping.
IN modern world many things are different from those that were fashionable some 10 years ago. The same applies to sockets with switches. It’s worth starting with the fact that they differ in the type of installation, and there are:
- Built-in.
- Invoices.
And they differ in functionality. Among them are:
- dustproof;
- moisture-proof;
- on remote control.
In addition, it is also worth noting that overhead options can be outdoor or indoor. To install street lighting, you should use only the first option, since it has more high performance and protective functions.
The design of switches can also be varied, depending on the number of keys: one-, two- and three-key. Switches are classified according to their shape:
- rectangular;
- square;
- round;
- oval;
- designer
For convenience, consider backlit options, they have built-in LEDs different colors. This is especially true in the interior of children's rooms: children can easily navigate and find the switch even in complete darkness.
Pay attention! IN modern interiors use remote-controlled systems that are regulated using a remote control.
Trendy electrical accessories
Undoubtedly, quality plays a key role when choosing any product, but fashion dictates its own rules, and design is now also important. When purchasing switches and sockets, you need to pay attention to their decorative effect and harmonious integration into the interior of the apartment. Both the first and second should become a logical conclusion to the room, as well as be comfortable and practical.
Let's consider the most common options for electrical accessories housings, depending on the given style.
To make sockets and switches in country styles and discreet minimalism, natural or artificial leather is used.
Modern minimalism or hi-tech are complemented by original multi-colored frames (green, red and blue). They are made of thick frosted glass and aluminum. Also worth mentioning here are touch switches – an innovative technology.
In the loft you can also consider models made of frosted glass, but colored glass and metal are more appropriate.
For ethno style, designers suggest exploring the assortment made from natural wood, For example:
- dark mahogany;
- cherries;
- light maple.
Eat special series, which refers to the styles of the late 19th century - the rotary mechanism of the switches can be designed:
- painting;
- ceramics;
- wood of different species.
For sockets and switches in Baroque and Empire styles, the task of which is to emphasize wealth and luxury, expensive materials are used. Brass, bronze and gilding will harmoniously fit into the bedroom, office or living room.
In general, the materials for making sockets and switches can be:
- plastic;
- metal;
- stone;
- tree;
- glass and so on.
The design can also be very diverse.
Do not forget that the selected model must be installed correctly. Many manufacturers have decided to simplify the solution to this problem and include installation instructions with their products, which allows you to do the work yourself, without the involvement of specialists.
When choosing electrical accessories, you must follow important rule: it should not become the center of the room’s interior; it is more correct to harmoniously fit it into the overall style.
The first problem that arises when installing sockets and switches is the correct calculation of the height relative to the floor level. It is worth noting that this criterion is calculated for each room in individually, for example, in the living room it can be any, but in the kitchen it can be away from moisture and high temperatures, that is, the working surface.
It is believed that the socket should be placed at a height of 1 m, but this figure may vary depending on the location and dimensions of the furniture or equipment. In rooms with high humidity Installation near a bathtub, shower stall and sink is prohibited.
Pay attention! In children's rooms, sockets must have plugs. This precaution will protect children from accidents. Installation should be carried out at a height of more than one and a half meters.
When choosing a place to place switches, you should not adhere to stereotypes; you must follow the requirements of ergonomics:
- The best option is considered to be a zone 10 cm from the doorway on the side of the door handle.
- The height should be selected in accordance with the level of the hand lowered down (according to the floor level, this is about 85 cm).
- When installing switches in the kitchen or bathroom, you should follow the same recommendations as in the case of sockets.
Pay attention! When installing electrical accessories, it is important to follow safety rules. If you do not have such skills, it is better to seek help from professional electricians.
Ecodesign
IN lately Eco-friendly design – the use of natural materials – is very popular. Manufacturers of sockets and switches also decided to use it to design their products. Combination electrical appliances and living plants turned out to be quite real. For this we use:
- lichens.
This design will be an excellent addition to the bathroom or kitchen, as required quantity they will take moisture from the air. But, nevertheless, this option is quite dangerous for families with children, so if you are an ardent fan of nature, you should consider options with a dried herbarium.
Modern electrical accessories are not just utilitarian devices, but also important decorative components that are included in the interior. For many years, classic white models have been considered the most popular, but if you want to purchase something original and unusual, explore all the options modern switches and sockets.
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 on the appearance of the room. Sockets and switches play a significant role in the interior, giving it completeness.
Main types of switches and sockets
Waterproof sockets and switches Suitable for use in wet areas– bathrooms, saunas, etc. Such products are marked IEC 529-89 and comply with GOST 14254-96. This means that splashing water will not cause damage normal functioning 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 are usually one- or two-key, less often – three-key. Some manufacturers also produce products with a large number 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 turned on (this is convenient if the switched on light bulb is located behind 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 in opposite end corridor, turns off the light. Heading to the opposite side, 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 home" 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 basis of management lighting fixtures the ideology of light scenarios is based. 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 of a square frame are 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.). It is impact resistant, UV resistant and atmospheric influences 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. Wide selection different lines and shapes allows you to choose ideal option for any style - empire, modern, baroque, country, high-tech, etc. Such series often include maximum quantity functional elements: sockets and switches for rooms, bathrooms, offices, etc. Devices of the same series combine color, a characteristic silhouette, and the materials used. Telecommunications 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 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. Creating stylish interior, experiment with the colors and shapes of these products, just make sure that they do not stand out from the general style interior For example, if the apartment has shiny chrome door hardware 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 thank Natalya Shatravka, director regional office"Ural" LLC "Vessen" (Krasnoarmeyskaya str., 92a, office 506, tel. 356-57-01). Material prepared by Vera Yakovleva 
