2021 ᐈ

Color options

Thanks to the wide range, buyers are faced with the problem of how to choose the color of sockets and switches in the interior. When choosing a shade, designers recommend focusing on the color of the wallpaper and the general style of the room:

minimalism and hi-tech will be complemented by original frames made of frosted light or dark glass or aluminum in gray, red or turquoise shades. Black switches look beautiful in the interior;
on walls made of untreated brick in loft rooms, in modern and retro rooms, rosettes made of frosted glass and metal (copper, bronze) would be appropriate;
for classic interiors, decorative items made from expensive materials are suitable: brass, bronze, silver, gilding;
for decorating a Provence , you can look for pink products; Country style will be complemented by objects made of natural wood.

Classic-looking products in neutral white and beige shades will fit into almost all interiors.

Retractable speakers and hatches

Unlike loft and grunge, in which visible wires and overhead sockets are even welcome, in bionic and eco-style it is recommended to hide all wiring so as not to disturb the “naturalness” of the design. In some cases, sockets with switches are also hidden. To do this, use built-in blocks with vertical (columns) or horizontal orientation (hatches). For example, it is more convenient to place a retractable column on a tabletop. It is enough to press a button on the top decorative panel, and a block with sockets rises from a special shaft. When you press the panel, it goes back down. Hatches are used to organize wiring and outputs on floors and walls. Their design requires a hinged lid.

The advantage of Legrand products is simple installation, easy replacement, the presence of individual decorative elements or electrical parts. The company produces both budget and premium models, not only for every taste, but also for every budget. The high level of quality and safety also adds advantages. No matter what trends are set by the current fashion - high-tech, rustic, romantic, baroque, bionic or country, the electrical installation products of the French brand will always look appropriate, thanks to the thoughtful design and variety of decorative frames. Therefore, if you suddenly get tired of the color scheme or want something fundamentally different, arthouse, you just need to choose the appropriate decor and voila - sockets and designer switches take on the desired look, becoming part of the new concept.

Designer sockets and switches with original shapes

Square and rectangular sockets in the interior acquire a stylish look thanks to expensive materials: leather, wood, stone. Decorative devices of round or oval shapes made of colored frosted glass look elegant and bright.

Switches (with rotary switches) made of porcelain and painted ceramics have a vintage look.

Operating principle of the switch

Every person knows what this device is intended for. If we consider in more detail, we can say that switches are electrical devices that perform functions to control lighting, which occurs due to the closing and opening of electrical circuits.

It is worth noting that when connecting such devices, you have the opportunity to connect other electrical appliances to them.

Let's take a closer look at the operation of the switch:

The design of this device provides for the presence of special keys that are responsible for controlling the moving contacts.
Each moving contact performs functions of closing or opening circuits. This occurs due to the connection of the moving contact with the stationary one.
The designs also provide special terminals to which electrical wires are connected.
Some manufacturers may add some decorative details to the designs. For example, connecting switches with lighting elements is quite popular among consumers.

It should be understood that this device has a high danger group, because it operates with a voltage of two hundred and twenty volts, which is very dangerous to human life and health.

Recommendations for each room

When planning the location of outlets and even their appearance, it is necessary to clearly understand the future functionality of each room. It is highly desirable when the owners already know in advance what types of headsets will be installed in the premises. And also what electrical appliances will work in them.

Kitchen

Each household appliance in this room must have its own outlet. And at least three of them must be placed above the tabletop level. Connection points for all stationary devices can be hidden.

And since it is strictly forbidden to use an extension cord for the refrigerator, the socket for it is placed according to the length of the cord.

For mobile devices (blender, mixer), as well as for those that are used occasionally (juicer, yogurt maker), open type sockets are needed. They need easy access and are best placed in the work area, in the kitchen apron. Moisture-resistant structures are given priority.

Bedroom

The main sockets and switches in the interior of the rest room must be located at the head of the bed. Here you need places to connect charging mobile devices and gadgets. Sockets for lighting equipment (sconces, floor lamps, table lamps) are also required.

Even if the bed is single, it is best if the switching devices are on both sides of it. In the case of a double bed, this condition is mandatory.

All other plugs and switches are distributed throughout the room in accordance with the zoning of the room. The boudoir is supplied in abundance with them. As well as a workplace if it is located in the bedroom. Very often, a master switch is installed near the bed, at arm's length. To turn off the lighting not only in this room, but throughout the entire house in one motion.

Children's

The room for a child should be equipped with electrical appliances to the bare minimum. This is required by basic security measures. And those switches and sockets that are absolutely necessary in the room should be hidden.

And it is best to purchase special products with protective valves or lids. Such sockets are also called children's sockets.

Corridors and halls

In these rooms, sockets are located in the European style, at the very bottom. They are needed to connect a vacuum cleaner, as well as for arranging decorative lighting. In the form of floor lamps.

Switching devices are mounted so that they are convenient to use, practically automatically extinguishing the light at the exit from the house. And turning it on immediately after opening the door. And for these purposes, a single master switch is best suited.

Bathroom

Gone are the days when it was strictly forbidden to use electrical appliances in the bathroom. True, even now you can get a fine from the fire inspectorate for an open socket in the bathroom. But back in Soviet times, the light in this room was turned on only from the corridor.

Modern standards do not prohibit placing any number of sockets in the bathroom. You just need to protect them from water. It is also an unspoken rule to install network connection points no lower than 15-20 cm from the floor. Because there is a risk of flooding in the room, in which the sockets will be flooded with water.

For the same reasons, attaching plugs near the water intake is prohibited. And they should be at least 60 cm away from the sink and bathtub. But it is better when it is increased to one meter.

As for quantity, a couple of low-cost ones will be enough for a washing machine and boiler. Two more will be needed for the razor and hair dryer. They can be placed on the upper level. And if the mirror requires lighting, then it is better to equip an additional hidden exit.

Living room

Since the room is very multifunctional, options for the location of network connections must be thought through in advance, even before installing the furniture. According to the standard design, it is enough to equip each wall with a pair of sockets. This is enough to connect a TV with a stereo system and all lighting devices.

But if there is a work area with a desk in the living room, then only for a desktop computer you will need at least six connectors. And this is not counting sockets for a table lamp and, for example, a fan. Moreover, you need to think about their location. For a PC, the European version is suitable, but for a laptop it is better to choose the Soviet one.

Switch installation

Before starting work, phase and zero are found in the distribution box using an indicator screwdriver, then the electricity is turned off.

All work is carried out in the absence of power supply.

Check the absence of voltage in the network using an indicator screwdriver.
The cable leads from the electrical panel or distribution box. At the installation site of the switch, a socket box is mounted into the wall.
To connect a single-key switch, a two-core cable is supplied; when installing a two-key switch, a three-wire cable is supplied.
The cable is laid in a grooved hole in the wall, the ends are inserted into the box and socket box. The excess is cut off and the ends of the wires are cleared of insulation using a knife.
Check the switch, tighten the fastening bolts.
At the top of the switch there is a terminal for fastening the phase, at the bottom - for fastening the zero. The phase is usually painted light brown or white, the ground is yellow-green, and the neutral is blue. The incoming core or phase from the distribution box goes to the switch, is fixed in it, and then is brought back into the box and supplied to the lighting device.
We insert the wire into the terminal and tighten it with a screw. We check the reliability of the connection. The strength and reliability of the connection will ensure good contact.
In the mounting box, the working mechanism is fixed using plastic spacers or self-tapping screws.
We align the edges, recessing the working mechanism so that only the protective housing remains on the surface. It should fit snugly against the wall, this will protect the internal parts from moisture and dust.
We attach the key and check its operation.
The wires in the junction box are connected by soldering or twisting. Any connection is insulated with electrical tape or a plastic terminal connector.
We connect the electricity.

If you doubt your abilities and have not had experience with installing electrical appliances before, it is better to contact a specialist. Electricity does not tolerate mistakes.

Exterior decor and interior styles

Let's consider the methods and techniques of external design of sockets and switches adopted in modern interior design.

It should be noted that when buying an outlet, you should immediately worry about how organically this product will fit into the interior of the apartment. It’s better to think through the shapes and sizes of the products in advance so that you can go to the store purposefully, clearly imagining the final design of your apartment. Otherwise, there is a risk of purchasing the wrong item.

According to the design of the case

The wide range of switches offered differs in appearance: standard white models are becoming a thing of the past, freeing up display cases for more fashionable options:

Stylized as wood, metal, stone;
Covered with reflectors;
Equipped with a special light indicator;
Having a certain structure, drawing, painting.

Here you need to focus only on your own taste and the existing interior. As a rule, design does not play a role in installation and operation.

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How to choose a socket for the most popular interior styles?

Country

If your house or apartment is decorated in that relaxed “country” style that values all things natural, we recommend purchasing models with an eco-friendly leather top covering. Leather can be either natural or artificial.

Minimalism

This interior style is found very often in the design of modern housing. Laconic products in dark shades are ideal for it: gray, black, beige. The shape of sockets and switches is square with rounded corners.

High tech

This modern design can be complemented by models with chrome finish or tempered glass, transparent. Touch-sensitive high-tech switches will also fit perfectly into the high-tech style.

Modern

Bright products with a strict geometric shape will fit perfectly into an Art Nouveau interior. The color spectrum is wide: red, yellow and green triangles, squares and circles will suit the yard in such a home.

Loft

This American style, implying large, deliberately rough spaces, is becoming popular in the megacities of our country. Sockets and switches in the loft interior should be made of thick frosted glass, reminiscent of an industrial finish.

Models finished with colored glass and metal will also look quite harmonious.

Ethnic

stylized to resemble the following materials will best fit into it

cherry;
dark mahogany;
light maple wood.

In addition, the ethnic style implies various paintings and ornaments, so the sockets in the ethnic interior can be decorated with similar decor. Including ceramic and wood models.

Empire, Baroque, Rococo

These historical styles imply luxury, wealth, chic and beauty, therefore they love everything pompous, flashy, reminiscent of the design of palaces. The design of sockets and switches should also not lag behind the overall splendor, so in this case you can use gilded models decorated with rhinestones, stones, elegant decor, and ornaments.

Retro

This interior style implies rounded shapes and fairly large sizes, so the sockets in this case should be decent in size: round, square or rectangular.

The switches are designed accordingly and have characteristic small keys. The color of the rosettes is neutral, often dull, vintage, with a worn effect.

Switching methods used in switches

Switches are divided according to the switching method: screw or screwless terminals.

Screw clamp

Suitable for aluminum wires. In this case, switching is ensured using special clamps that are secured with screws. The screw method is difficult to install, but the contact is better. When the connection is loosened, the screw is tightened.

Spring contact

For such a connection, in addition to the screws, a contact plate is used, which creates a reliable, strong connection. Installation of such a connection is simple. The disadvantage of devices with a spring contact is that it is important to clamp the wire correctly, otherwise the device will not work correctly. Used for copper wiring.

How to choose an outlet

Numerous characteristics and installation methods must be taken into account when choosing products for certain premises, for specific equipment.

By voltage

The main parameters by which you need to select a device are the current and voltage of electrical appliances. Previously, almost all products were produced with a current of 6A and a voltage of 220-230V. And if such an outlet was used to connect several devices, then fire and melting of the housing often occurred.

In modern apartments, the number of household appliances has increased significantly, and the technical characteristics of the devices have changed. Therefore, manufacturers began to produce more powerful sockets. It is recommended to install products designed for a current of 10 or 16A.

By number of seats

Sometimes it is advisable to mount a socket block at one point. The number of “seats” can vary from two to four. It is advisable to place such models near work tables, on the wall behind the TV or in the work area in the kitchen.

By mounting method

The choice of installation method for the outlet is determined not only by the style of the interior, but depends primarily on the wiring installation option:

When installing hidden wiring, an internal (hidden) outlet is installed. In this case, the core of the products is hidden in the wall, and only a special overlay is left on top;
The overhead model goes well with open-type wiring. To make the product look aesthetically pleasing, manufacturers produce sockets in various beautiful shades with a minimalist design. You need to carefully choose the location so that no one touches the protruding body.

If there is a need to install an outlet near the baseboard or in the floor, then floor installation is used. You can install a retractable device in an apartment or private house. Naturally, the electrical wiring is hidden in the floor. An original idea is to arrange a similar outlet in the kitchen countertop.

By connector

Many countries use sockets with different plugs. About 15 types are known. Naturally, when purchasing equipment today, you must first of all pay attention to the shape of the fork (in addition to the performance characteristics).

Manufacturers have taken into account possible difficulties and therefore there are all kinds of adapters on sale that solve the problem of matching plugs and connectors.

How to properly arrange sockets in an apartment

Of course, extension cords make using equipment easier. However, the wires get tangled underfoot, spoil the appearance of the apartment, and can be damaged by animals. Ideally, each electrical appliance should be connected separately. You can roughly calculate the required number of points:

in the corridor 5-6 sockets will be useful for connecting routers, telephones, and intercoms;
in the living room you will need about 10 (2-3 points near the soft area, for a TV, audio system, 2-3 for floor lamps, an aquarium);
in the bedroom, two residents will be comfortable using 6-8 points (for connecting gadgets, lamps, electronic alarm clocks);
in the office they usually connect gadgets, a table lamp, a laptop or system unit, a monitor, speakers, and a printer. In general, 6-7 sockets are installed;
in the kitchen you will need 9-10 points for small and large household appliances;
A boiler and a washing machine are usually installed in the bathroom. They use hair dryers and electric shavers. You will need 5-6 points.

In total, 47-50 sockets are installed in a large apartment. This also takes into account equipment that is periodically used throughout the home - a vacuum cleaner, an air humidifier, an ionizer.

When choosing an ergonomic location for installing an outlet in any room, first of all determine the height of the location relative to the floor level and the distance from the door. As a rule, devices are mounted no lower than 30 cm and no closer than 10 cm. In a children's room it is recommended to install them higher than one and a half meters.

Modern electrical fittings are distinguished by a combination of several functions. The operation of various household appliances and gadgets began to be ensured by high-tech devices, which at the same time play an important decorative role in the interior. Sometimes it’s even difficult to decide what to give preference to: sophisticated design or “smart” functions.

Modern models of sockets and switches

The functions of familiar devices have expanded significantly thanks to technology. And already familiar sockets and switches become important elements of the “smart home” system.

USB sockets

Such devices are increasingly in demand, since you don’t need a lot of wires or removable power supplies to connect gadgets - all you need is a USB cable. Important advantages:

the device is compact, functional and located in a specific location;
Can be installed in place of a regular outlet. Replacement takes literally half an hour.

Moreover, when charging a tablet or smartphone, the main outlet remains free.

Sockets with timer

Devices equipped with timers of various types are in increasing demand. The time interval for the socket operation is set by an electronic timer (there are buttons and a display) or by a traditional rotary mechanism.

As an option, a timer allows you to program the time to turn on a fan or street lighting, which provides comfort and helps save energy.

Remote control switch

This device allows you to control both single lighting fixtures and entire systems. Thanks to the remote control, it is easy, while in the same room, to simultaneously turn on or off the lights in different rooms. This is especially convenient in large apartments where there is multi-level lighting, or in multi-storey private houses.

Infrared, ultrasonic, radio frequency and other devices are used to control switches. The range ranges from 20 to 500 m.

Switches with built-in motion sensor

Such devices bring comfort to everyday life and ensure rational use of electricity. The principle of operation of the switch is to detect movement at a certain distance from the sensors. Numerous devices can be classified according to the control method, installation features, operating principle, and functionality.

Motion-activated devices must be placed taking into account the area of good visibility. All kinds of obstacles (cornices, curtains, hanging structures) can affect the operation of the devices.

By material

Devices are also divided according to the material they are made of. There are only three options here:

Ebonite;
Fiberglass;
Plastic.

The first two are rare; basically all houses are equipped with plastic switches. The internal filling also varies, which can be ceramic, plastic or made of metal.

Knowing how to choose a light switch, it is more difficult to make a mistake and purchase the wrong model. This way you can kill two birds with one stone: gain experience and save money.

Adjustment to the interior of the room

When buying a switching device, you need to visualize how it will fit into the interior. It is extremely important that its appearance and colors do not stand out from the general style of the room. Otherwise, the impression of the room will be spoiled.

Let's look at the recommendations for choosing for each style:

Country. Rustic design requires simplicity as well as naturalness. Therefore, the plastic of the switch can be disguised with a leather covering. It may even be artificial.
Minimalism. Square designs with rounded edges are ideal for the most modest of modern styles. As for color, the priority is grey, black and white.
High tech. Style loves chrome and glass. Therefore, transparent switches will fit perfectly into the environment. But the design also emphasizes everything new in technology. And touch devices will easily find their place.
Modern. A bright style requires extraordinary colors, but enclosed in a strict geometric shape. Therefore, green triangles, red squares and yellow circles will be in place.
Loft. One of the most interesting and popular styles requires deliberate roughness. Therefore, a good solution would be to use devices that imitate industrial ones in the interior. Switches and toggle switches made of metal fit best into industrial design.
Ethnic. This requires complete naturalness, which is best emphasized by wood. Such as cherry, light maple and dark mahogany. Also, ornaments and patterns are not alien to the style.
From Empire to Rococo. All trends reflecting historical eras require luxury and pomp. Therefore, the color scheme should only be gold. And if the device is decorated with rhinestones and appropriate painting, then the interior will only benefit.
Retro. The style loves large sizes and rounded shapes. In addition, vintage is a must. And it can be achieved with a worn effect. The color of sockets and switches should be neutral.

Experts do not recommend making switchgear accents unless the style requires it. Since these items are more practical in nature, often the best solution is to simply disguise them. For example, make it the same color as the wall.

Interior in techno style

For those who prefer high-tech, we can recommend ultra-modern AtlasDesign products, which harmonize perfectly with metal, brick, concrete and glass surfaces. The line includes models in the colors “steel”, “aluminum”, “pearl”, “carbon”, “slate”. There are also classic white and beige. And for lovers of exquisite design, “champagne” and “mocha” with a noble satin tint have been developed.

But design is not the only thing that AtlasDesign can interest those who prefer techno style. Electrical installation products allow you to implement complex and non-standard solutions. For example, if you need to control several groups of light from one point, you can purchase three-key switches. For the kitchen work area, waterproof sockets or ultra-flat models with sliding lids are ideal. Moreover, the range includes the entire set of sockets and connectors necessary to equip low-current information networks: built-in USB charging, audio socket, TV socket, RJ45 computer socket and even a double TV + computer RJ45 socket.

Material

Let's look at what materials modern sockets are made from.

Plastic. The most popular and practical material for such products. Plastic models are very convenient and inexpensive.

Metal. These options are ideal for apartments decorated in modern styles: minimalism, hi-tech, loft.

Stone. Models made from this natural material will organically fit into “natural” styles: country, ethnic, rustic.

Tree. Products made from this natural, eco-friendly material will fit perfectly into simple, uncomplicated styles that are close to natural.

Glass. Elegant glass models look great in modern interiors. They can truly decorate a home, sometimes becoming almost works of art. You can choose glass rosettes decorated with beautiful decor and rhinestones.

Nowadays, in the wake of the general passion for “green” design, the design of outlets is not left aside. So, designers have already come up with a unique way of decorating them with stylized mosses, lichens, and green grass. It looks, of course, unusual, but it can decorate the now fashionable “eco-living” space.

Vanguard

Let's imagine a house as an art object, each room of which has its own design. Different colors, different wallpapers, different decorations, etc. Selecting electrical installation products for such interior works of art is not an easy task. The AtlasDesign Art line will help here, in which the frame and switch key are equipped with a transparent plastic cover. You can put anything under it - wallpaper, thin fabric, a photo of family members or a picture of your favorite character - and achieve the perfect combination of colors and art objects.

AtlasDesign Art line

As an advertisement

Adviсe

If you are choosing a product for a children's room, opt for bright models in cheerful colors, and do not forget about the plugs for them. Modern manufacturers also produce special options designed specifically for children. Such products are safe and have built-in curtain protection from inquisitive fingers.

If you want the design of sockets and switches to match the individual style of your apartment, you can decorate them to your own taste. Now on sale there are all kinds of stencils for painting, various stickers, and other devices for decoration.

If you need an outlet for the bathroom or kitchen, we recommend choosing models with moisture protection. The fact that the product has such protection is indicated by a special marker on its packaging.

If you want to control the flow of electricity into your home, choose an option with a timer. It allows you to adjust the time during which the outlet will operate.

Switch designation

A switch is a switching device designed to control lighting fixtures in the house. When it is turned on and off, the electrical circuit is closed or opened. Accordingly, when the switch is turned on, voltage is supplied to the lamp through a closed circuit, and it lights up. Conversely, if the switch is turned off, the electrical circuit is broken, the voltage does not reach the light bulb, and it does not light.

The designation of switches in the drawings is made by a circle with a dash at the top:

As you can see, the dash also has a small hook at the end. This means that the switching device is single-key. The designation of a two-key and three-key switch will have two and three hooks, respectively:

Similar to sockets, switches can be external or internal. All of the above designations refer to devices for open (or outdoor) installation, that is, when they are mounted on a wall surface.

The hidden (or internal) installation switch in the diagram is indicated in exactly the same way, only with hooks directed in both directions:

Switches intended for installation outdoors or in rooms with high humidity have a certain degree of protection, which is marked in the same way as sockets - IP 44-55. In the diagrams, such switches are depicted with a circle filled in black inside:

Sometimes you can see on the diagram an image of a switch, in which the lines with hooks from the circle are directed in two opposite directions, as if in a mirror image. This is how a switch is designated, or, as it is otherwise called, a pass-through switch.

These switching devices are connected according to a special circuit and make it possible to control the same lighting device from different places (their use is very convenient in long corridors, on flights of stairs).

They also come in two-key or three-key types:

Switch: what is it for?

A switch is a switching device that is responsible for closing/opening the electrical circuit that powers the lighting fixture. It is always installed in the area where the phase wire breaks.

You cannot trust illiterate “electricians” who claim that neutral and phase wires must be connected to the switch. This will cause a short circuit and wiring problems.

Household models of switches are designed to work with wiring that uses a standard load. They cannot be connected to a network with other parameters. Each of the switches can only operate with a certain operating voltage and current. These parameters are always indicated in the technical documentation and on the device body.

The main task of the device is to provide power to the electrical device and stop it when there is no need to use the lamp. Switches are available in a wide variety of designs. They differ significantly from each other in a number of ways. Let's take a closer look at these differences.

A standard switch is connected to the area where the phase wire is broken. The purpose of the device is to close or open an electrical circuit, thereby turning on the lighting fixture

Switch installation method

According to installation, there are external (surface) and internal switches.
External switches are installed for open wiring or when it is impossible to install an internal switch. Mount on a wall or other flat surface. Advantages:

ease of installation;
reliability;
functionality.

Internal switches are recessed into the wall and are used for hidden installation. Currently, this type of switches is popular for apartments and houses. Installation is more complicated than for overhead devices, but the appearance is more aesthetic.