To ensure optimal placement of electrical installation devices in the room, it is advisable to know the exact dimensions of the outlet. The design consists of a contact block, a socket box and a decorative frame, so you need to take into account not only the overall dimensions of the product, but also the size of all its components. From this article you can learn about the typical and most common sizes of sockets, as well as the standards that are used when installing them.
The sizes of sockets from different manufacturers can vary significantly
- 1 General characteristics and dimensions of the socket according to standard 1.1 Typical dimensions of recessed sockets in the wall
- 1.2 Technical characteristics of sockets: network voltage standard
- 1.3 Dimensions of standard plug-type sockets
- 2.1 Dimensional grid and features of Legrand sockets
- 3.1 Differences between domestic models and European standard sockets
Recommendations for selection
Modern technologies make it possible to lay an electrical cable quickly, step-by-step guides help to cope with difficulties, but it is still recommended to familiarize yourself with the main rules for carrying out the work.
A socket box for plasterboard is a gasket between the wall and the socket for stable fixation of the electrical connector. It is done before installing the socket. The absence of such a device leads to rapid loosening of the fastenings, deformation of the finishing material and the impossibility of further operation, since the socket will simply fall out.
Modern devices have additional fasteners with which they can “catch” to the mounting surface, providing optimal fixation of the connector.
Since gypsum plasterboard is a flammable material (but there are exceptions), devices are selected based on fire safety rules. When purchasing, experts recommend paying attention to:
- Material of manufacture: must be self-extinguishing plastic. If the outlet gets hot, the heat won't be able to transfer to the drywall. This will help prevent short circuits.
- Individual sizes, when the distance between the wall and the covering is small. If the width is standard, you can purchase models of standard sizes with a depth of 50 cm.
Height of TV sockets on the wall
In the hall or living room, TV is most often watched while sitting on the sofa or in an armchair. For the average person, about 175 cm tall, it is most convenient to place the TV at a height of 120 cm from the floor to the center of the screen. Sockets are made behind the TV, along its vertical axis, closer to its upper edge. The specific installation height of the socket depends on the diagonal of the TV. We also bring out the antenna cable here.
Installation of socket boxes
After the tool and the hole itself are ready, installation work begins. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the electrical wiring plan, taking into account the arrangement and overall dimensions of the furniture. It is better to spend a little time and get the necessary information than to redo everything later.
If there is no special crown, then the holes are carefully drilled or cut out using a very sharp knife.
Step-by-step instruction
During the installation process, you should follow the sequence. The step-by-step process can be described as follows:
- Connect the required cables to the holes made.
- The tool is inserted and secured, the “legs” are placed perpendicular to the product and the screws are slowly tightened. When resistance appears, turn it another half turn, this will be enough.
- The installation site must be puttied. This point is important, you should not ignore it, because putty will significantly strengthen the location of the electrical connector.
Standards and requirements
During operation, all distances are measured based on where the connector will be located and what tasks it should perform. However, it is customary to use certain standards:
- 30 cm from the floor (indoors);
- 100 cm for bathrooms (usually located above the washing machine);
- 120 cm in the kitchen (mostly placed above furniture).
The specified values cannot be considered mandatory, because homeowners base their own needs, but through these standards it is possible to optimize the internal space.
You can correctly install sockets in gypsum boards using socket boxes. They help make your home as safe as possible.
During major repairs, it is often necessary to change the wiring of switches and sockets. An important role is played by the socket boxes into which these parts are installed. The correct choice of model and size determines how the electrical sockets will hold and perform their function.
Shape and color
What color should frames and sockets with switches be? How to choose them so that they match correctly with the color of the wallpaper and walls?
Mistake #3
Do not buy elaborate models with all sorts of curls, flowers, etc.
For an ordinary apartment with a light modern style, sockets and switches with the simplest possible shapes are ideal. As the Germans say: kvadraktish, praktish, gud
