Three-pole plug socket: device, classification, installation for hidden and outdoor wiring

The three-pole socket outlet is one of the most popular types of designs. It is designed to connect various electrical devices to the network. This device is very easy to install and fulfills the intended duties with high quality. With proper operation, such an outlet can last a fairly long period and become an indispensable assistant.

Socket device

Before proceeding with the selection and installation, it is necessary to study what a three-pole outlet is. This is a fairly simple device that has several distinctive characteristics compared to other types. Sockets are made up of 3 main elements:

1. Frame. This structural part consists of a bezel and a frame. The main task of the socket element is to protect people from accidental contact with contacts and electric shock. In addition, the body often serves as a decorative function. Manufacturers began to produce original models that ideally fit the style of the interior. This part can be manufactured with one or two cavities. If you need to install a paired outlet, it is best to choose devices with a plastic core and combine them into a common frame. The front panel is made of heat-resistant plastic that resists damage well. Some modern models are equipped with additional elements: a button, a protective cover, curtains and backlighting.
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2. Block. This is the most important structural detail that helps to hold the contacts with the cover. It can be made of ceramics or carbolite. When using the first material, you need to be prepared for frequent breakage of the pads. This is due to the fragility of the ceramic and its low strength. The second option is more robust, but it is rather rare in modern devices. The block is used for mounting open and closed sockets.
3. Contact. This element of the device acts as a power source. Thanks to him, there is a continuous supply of electricity to household appliances. The amount of current that passes through the contacts can vary from 10 to 16 amperes. With the help of special clamps, one of the contacts is connected to the conductor, and the other to the plug of the electrical appliance. These parts of the socket are made of various metal alloys with high elasticity. Because of this, a reliable connection is achieved between the contacts of the device and the plug.

Classification options

The socket outlet is available in various forms.

They all differ from each other and are classified according to certain parameters. This allows consumers to narrow down their search for the right model and buy the most suitable option for them.

According to the used wiring diagram

This parameter is considered one of the main ones and divides all sockets into 2 types. Both provide a safe and reliable electrical connection.

The following types of devices are distinguished:

1. Three-pole. These sockets are used only in cases where there is a possibility of connecting to ground. It is attached using a separate contact. The holes for the pins in the plug are positioned slightly lower than the grounding holes. Thanks to this, three-pole devices are ideal for connecting an electric stove, air conditioner and other household appliances.
2. No grounding. Unlike three-pole ones, they have only 2 contacts and are intended for the corresponding wiring. At the same time, it should not have a special grounding contact. Sockets without grounding are installed in old buildings where the old wiring has never been replaced with a new one. These devices are much cheaper than three-pole devices, but they do not provide an opportunity to additionally protect themselves and the equipment used.

Depending on the type of construction

According to this characteristic, two types of sockets are also distinguished. They are used for various ways of conducting electrical cables (outdoor and hidden).

There are such types of products:

1. For outdoor installation. This option is only used when laying open wiring. The structure is attached to the wall surface using a non-recessed socket. It is based on a plastic housing that protects the owner of the premises from all electrical hazards. Modern outdoor sockets are equipped with an additional protective cover and lighting. More expensive models may also include a sleep timer.
2. With hidden wiring. The flush-type receptacle is used to conduct internal electricity. The body of such a device is located in a special junction box, and all the wires are embedded in the wall of the room. Thanks to this feature, the absence of protruding parts of the structure is achieved and free space is saved. The plug is pressed against the contacts with a spring washer. One end of it reaches the stop, and the other - the body.

According to the degree of protection against moisture

All devices that are used to connect to electric current must be protected from moisture. Otherwise, there is a high probability of a short circuit.

According to the indicator of moisture resistance sockets are divided into the following categories:

1. Semi-hermetic. These simple devices are protected from water ingress only by the housing. Therefore, they are best used in rooms with low humidity or no chance of moisture ingress. These sockets can be installed in bedrooms, living rooms, corridors and other dry rooms.
2. Waterproof. Such devices are installed in those buildings and structures where there is a possibility of high humidity (sauna, bath, bathroom). In such outlets, a special membrane is provided, which performs a protective function and protects the contacts from moisture. In addition, dense and durable rubber rings can be used. There are special grooves on the body of the device through which condensate or trapped water flows. This allows most of the liquid to be removed and simplifies the work of the protective membrane. Waterproof sockets are mounted externally only.

Self-assembly

Installing 3-pole receptacles is simple but time-consuming. You can do the work yourself only if you have the necessary knowledge and experience.

If there is no one hundred percent confidence in the success of the process, then it is better to contact a qualified specialist. This will not only help to properly install the structure, but also reduce the likelihood of serious injury.

Outdoor way

This is the easiest installation method that you can easily do with your own hands. For successful completion, you must clearly follow the sequence of actions and not skip a single stage.

Work order:

1. The electricity supply is cut off in the room.
2. Then the markings are made on the wall. This is done according to a previously thought out and drawn up drawing.
3. After that, the socket is taken and carefully disassembled. All bolts are unscrewed, and the top cover is removed.
4. Holes are drilled in the wall. The easiest way to accomplish this is with a cordless drill.
5. The base is matched to the markings and screwed on.
6. In the next step, an electrical cable is drawn from the switchboard to the device.
7. It is attached to the wall using special purchased or homemade brackets.
8. The stretched wire is connected to the socket.
9. At the very end, the body is installed and tightened with bolts.
10. Once the installation is complete, electricity is turned on and the outlet is tested for functionality.

Recessed option

This installation method is much more difficult, as it requires a lot of time and effort. During work, it is important not only to correctly connect the structure, but also to hide it in the wall with high quality.

The installation process consists of the following steps:

1. Electricity is cut off in an apartment, office or private house.
2. A diagram of the location of one or more sockets is developed, and the corresponding markings are applied to the wall.
3. A hole is made in the wall into which the socket box will be hidden. This work is best done with a hammer and chisel.
4. The edges and walls of the "fossa" are carefully aligned.
5. The wiring is passed through special holes at the bottom of the socket box.
6. The box is installed in the embossed part of the wall and fixed there with plaster, gypsum glue or any other construction mixture.
7. After that, the structure is left until the material is completely dry.
8. As soon as this has happened, the excess part of the frozen composition is removed, and the surface of the wall is leveled.
9. The wire is fixed with a bracket. This simple operation will help speed up subsequent steps.
10. Cut off about 2 centimeters of the insulation layer from the protruding ends of the cable.
11. A grounding contact is attached to the block, as well as a neutral and phase wire.
12. The cable is fixed with a spring method.
13. The excess part of the wire is neatly twisted, insulated and hidden in the box.
14. It is attached using small spreading legs and tightened with side screws.
15. The socket housing is mounted and the device takes on its final appearance.

Professional advice

The advice of an experienced electrician must be followed in order for the power outlet to operate effectively and safely over a long period of time. They will help you avoid most mistakes and get the job done efficiently.

Basic tips:

1. Any type of plug structure should be installed at a height of about 30 centimeters from the floor surface.
2. If you want to install the device near pipes, batteries or sinks, then the distance from the floor should be increased to half a meter.
3. When using an outdoor outlet, run wires parallel to the architectural lines. In this case, an offset of up to 15 cm from the floor slab must be maintained.
4. To fix the box when installing a hidden socket, you need to use a composition brought to the consistency of soft plasticine.
5. The wires must run at least 2 meters above the floor.
6. If the device is mounted in a wall made of wood or any other flammable material, then it is necessary to provide a paronite substrate under the base. It will protect the structure and walls from excessive heating and spontaneous combustion.

Installing a three-pole socket outlet is a rather difficult task that requires certain knowledge and skills.

With the right approach to business and following all the recommendations of experienced electricians, you can greatly simplify the entire process and achieve the desired result in the shortest possible time.