Appliances that provide comfort at home and in the office need to be connected to the mains. The greater the amount of overhead outlets did not become a highlight in the interior design, regardless of the purpose of the room.
An excellent solution in such cases will be sliding sockets for countertops. They help to save space in the room and a great fit into the interior.
The content of the article:
- Types and characteristics of retractable socket
- Classification embedded blocks countertop
- Product features Retractable design
- Especially the selection and installation of retractable socket
- Information for making purchases competent
- Selection device location
- Self-installation of embedded designs
- Useful videos on the topic
Types and characteristics of retractable socket
Embeddable unit power connector sockets invention is the original manufacturers. It is easy to use and capable of harmoniously fit into any room.
Manufacturers outlets from around the world offer the customer more and more advanced models and variations of such structures.
Classification embedded blocks countertop
Stylish solution for the kitchen-studio, office space will be built-in socket in the cupboard, a table or countertop. They serve as an alternative to a power strip, as well as being more perfect its kind. It is not always appropriate to use an ordinary power strip, especially when it comes to a conference room or a room for cooking.
Depending on the appearance of the embedded block, sockets are:
- horizontal type;
- vertically disposed.
Horizontal blocks may have one power socket and 2, 3, 4 or more. It all depends on the particular model. Also, in addition to standard plugs, they can be provided by a USB connection, HDMI, Internet.
Vertical models differ from each other in height and functionality. Among this type of socket units meet low variations, all slots which are arranged along the circumference of the device.
You can often find models with 2, 3, 5 or more connectors, positioned next to each other in height. These socket strips can be connected not only kitchen appliances, but also laptop charger for all mobile phone types, non-standard plug devices.
According to their design features built into the surface of the furniture outlet is divided into:
- sliding;
- rotary.
Withdrawable units, depending on the specific model, can be rotated about its axis 180, 360 degrees. Some manufacturers offer sockets with lighting that is able to set the special atmosphere of the room.
Rotary recessed sockets are considered more reliable in operation. Their main disadvantage is the difficulty in the use of instruments with a lateral type plug.
Built-in power strips can be placed in the following locations:
- in a wall cabinet;
- worktop / desk;
- in the groove between the countertop and the wall.
Embedded blocks rosette structure can be called universal, because one and the same model can be set as a hinged cabinet or countertop. The principal difference in the place of installation are no such models.
One of the most important characteristics of any type of sockets is a degree of protection. Drawer models for the kitchen should be taken with a value of IP44. Indeed, in this room, elevated humidity levels, the threat of small particles of fat and dust.
Product features Retractable design
Retractable outlet for its convenience and necessity can be compared with built-in furniture for the kitchen. They do not just let you save space, but also make life easier. After all, there is no need to lay a separate line to set the missing number of fixed connections to the mains outlets.
Sockets recessed into the countertop, cabinet, or other surface, the block connectors are arranged in a certain way. Their size and appearance are dictated by the idea of the designer who designs a specific model for the manufacturer. Most often, the connectors have grounding. The unit is equipped with a cable length of 1 to 3 meters and plug for connection to the network.
Fork drawer may be a fixed or dismountable. If with a stationary embodiment is clear - in the switched network and the appliance is ready for use, the collapsible fork is useful when you want to increase the length of the cable.
The principle of operation of the vertical sliding unit is quite simple. This design is in the idle state is completely hidden in a secluded place - under the worktop / in a wall cabinet. If you want to connect the grinder or other household appliance, you have to click on the top of the cover pull-out socket. She slightly open for a couple of centimeters. What follows is just pull the entire unit upwards until it locks into place.
Specificity operating retractable outlet schematically in the following list:
Fixing occurs by means of a special button, set by the manufacturer at the bottom of the unit. You can include home appliances, without being distracted by the search for an extension cord or a free socket on your apron.
When the need for additional connectors eliminates enough to overcome the mechanism that secures drawer, and applying slight pressure on the top cover to hide the entire structure at its permanent location.
Vertical models can be equipped with LED lighting, auxiliary input for audio / video equipment and other types of connectors. Also, depending on the individual characteristics have units that can be hidden in a table-top with the included plugs in their appliances.
Rotary sliding block sockets inoperative hidden in the countertop. When you need to use one of its slots for inclusion in the network appliance, just press a special button at the top. Some models have a mechanism actuated by pressing on the lid. With this actuation of the countertop unit travels, yaw connectors in a convenient position for use.
The angle of rotation depends on the model characteristics - about 180 degrees. The specific value must be indicated in the manufacturer's instructions.
Hiding rotary socket block by pressing the appropriate mechanism from above. His connection to the mains is done via a cable located in the lower part. Some models are not provided by the presence of the cable supplied. Have to buy the right to conduct an independent, given the technical characteristics of the block.
Especially the selection and installation of retractable socket
The sudden need for additional outlets for connecting electric appliances able to satisfy retractable socket. Its installation is not very complicated. It is important to choose a model that will meet all the requirements for it. Then he operation of the process will bring only positive emotions.
Information for making purchases competent
Outlets market abounds with enticing options from the most renowned manufacturers. That among the mass of offers to select the appropriate model corresponding to their notions of the relationship between quality and price, it is necessary to articulate demands.
Firstly, it is necessary to decide how much you will need a power connector and an auxiliary input for audio / video equipment, USB-cable, and more. In accordance with these requirements may be adjusted suitable. You may have to purchase 2 or 3 embedded design.
Secondly, we must not forget about the power. Each model is designed for a maximum load, which it is able to withstand. Therefore, the total power of electrical appliances, which are planned to be connected, must not exceed this value.
To find out what kind of load can withstand vending model C wall unit, familiar enough with the technical specifications given by the manufacturer in the instructions.
Thirdly, the company is set to the manufacturer. In the market the products of companies: Evoline German, Italian Simon Connect, Russia Ekoplast, the French Schneider Electric, the Swiss Kondator, Polish GTV. Retractable sockets are made of high quality materials.
Manufacturers that supply their products to market more than one year, are fully responsible for its quality. But there are also inexpensive, produced by Chinese firms - Desc Socket and Displace. These socket strips visually resemble its original prototype, but the similarity ends.
Retractable sockets Chinese firms are made of cheaper materials, so after 4-6 months they start to come into disrepair. First, the unit starts to live their lives, not reacting to the needs of the user. He spontaneously opens and closes, and after a while does not work.
Fourthly, it is necessary to select a setting that matches the color scheme of the room. Manufacturers of this issue pays special attention to offering a variety of colors of the same model - metal, gold, bronze, black, white, and others.
Fifth, choose the optimal model, it should be carefully inspected for external damage and defects. You also need to check the completion and operation of the purchased device.
Sixth, we must pay attention to the degree of protection specified in the manufacturer's instructions. Well, when this value is IP44, if you have to install the kitchen. For a room or office enough IP20 index.
Selection device location
At the stage of counting the required number of inputs for connection to the mains must decide where it will be located outlet blocks. It is important that the location was convenient and easily accessible.
If the panel socket to be setup in the office desk located in the room for negotiations / meetings, you need to take into account and anticipate the needs of business partners and employees. In fact during the joint work arises a need for additional power for laptops, tablets and other mobile devices.
The number of connectors for connection should be commensurate with the number of employees participating in the discussion of business processes.
For accommodation in the house of bush blocks embedded in the countertop / cabinet also true rule of convenience and accessibility. At the same time we must not forget about safety. If the retractable socket will be installed in the kitchen, it is necessary to choose the right place of its location.
Absolutely can not install the sliding blocks in such places:
- over / under plate;
- over / under the sink;
- next to the stove / sink.
These requirements are dictated by the safety rules. Indeed, ingress of water may cause a short circuit. It should withstand a distance of 60 cm from the water and fire.
If the outlet is built into the countertop is very close to the sink, she may at any time come into disrepair. In the process of washing dishes is not possible spilling of water on a nearby countertop. A retractable protective cover outlet is not sealed and can not protect against the penetration of water into the mechanism.
Optimal space for built-in units - work zone countertops, actively used by the hostess for cooking and eating area and the rest of all family members.
If the working area it is more expedient to place a block of 3-5 power connector, it is more necessary in the recreation area will be combined block connectors. Then all the family members will be able, if necessary, to connect their mobile devices.
Self-installation of embedded designs
Retractable sockets can be set independently. To this end, a minimum set of tools required - because the batter walls and run separate power line is not necessary.
The main difficulty in the installation is to cut a hole in the countertop. Depending on the material thereof, this operation may require the use of additional tools or specialist staff. Thus, if the cover is made of artificial stone, glass or other composite material, it can not do without special skills.
If the question is about how to manually set the socket to a glass tabletop and stood before ordering kitchen furniture, the holes are better ordered from the manufacturer of furniture. Having no experience of working with such material, can ruin an expensive surface.
In the case where the hole do not make much effort, you can safely proceed to the installation of the drawer. To do this, mark the place of installation, guided by real dimensions specified in the instructions. Each model they own.
After graduating from the markup to be carefully cut out the hole. Then, using the provided fasteners, reaching complete, tightly secure sockets. If you are installing a drawer with cable and plug, will turn it into an ordinary wall socket. cable length allows you to get even to very remote elektrotochki for locker.
If a socket is not present, an embedded structure can be directly connected to the supply wire, alternately connecting the appropriate wires. It is important to disconnect the line from which to work with. Otherwise, you may get an electric shock.
In the case where the chosen model has a cable with a plug, to be made between the seats using pigtails 15-20 cm in length. Then connect the power cable, having got it into the opening of the box body. The wires need to clean up and get rid of the insulation, and attach the mechanism to the outlet, respectively, marking.
Having finished working with the wires can include power lines and check the function installed retractable socket.
Useful videos on the topic
Videos embedded in horizontal tabletop unit sockets Polish producer:
Review the use of vertical sockets, built-in countertop / cabinet:
An illustrative video about the vertical sliding socket built into the countertop:
Opting blocks electrical connectors built into the countertop, it is important to select the optimal model. Its installation can make their own, following the installation instructions. This design will add zest to the modern interior, and will significantly save valuable space in the room.
