The need to create a block of sockets arises for those who need to connect a group of electrical appliances. In one such installation, there may be several key points. Today we will consider the types of outlets and their connection options.
About design
Blocks differ from the standard outlet only in the number of distribution places. The unit has a plastic housing and internal elements. The latter include terminals with terminals and contacts. After fixing the springs for the forks. Today, modern installations are grounded. This improves safety and reduces stress.
Types
Most often, there are two main blocks of sockets:
- Installation to create a hidden electrical wiring. It is built into the wall, and on the outside there is a module for socket boxes in the form of glasses.
- Open wiring. This is a simple design with a plastic socket.
There are other designs - for example, retractable. They are mounted in furniture, and they are used if necessary. There is no big difference from simple and commonly used installations. The power supply for sockets is mounted in the kitchen. They have their own location, which is recognized as correct. Without such outlets, it is difficult to imagine the convenience of kitchen appliances. But in other rooms, sockets are often located near large energy consumers. This is a TV, computer, etc.
The block of power sockets for bathrooms is made of three main points of consumption. But they have their own addition - protection against moisture. And another condition is the distance from the outlet to the source of water. It should be at least half a meter. This rule should not be violated so that no short circuits and accidents occur.
Commissioning Methods
When commissioning an outlet block of one group, a loop method will be suitable. This implies feeding all group members to a common wiring supply line. But the permissible load should not exceed 16 amperes.
The combined method is another possible option. The process uses a parallel circuit. This method is more common outside of Russia and the CIS. But in the post-Soviet countries, only large consumers work on separate lines. During installation, two cables are laid from the main junction box, with their purpose:
- The first in the form of a loop, supplies power to four out of five outlets.
- And the second is already going to the fifth point. Here is a group of outlets. This is for appliances with increased power consumption.
It is clear that the advantages of the combined design are enough, one of which is the lack of dependence on energy consumers located in the same chain. Although there are cons. This is the cost of an extra meter of cable, as well as more complex installation work.
Both methods (loopback and combined) are used both in closed and open systems. The first option involves laying the wire in the channel made in the wall and a place for the nests. But in the combined already the entire structure runs along the wall. To fix the outlet block to 2 outlets, it is better to use plastic cable channels, as they are safer. When you open the wiring, it looks more neat and does not interfere with the external perception of the entire space.
The main part of the channels is equipped with partitions. A line is mounted in them. The design itself has removable covers, so checking the condition of the wiring is very simple. Everyone decides what is suitable for his house or apartment. It is worth expressing your preference depending on the degree of wiring load.
Connection Instructions
Before you begin installation work, you need to decide what exactly will be applied. It does not matter what the walls are made of - concrete, drywall or wood. It all depends on the material of the switch block. In some cases, you will have to make channels on the wall, and in others - lay the elements on top.
So that there is no braking in the work, it is worth preparing the necessary tools and materials. In order not to forget anything, it is better to work according to the selected instructions.
Training
The very first thing required is to de-energize the line on which the work is being done. If there is no automation, then you just need to unscrew the plugs. The process will require the following:
- Switch block with a socket.
- Strap.
- Wires for laying lines and jumpers.
- Podrozetniki.
- Alabaster solution.
When choosing, it is worth focusing on the quality of all components. In the process, you need to stock up on special tools:
- Hammer drill with drill bit.
- Level.
- A set of tools for electrical installation.
- Roulette.
- Ruler and marker.
- Capacity for solution.
- Putty knife.
The choice of crown is based on which surface you need to work with. There are various nozzles, depending on the cost and characteristics.
How to mark a wall?
Correctly made markup will allow you to create a quality design and determine future work. It is worth paying attention to the presence of any communications in the plaster. If it is drywall, then there is a possibility of damage to metal profiles. Using a ruler, level, marker (pencil), the surface is marked.
It is immediately decided how many points will be in one installation. They become the centers where the hole is made. Before you start, make a slight indentation. Departure from the center of the mark is not allowed, otherwise it will not be possible to install the element evenly. It is good when the crown on the punch is slightly larger than the required hole. Experts say that it is better to perform work on the drawing.
Work on the seats
The creation of holes is done at low speeds with a gradual increase in speed. In the process, pay attention to the progress of the drill. It is important that it does not go aside. The resulting hole will be filled with construction waste. It is completely cleaned. After it is worth performing the connecting channels. If the wiring is hidden, it is best to use foil for it.
When the preparation is complete, the installation and connection of the entire structure begins.
Features of fixation of podrozetniki
For the best connecting system, special glasses are used. They have an additional plastic fixing element. If the wall is concrete, then the fastening is made by alabaster. Such a solution quickly hardens, so it is worth diluting it a little thinner than usual in order to be in time.
What next?
After that, the block of sockets (19 "8 sockets) is placed in the hole. To get everything smoothly, it is worth using the building level. Then the edges of the structure are aligned. The wires going to it are coated with the same composition. When the solution hardens, they start connecting.
If this is an application of a loop type, then the wires go from the junction box immediately to the socket. This is done carefully so as not to break the structure. The excess cable is twisted and placed in the socket. But the length should not be long. Otherwise, the installation of the remaining components will fail.
Position the terminals correctly. Then lead the conductor and the zeros of the cable to the outlet block. It is worth knowing exactly the principle of the polarity of the contacts. It is important to strictly follow all the rules, because any violation can lead to serious consequences.