Installation of switches and sockets according to the European standard
The contents
Switches and sockets is of the required items in each room. They allow you to control the lighting and to connect electric appliances to the network, so their location should be most convenient. However, many people forget that these elements, the outputs of circuits under voltage. Therefore, their location should be as convenient and safe.
To ensure these parameters and created different standards. They provide the optimum location and installation of elements of the grid. One of the most reliable is the European standard which is widely used in Europe.
Standards for switches ↑
Uniform standards for the location of switches and sockets simply do not exist. As a replacement there are different standards governing this issue. However, most people prefer to put these elements only according to their own preferences, ignoring recommendations and safety. This leads to damage to the network that can contribute to fire.
As for the switches, say three options to install them:
- Soviet;
- The European standard;
- Free installation.
The first method is in full compliance with the rules established in the Soviet era. It lies in the fact that the switches were located at a height of 160 cm from the floor. This setup has several advantages, among which mark the height at eye level, as well as convenience in the arrangement of furniture.
Another advantage is the protection of children. The child simply does not reach such elements, which ensures its safety. Gradually, however, the demand on the Soviet method falls, and use it only people who got used to it.
The European standard is slightly different from the previous version. It is the most modern and comfortable. When using the switches located at a height of 90 cm from the floor. The advantages of this method several: no need to raise hands and the item is imperceptible on the General background of the room.
The last option involves the installation at the client’s request. In this case, the standards of height leaves, but observed the basic rules and standards of installation. Free installation is often used in areas where both standards are simply not suitable.
Standards for sockets ↑
Sockets also have their own standards for installation. Although they are a little different from the ones used for switches, there are also significant differences. Installation options are all the same, Soviet, European and free.
Soviet standard for power outlets means the installation at a height of 90 inches from the floor. It was quite uncomfortable, after all, led to the big mess of wires, visible from any point of the room. In addition, the volume of the plug is easy to hit with residents that could lead to breakage of an element, or failure.
The European version here is much better. He recommends the installation of sockets at a height of 30 centimeters. This allows you to hide the wires behind furniture and barely notice them. For convenience, you can make 1 outlet under the old standard, to connect the charger and other.
Free installation here has the same standards as before. It is important to observe the basic rules of installation, which are known by the majority of electricians.
Recommendations for the location of outlets and switches ↑
As mentioned earlier, the standard commonly used in Europe. It is more convenient and its safety is high. However, the elements only it is not necessary, because this parameter can be adjusted according to your requirements.
The low location of outlets and switches is quite convenient. It allows you to use them without unnecessary movements, which is especially important for people with limited motor skills of the body. In addition, it is aesthetically pleasing and beautiful. More bundles of wires do not spoil the overall appearance of the room.
However, the location of these elements in the room does not regulated. In this respect there are a few recommendations:
- Mount switches at height hands.
- The light should come on near the entrance to the room.
- In large rooms you can install multiple switches.
Not always the man’s height corresponds to the average. Therefore it is necessary to adjust the height of the installation according to the position of their hands, that will simplify life. In addition, the location of such items should be comfortable for the person. He should be able to quickly turn on the light when returning home or entering the room. In the bedroom it makes sense to set duplicate elements next to the bed to stand up before bedtime.
Requirements for the location can vary depending on the type of room. This is especially true of kitchen and bathroom. It is worth remembering that there is a risk of liquid dripping on the wire, which can short the circuit and cause injuries. Therefore, it is important about this issue carefully.
In the bathroom the installation of sockets according to the European standard is not welcome. The height of 30 cm may cause fluid comes in contact. Therefore it is better to mount them at a height of 90 cm, which corresponded to Soviet standards. The entire enclosure must be plastic and have good insulation.
The kitchen is recommendations similar, but slightly different. The high location of the outlets is because kitchen furniture and regular use of various devices. Therefore, these elements are mounted at a height of 110 cm with an average height of kitchen furniture of 90 cm. This will make them more convenient.
The installation process ↑
Installation of sockets and switches are almost identical. First, you need to disconnect the network and to carry out preparatory work. Among them, the purchase of the item and the cleaning of the workplace. For further work you will need the following tools:
- Knife;
- Screwdriver;
- Clippers.
As well as housing and escutcheon. The escutcheon is called a component, which serves as the basis for the inner part of the socket. The housing also serves for wiring connections and further work item
The process involves several stages:
- Stripping the wires;
- The installation of the escutcheon;
- Connection of wires;
- Securing housing.
First you need to clean the output wires, previously having got them into the escutcheon. You need to leave the exposed 8 mm required for connection. Further, wall hole mounted escutcheon.
After these stages starts connecting sockets. The metal part is connected to the network, bringing in the holes corresponding to the color of the wires. If a color marking is missing, then you need to know in advance the correct location of the wires and to find the phase.
After that, the socket is mounted, is mounted plastic case. The electricity is switched on, the design is tested for performance.
Mandatory requirements for the location ↑
Regardless of the height and standard must comply with the basic requirements of the location. They are necessary for the safety of residents, protecting them from various risks.
Among the basic requirements of visit note:
- Removal from heating pipes and gas supply to the meter;
- Removal from the openings and frames at 10 centimeters;
- The distance from the sink to the meter;
- The distance from the corner at 10 centimeters..
In addition, it is important to consider the dimensions of the furniture and also the material of which it is composed. If it is flammable, it is important to position the outlet at a certain distance from such structures.
It is also important to consider the availability of such elements. Often the switch is behind furniture or at a great distance from the door, what use it is inconvenient. These calculations should be carried out in advance.
All these tips will help you properly install sockets and switches. For a better understanding of the process of installation it is recommended to watch this video. Here is described the process of connecting such elements to the network: