A modern person in the kitchen uses all kinds of household appliances that require constant and periodic network recharge. Therefore, with the simultaneous use of several devices, it is often necessary to connect them in turn to an outlet. This greatly complicates the cooking process, agree?
To solve this problem with "little blood", you can install built-in sockets in the countertop. Such connectors do not take up much space, provide simultaneous connection of several household appliances and allow you to hide all the wires in the kitchen.
But how to choose and install such a device? This is what we will discuss in detail in this material - we will consider the types of embedded units on the market, and dwell on the features of their design. We also give recommendations on the operation and self-installation of such outlets, supplementing the material with thematic photos and visual videos.
Features of built-in socket blocks
Any built-in socket is, first of all, a socket of electric networks, which is used to power household appliances. The functionally integrated connector is no different from typical patch sockets and extension cords. It does not have any additional characteristics. The popularity of the connector is associated with its decorative and practical value.
The built-in network unit allows you to connect several household appliances at one time. This makes it possible to do without carrying in the kitchen during cooking and not to look for constantly free sockets on the apron. In this case, the device inoperative is hidden from prying eyes and is inaccessible to children.
The built-in sockets in the kitchen are invisible to the prying eye, as the headset is recessed in the countertop or closed with stylish decorative covers
Built-in socket blocks allow you to connect multiple devices at once without the use of bulky and inconvenient network filters (tees and extension cords)
Built-in sockets are modern extension cords, analogs of surge protectors, which began to look more stylish and ergonomic. They expand design capabilities and allow you to design a kitchen in any style.
Built-in network units help hide wires under the countertop, regardless of their number. These outlets are compact and elegant in appearance. They help to rationally use the workspace and are able to ennoble any interior.
Built-in network units can easily fit into an interior designed in any style (from classic to urban)
Built-in sockets can be horizontal or vertical. Vertical network units have the form of cylinders along the entire length of which there are jacks for plugs. Inoperative, they are recessed in the countertop. Vertical retractable sockets are considered the most popular and common on the market.
Vertical sockets with a retractable mechanism - this is the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to built-in network units in the kitchen
Horizontal blocks of sockets are placed in round, square or rectangular boxes. Often they are equipped with several power connectors. Due to design features, they can be stationary or rotary.They have many working sockets, but are poorly adapted for connecting plugs with wires located on the side, and not directly.
Types of Embedded Network Blocks
All sockets built into the countertops of kitchen sets can be divided into fixed, retractable and rotary.
View # 1 - stationary sockets
Stationary blocks are mounted in the specified plane without the possibility of changing position. From hit of crumbs, water and various garbage they are protected by covers. To plug the appliance into a power outlet, you just need to push this cover.
Such connectors are simple and do not require any complex manipulations during operation.
The stationary built-in power supply unit differs little from the classic overhead electrical outlets, since it is difficult to disguise from prying eyes
The main disadvantage of stationary built-in sockets can be called the fact that they take up a lot of space on the desktop.
The surface of the caps is not suitable for functional use. You can’t put anything on it, and therefore you have to use only the unoccupied part of the countertop.
View # 2 - extendable models
Due to the inability of the covers of stationary models for operation, retractable sockets are more popular. Their surface can merge with the countertop - in the inoperative state, the cover of the network unit protrudes above the surface of the headset literally 1-2 mm. Because of this, the kitchen looks more tidy and tidy.
When a retractable electrical outlet, after pressing, effectively appears from the countertop headset, the kitchen takes on a modern and unusual look
To extend the outlet, press the lid or the button next to it. After that, the retractable mechanism will work. He will push the network unit out of the countertop fully or partially by 10-20 mm.
After this, the unit must be pulled out by hand and fixed at the desired height. Many models are equipped with special buttons that allow you to fix the desired result.
To fix the power outlet to the desired height, just click on a specific button on the device
A retractable outlet is a specific connector. It performs the functions of a standard electrical connector, but has a number of features.
It should not be used for household appliances that should always be connected to the network:
- refrigerators;
- air conditioners;
- freezers;
- electric stoves (to connect them you need a power outlet);
- other things.
The whole essence of this connector lies precisely in the fact that it is hidden from prying eyes.
A built-in retractable outlet is needed for short-term connection of several electrical devices to the network. These may include coffee makers, kettles, toasters, steamers and other appliances that do not require a permanent electrical connection. When the equipment turns off, the network unit can be recessed into the countertop.
The presence of additional software control and integration of the unit into the Smart Home system allows you to automatically immerse the outlet in the countertop after turning off the equipment
Due to the design features, a retractable outlet cannot be placed on the countertop area under which there are drawers or water pipes.
It belongs to rather fragile structures and with frequent use can quickly become loose. To increase the possible life of the network unit when attaching or removing the plug from the socket, you should hold the device with your hand.
In more detail, retractable sockets for countertops, we examined in the next article.
View # 3 - Swivel Blocks
Swivel sockets are able to change their position in space. They are installed in the required position without loss of functionality. The angle of inclination depends on the characteristics of the selected model and can reach a value of 180 degrees.The values of this parameter are indicated on the product packaging.
To use this outlet, you just need to click on its cover or button located next to the countertop or wall.
Before installing the surge protector, make sure that it will be convenient for daily connection of the most commonly used household appliances
Such network units belong to horizontal structures. When using them, some difficulties may be observed when connecting devices with l-shaped plugs.
Benefits of Concealed Outlets
Built-in sockets are ergonomic devices that allow you to get rid of excess wires in the kitchen. They are absolutely safe for the user, unpretentious in maintenance and suitable for operation in rooms with high humidity. Due to the lack of wires from network units in the public domain, the overall electrical safety is increased.
Built-in network units allow you to well hide the wires deep in the headset, which minimizes the risk of accidental or targeted damage
Children or pets cannot reach the cord. Concealed constructions are generally well protected from children. This is especially true for models equipped with an electromechanical (push-button) opening mechanism.
Modern models of network units are multifunctional. They can easily integrate into systems like Smart Home.
The devices are equipped with:
- USB and HDMI connectors
- servos controlled by a special touch switch;
- remote control module with remote control;
- backlight, etc.
Sockets built into the countertop can be installed after the repair and installation of the kitchen unit is completed. They work like an extension cord, and therefore their installation does not require a change in wiring. Thanks to the spectacular high-tech design, these network units can easily fit into any design interior.
Step-by-step installation instructions
For ease of installation, most built-in sockets are made with a plug. Due to this, they can be installed independently.
To install the unit you need:
- Prepare the necessary tools: a screwdriver, a drill, a milling cutter with a suitable nozzle, a jigsaw with a wood file, a meter or an ordinary ruler, a Phillips screwdriver, building glue, a file, a simple pencil.
- Determine the location of the outlet and release it from excess objects. The distance from the stationary outlet to the built-in outlet is determined by the length of the cord last.
- Make the necessary calculations in accordance with the dimensions of the purchased network unit.
- Outline the hole with a simple pencil.
- Make a drill or punch a hole in the countertop according to measurements. You can drill it with a margin of several millimeters, so that the device quickly fell into place.
- Sand up any irregularities.
- Clean the drilling site from sawdust and dust.
- Remove the socket housing by unscrewing the screws on the front part, leaving only the socket.
- Turn off the power in the apartment / house for security reasons.
- Wear tight rubber gloves.
- Take out the block and fix it in the hole using the elements that come with the connector.
- Drill through holes through the countertop to secure the ears of the socket.
- Secure the socket with the lower screw fasteners. If necessary, you can use glue or construction clamps.
- Insert the sockets into the socket and screw them with screws. In this case, you can add silicone around the perimeter to the countertop to increase the sealing of the network unit. This will provide additional protection for the device in case water spills.
- Treat the trimmed ends of the plate with water repellent at the installation site of the block.
- Fix the wires of the network unit inside the furniture (for this you can additionally use a special corrugation for wires).
- Make a small hole in the back or side of the headset and pull the cord from the unit through it.
- Connect the device to the network and check its performance.
The built-in socket should be installed away from the sink and stoves (minimum distance - 60 cm). You also need to take care of grounding. All work on installing the outlet takes from 10 minutes to an hour (depending on experience and the availability of necessary tools).
Before using embedded network units, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the main recommendations for their maintenance and operation.
Embedded Block Selection Rules
A wide range of built-in sockets makes it difficult to choose the right device - there is a great temptation to buy a device, guided by completely incorrect conclusions. For example, choose the cheapest device.
But price cannot be the main criterion for selection. To purchase the most suitable network unit, it is advisable to first determine its purpose and features of further operation, and then look at the technical characteristics of the network unit.
Chinese recessed sockets with Ali-express are very cheap, but these devices may break down a month after installation
When choosing, a number of parameters should be considered:
- Number of required ports and slots (connectors). It is determined by how many household appliances will be included in the network at the same time. Standard embedded network units contain 2-6 sockets arranged symmetrically.
- Power Outlet Block. It is necessary to estimate in advance the total power that will be needed when all the equipment is connected at the same time, and select a device with a twofold power margin. If you correctly calculate the allowable load, you can avoid network overvoltage.
- Degree of protection of the device from dirt and moisture. Modern embedded network units are protected from any external influences. For the kitchen, it is best to choose sockets with a degree of protection IP44 according to international classification. In accordance with it, protection against water splashes and dust with a diameter of up to 1 mm is provided. Typically, the degree of protection IP is indicated on the product packaging.
- Device size. The installed unit should not interfere with cooking and any other manipulations in the kitchen.
- The design style of the device. The built-in socket must fully match the design of the headset and the entire kitchen. In this case, the network unit will not be evident and will become a stylish addition to the interior.
The network unit must be of high quality. When buying it, you should pay attention to the reliability of materials, fasteners and build quality.
In the long run, it is worth choosing sockets of famous European brands. Cheap Chinese-made appliances will quickly break down and become unusable. Models of the brands Simon, Kondator, GTV and Evoline have proven themselves best.
More information about choosing a place for mounting the outlet and about installing the network unit can be found in the following video:
The built-in socket is an ergonomic and multifunctional device. Such a network unit can seamlessly integrate into any interior. You only need to carefully consider its location relative to the main electrical appliances in the kitchen, taking into account the maximum ease of use.
Guided by step-by-step instructions, you can build a socket in your countertop with your own hands. The recommendations given in the video and article are relevant for network blocks of any brands. They can be used to install built-in sockets in the kitchen.
If you have already installed smart sockets in the kitchen and are actively using them, we and other visitors to our site will be happy to hear about your experience. Please share your impressions of the operation - the comment form is located below.Also here you can add original photos of your built-in outlet, talk about what difficulties you encountered during installation and how you could deal with them.