Home appliances that provide comfort at home and in the office, need to be connected to the electrical network. A large number of overhead outlets will not become a highlight in the interior design, regardless of the purpose of the room.
An excellent solution in such cases will be retractable sockets for countertops. Easy-to-use devices help to save space in the room and fit perfectly into the interior.
We will introduce you to the types of retractable sockets offered for sale. Here you will find valuable information about the design features, the specifics of operation and installation of a mobile variety of electric points. Information is supplemented by photos, diagrams and video presentations.
Types and features of retractable sockets
The built-in power connector block is an original invention of outlet manufacturers. It is convenient to use and able to blend in harmoniously in any room.
World-renowned outlet manufacturers offer the buyer ever-more sophisticated models and variations of such designs.
The color solutions offered by manufacturers allow you to choose the most suitable option for your home, which will make the outlet almost invisible element of the interior
Classification of countertop units
A stylish solution for a kitchen-studio, office space will be built-in sockets in a cabinet, table or countertop. They serve as an alternative to an extension cord, while being its more advanced variety. After all, it is not always appropriate to use a conventional extension cord, especially when it comes to a conference room or a room for cooking.
For a conference room, it is advisable to install several units of built-in sockets. This will avoid confusion with wires from extension cords.
Depending on the appearance of the built-in unit, sockets are:
- horizontal type;
- vertically located.
Horizontal blocks can have one power connector, as well as 2, 3, 4 or more. It all depends on the particular model under consideration. Also, in addition to standard plugs, they can provide USB, HDMI, Internet connection.
Low models with connectors of various types are well suited for installation in a recreation area if a family of 2 people lives in the house
Vertical models differ from each other in height and functionality. Among this type of socket blocks, there are low variations, all the connectors in which are located along the circumference of the device.
Often you can find models with 2, 3, 5 or more connectors, located one after another in height. In these outlet blocks, you can connect not only kitchen appliances, but also a laptop, a charger for any type of mobile phone, non-standard instrument plugs.
Retractable sockets with inputs located in a circle are quite compact. They allow you to connect multiple consumers of electricity with different connectors simultaneously
According to their design features, sockets built into the surface of the furniture are divided into:
- retractable;
- rotary.
Retractable blocks, depending on the specific model, can rotate around its axis by 180, 360 degrees. Some manufacturers offer illuminated sockets, which can set a special atmosphere for the room.
Retractable vertical models having a sufficiently high height above the countertop level must be carefully operated by carefully removing the plug
Swivel built-in sockets are considered more reliable in operation. Their main disadvantage is the difficulty in using devices with a side type of plug.
Rotary extendable models are more stable than vertical ones. This is due to their small height above the table
Built-in outlet blocks can be placed in the following places:
- in a hanging cabinet;
- in the countertop / table;
- in the gutter between the countertop and the wall.
The built-in designs of outlet blocks can be called universal, because the same model can be installed both in a hinged cabinet and in a countertop. There is no fundamental difference in the installation location for such models.
The location of the pull-out outlet in the wall cabinet is very convenient. The main thing is to provide free space for its installation
One of the most important characteristics of any type of outlet is its degree of protection. Retractable models for the kitchen should be taken with a value of IP44. Indeed, in this room there is an increased level of humidity, the threat of small particles of fat and dust.
Features of the device retractable structures
Retractable sockets in their convenience and need can be compared with the built-in appliances for the kitchen. They not only save space, but also simplify life. After all, there is no need to lay a separate line to establish the missing number of stationary points of connection to the mains.
Sockets located in the gutter between the wall and the countertop are reliably protected by a cover from moisture and grease during operation
Sockets that are built into a countertop, cabinet or other surface are a block of connectors arranged in a certain way. Their size and appearance are dictated by the idea of the designer designing a specific model for the manufacturer's company.
Most often, the connectors are grounded. The unit is equipped with a cable from 1 to 3 meters long and a plug for connecting to the network.
The drawer fork can be stationary or collapsible. If everything is clear with the stationary option - plugged into the network and the device is ready for use, then a collapsible plug will come in handy when you need to increase the length of the cable.
The principle of operation of the retractable vertical unit is quite simple. This inoperative structure is completely hidden in a secluded place - under the countertop / in a wall cabinet.
If you want to connect a coffee grinder or other household appliance, you must press the top protective cover of the retractable outlet. She will open a couple of centimeters. Next, simply pull the entire block up until it locks in place.
The specifics of operating a retractable outlet are schematically depicted in the following selection:
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Socket unit pushed into the table position
Removing the outlet block from the table cavity
Installation of the unit in a position convenient for work
Using the drawer in the retracted position
Fixation takes place using a special button installed by the manufacturer at the bottom of the unit. You can turn on household appliances without being distracted by the search for an extension cord or a free outlet on the working apron.
When the need for an additional power connector disappears, it is enough to squeeze out the mechanism that fixes the sliding block, and, slightly pressing on the top cover, hide the entire structure in its permanent place.
Vertical models can be equipped with LED backlight, additional inputs for audio / video equipment and other sockets. Also, depending on individual characteristics, there are blocks that can be hidden in the countertop along with the plugs of household appliances included in them.
A socket integrated in the countertop, called twist, is brought into operation by rotating the lid. During rotation, the connectors for connecting the appliance plug open
Swivel retractable outlet block inoperative hidden in the countertop. When you need to use one of its connectors to connect to the electrical appliance network, just click on the special button on top.
Some models have a mechanism that triggers when you press the cover. With this operation, a block leaves the countertop, turning the power connectors to a position convenient for use.
The angle of rotation depends on the characteristics of the model - about 180 degrees. The specific value must be indicated in the manufacturer's instructions.
Having planned the installation of retractable sockets in advance, you can focus on this in the manufacture of countertops. Then experts will make a special hole and a cover under it
The rotary block of sockets is hidden by clicking on the corresponding mechanism from above. Its connection to the mains is carried out using a cable located at the bottom. Some models do not have a cable included. You have to buy a suitable wire yourself, given the technical characteristics of the unit.
Features of the selection and installation of retractable sockets
A sudden need for additional points for connecting electrical appliances can satisfy a retractable outlet. Its installation is not particularly difficult. It is important to choose a model that can fulfill all the requirements for it. Then the operation process itself will bring only positive emotions.
Rotary built-in outlet is increasingly used to create additional network connection points
Information for making a competent purchase
The outlet market is replete with seductive options from the most famous manufacturers. In order to select a suitable model among the mass of proposals that corresponds to their ideas about the ratio of quality and price, it is necessary to clearly formulate requirements.
Firstly, it remains to be decided how many power connectors and additional inputs for audio / video equipment, USB cables and other things will be needed. In accordance with these requirements, you can select the appropriate option. You may need to purchase 2 or 3 built-in designs.
Secondly, we must not forget about power. Each model is designed for the maximum allowable load that it can withstand. This information is also needed to understand what section the cable is needed for connection. Therefore, the total power of electrical appliances that are planned to be connected should not exceed this value.
To find out what kind of load the attractive model of the outlet block can withstand, it is enough to familiarize yourself with its technical characteristics given by the manufacturer in the instructions.
Outlet blocks that can be drowned in the countertop when the appliance is turned on protect the device from splashes and droplets of grease
Thirdly, the manufacturer is important. The products of the company are presented on the market: German Evoline, Italian Simon Connect, Russian Ecoplast, French Schneider Electric, Swiss Kondator, Polish GTV. Retractable sockets made of high quality materials.
Manufacturers who have been supplying their products to the market for more than one year are fully responsible for its quality. But there are cheaper analogues made by Chinese companies - Desc Socket and Displace. These outlet blocks visually resemble their original prototypes, but the similarities end there.
Retractable sockets of Chinese firms are made of cheaper materials, so after 4-6 months they begin to deteriorate. First, the unit begins to live its own life, not responding to the needs of the user. It spontaneously opens and closes, and after a while it stops working.
Fourth, you need to choose the option that matches the color scheme of the room. Manufacturers pay special attention to this issue, offering different color solutions of the same model - metal, gold, bronze, black, white and others.
Regardless of the level of protection of a particular model, the unit should be placed away from water, because they do not have waterproof properties
Fifthly, having selected the optimal model, it should be carefully examined for the presence of external damage and defects. You also need to check the configuration and performance of the purchased device.
Sixth, it is necessary to pay attention to the degree of protection indicated by the manufacturer in the instructions. Well, when this value is IP44, if you have to install in the kitchen. For a room or office, IP20 is enough.
Selection of device location
At the stage of calculating the required number of inputs for connecting to the mains, you need to decide where exactly the outlet blocks will be located. It is important that the place is convenient and easily accessible.
Using a retractable structure should first of all be convenient for the hostess of the kitchen
If you need to install built-in sockets in an office table located in the room for negotiations / meetings, then you need to consider and anticipate the needs of business partners and employees. Indeed, in the process of collaboration, there is a need for additional power for laptops, tablets and other mobile devices.
The number of connectors for the connection should be commensurate with the number of employees participating in the discussion of business processes.
For placement in the house of outlet blocks that are built into the countertop / cabinet, the rule of convenience and accessibility is also relevant. In this case, we must not forget about security. If a retractable outlet will be installed in the kitchen, then you need to choose the right location.
It is strictly forbidden to install sliding blocks in such places:
- above / below the stove;
- above / under the sink;
- next to the stove / sink.
These requirements are dictated by safety rules. Indeed, the ingress of water can lead to a short circuit. Keep a distance of 60 cm from water and fire.
If the outlet integrated in the countertop is very close to the sink, it can become unusable at any time. In the process of washing dishes, spilling of water on a nearby countertop is not excluded. And the protective cover of the retractable outlet is not tight and will not be able to protect from the penetration of water into the mechanism.
Having placed additional electric points away from the stove, you can not worry that the body of the built-in unit will melt
The best place to place the built-in blocks is the work area of the countertop, which is actively used by the hostess for cooking, as well as the eating and resting area of all family members.
If in the working area it is more expedient to place a block of 3-5 power connectors, then in the recreation area a block of combined connectors will be more necessary. Then all family members will be able to connect their mobile devices, if necessary.
Self-installation of embedded structures
Retractable sockets can be installed independently. To do this, you need a minimal set of tools - you don’t have to hollow the walls and lay a separate power line.
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The built-in outlet can be simply bought at the store or you can write out your favorite device
Before installation, you should deal with the equipment, which includes the pair socket itself, the fasteners and the mounting plate, which is fixed on the back of the countertop
We measure the actual dimensions of the swivel outlet, which in budget models do not always coincide with those indicated in the passport
Before installation, carefully study the device of the paired swivel outlet from the back
We carefully think over and select a place for installing the block of retractable sockets, as for installation, you will need to cut a hole in the table. It will be impossible to fix errors later
We mark the place and size of the hole in which the lower part of the device, hidden under the table, will be immersed. Cut a hole in the block according to the marking
From above, the device is pressed with wines, from below, under the countertop - with a mounting plate, a PVC sealant is installed around the perimeter of the hole
After installing and connecting the unit, we check its effect in practice. In the closed position, only the top panel of the device protrudes above the table
Step 1: Acquire the rotary unit
Step 2: Complete the unit with two power points
Step 3: Measure Real Sizes
Step 4: Learning from the Inside
Step 5: Choosing the optimal position for the outlet pair
Step 6: Forming the Installation Hole
Step 7: Installing the Twin Swivel Socket on the Table
Step 8: Testing the installed retractable outlet
The main difficulty in installation is to cut a hole in the countertop. Depending on its material, this operation may require the use of additional tools or the involvement of specialists.
So, if the coating is made of artificial stone, glass or other complex material, then you can not do without special skills.
In the slotted hole of the countertop, a retractable structure is placed and securely fixed by fasteners
If the question of how to independently install the sockets in a glass countertop arose before ordering a kitchen set, then the holes for them are best ordered from the company of the furniture manufacturer. Without experience with such material, you can spoil an expensive surface.
In the case when making a hole is not difficult, you can safely proceed to install the drawer. To do this, mark the installation site, guided by the actual dimensions specified in the instructions. Each model will have its own.
Having finished the marking, you will carefully cut the hole. Then, using the supplied fasteners that come with the kit, tightly fix the sockets. In the case of installing a pull-out unit with a cable and plug, it remains to plug it into a regular outlet. The cable length allows you to reach even a very remote electrical point behind the cabinet.
Depending on the model and manufacturer of the retractable outlet blocks, their dimensions and installation patterns will differ. Information on this data is given in the instructions.
If there is no such outlet, then the built-in design can be connected directly to the supply wire, alternately connecting the corresponding wires. It is important to de-energize the line with which to work. Otherwise, you may receive a shock.
In the case when the purchased model does not have a cable with a plug, it is necessary to connect the seats using wire lengths of 15-20 cm. Then connect the power cable, leading it into the hole in the box body. The ends of the wires must be cleaned, freed from insulation, and connected to the outlet mechanism according to the marking.
Having finished working with wires, you can turn on the power to the line and check the operability of the installed retractable outlet.
Information on the installation rules and the installation sequence of the stationary outlet block can be found in one of the popular articles on our website.
Video # 1. A video about a horizontal socket block of a Polish manufacturer built into a tabletop:
Video # 2. Overview of the use of a vertical outlet mounted in a countertop / cabinet:
Video # 3. Visual video about the operation of a vertical pull-out outlet built into the countertop:
Having given preference to the blocks of electrical connectors built into the countertop, it is important to choose the optimal model. Its installation can be done on its own, following the installation instructions. This design will add a twist to the modern interior and will significantly save usable space in the room.
Want to talk about how you installed a retractable outlet with your own hands, or about how you use a convenient device for many years? Have questions or find controversial issues in the text? Please comment in the box below.