Built-in sockets in the countertop: types, manufacturers, installation

Often kitchens in apartments do not differ in large dimensions. In addition, there are more and more household appliances that need to be connected to the mains. There is a dilemma: how to save space and at the same time provide power to these devices? The use of tees and extension cords is not always acceptable. It is too expensive and difficult to lay new capital wiring in the wall. In addition, it is impossible to consider what household appliances and where in the future appear in the kitchen. It is much more advisable to integrate sockets into the countertop.

Features and benefits of recessed outlets

According to the electrical parameters of the outlet, hidden in countertop or closet, little different from ordinary. Their main advantage is different: the power outlet when folded is hidden inside the table or any kitchen furniture. At the same time, the surface of the countertop can be used in normal mode with some restrictions.

If you need to connect any household appliance, the built-in sockets can easily be taken out of their shelters, and then they can also easily be removed back, as in the photo below.

Thus, their use brings the following advantages:

• Increases electrical safety due to the lack of easily accessible wires. All electrical wiring is securely hidden inside the kitchen furniture, it is difficult to damage or hook on it.
• The likelihood of moisture or dust getting inside the sockets is reduced.
• Secret blocks are more protected from access of small children.
• When removed, devices save space in the kitchen, for example, increasing the working area of ​​the countertop.
• Many models are equipped with additional connectors for connecting electronic devices, such as USB ports.
• The original design of outlets built into the countertop organically fits into modern styles kitchen interior decoration.

However, these devices also have disadvantages:

• They are not suitable for connecting stationary appliances such as a refrigerator or TV. Secret sockets are used to temporarily power mixers, electric meat grinders, and laptop chargers. Keeping them constantly open is impractical: it’s much more reliable in such cases to use stationary, securely mounted sockets on the wall.
• Although the surface of the countertop seems solid when the devices are recessed, it is necessary to remember their presence. You can put any object on them, but it is hardly worth cutting or putting wet vegetables or fruits.
• Located in hanging drawers, such devices save space in the kitchen, but at the same time take up space inside the furniture. For a countertop, this is not so critical, but in a hanging drawer, sliding blocks can take a significant share of the volume. The device inside the cabinet is in the next photo.

In addition, certain types of such outlets have their weak points. But we will talk about them later.

The main types

The whole variety of models is divided into three groups:

• Open sockets. Recessed countertops on the surface of the countertop are available for free entry of water and debris. So such devices for the most part are preferred to be built in not in the working area of ​​the kitchen, but in tables in various office rooms. They will not hinder to lay out the paper, and at the right time will provide food for the necessary equipment.

• Vertical. They can have a round or rectangular cross section, often supplied with gas shock absorbers for smooth extension. To get such a unit, you just need to press the lid, and then pull it a little. After depressing the stopper, the entire structure is easily recessed.

It must be remembered that when connecting electrical appliances, vertical sockets should be held by hand, otherwise they may not withstand the force due to the rather large lever.

• Horizontal The block of built-in sockets after pressing the stainless steel cover rotates on its axis, and the connectors for connection open. Such devices have some inconveniences: it is not always convenient to insert the power cord in them if the plug is mounted at a right angle. It can simply rest against the surface of the countertop.

Leading manufacturers

When buying retractable sockets, attention should be paid to the products of companies that have reliably established themselves in the global market. These are companies from Europe:

• German Evoline;
• Swedish Kondator;
• Italian Simon.

These companies offer a wide range of retractable sockets of all types, often equipped with additional connectors. The products of these companies are distinguished by reliability, practicality and stylish design.

Recently, a large number of mortise sockets of Chinese manufacture have appeared on the market. But having an attractive price and good design, they do not differ in durability. Quite often, their individual elements can not stand a few months of operation. So, in order to save, you can get only additional costs.

Installation of built-in sockets

In the best case, such devices will be placed in custom-made kitchen furniture. Then, even at the stage of its design, it is possible to place the socket blocks in the most rational and convenient for operation.

But most often these devices are mounted in existing furniture. It is necessary to remember the following points:

1. The distance from the stationary outlet to the retractable one is determined by the length of the last power cord.
2. If possible, the device should be stirred away from water sources. Or choose moisture protected products with IP44.
3. The hole for the device is cut out in the countertop using an electric jigsaw, fixing can be done with standard accessories.
4. Wires must be firmly fixed inside the furniture. If necessary, they should be enclosed in special corrugations.

The main function of retractable sockets is to ensure maximum comfort for the consumer. Therefore, before installation, you should carefully consider their location, taking into account the installed electrical appliances, both available and those that may be acquired in the future.