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The method of installing a wall socket not only determines the installation technique but also the final look in the room. There is a distinction between flush-mounted and surface-mounted variants.
Flush-mounted wall sockets blend seamlessly into the wall, contributing to a sleek and minimalist finish. This installation method requires a suitable mounting box to be placed inside the wall. The base element is mounted in this box, followed by the central plate and cover frame to complete the assembly. Flush mounting is the most popular choice for interiors where design and discretion matter, such as living rooms, offices, and bedrooms.
In contrast, surface-mounted wall sockets are attached directly onto the wall. This generally makes the installation faster and less complex, since you don’t need to break open the walls. Surface-mounted variants are a practical choice in areas where functionality is more important than design, such as garages, sheds, basements, or workshops. They are also suitable where surface installation is more logical logistically.
Safety is a top priority in electrical installations. The presence of protective earth and an appropriate IP rating are crucial aspects that offer protection against electric shocks and external influences.
Wall sockets with protective earth can be recognized by the two metal pins at the top and bottom of the socket opening, which are standard in the Netherlands. This grounding provides a critical extra safeguard: if a fault occurs in a connected device, for example, if a metal part becomes live, the current is safely discharged to earth via the earth wire. This prevents dangerous situations and electric shocks. For damp areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, and for outdoor installations, protective earth is mandatory. The presence of a yellow/green earth wire in the installation is required for this purpose.
Wall sockets without protective earth are mainly found in older installations. While they are still permitted in certain existing situations, they offer limited safety. In new constructions or renovations, installing protective earth is the general standard to meet current safety regulations.
The 'Ingress Protection' rating, abbreviated as IP rating, indicates to what degree a wall socket resists the entry of dust and water. This rating, expressed by two digits (for example, IP44), determines the suitability of a wall socket for specific environments, particularly outdoors or in damp indoor spaces.
| IP Rating | Description and Application |
|---|---|
| IP20 | Suitable for dry indoor spaces only, offers no protection against water or dust. |
| IP44 | Splash-proof: provides protection against splashing water from any direction. Suitable for sheltered outdoor locations (under a canopy) and damp indoor environments like bathrooms and garages. |
| IP54 / IP55 | Dust and splash-proof: offers better protection against dust and splashing water. Usable in more exposed outdoor areas. |
| IP65 | Dust and jet-proof: completely protected against dust and resistant to water jets. Ideal for places that are regularly cleaned with water, such as sheds or carports. |
| IP67 / IP68 | Dust tight and submersible: provides protection against immersion in water for a certain duration or depth. Suitable for very damp environments or even underwater applications (e.g., pond edges). |
It is important to choose the correct IP rating that matches the environmental conditions of the installation location to ensure the functionality and safety of the electrical system.
A complete wall socket consists of several parts that work together to provide safe power access. It starts with the base element, the core of the socket. The electrical wires (live, neutral, and, if present, the earth wire) are connected to this part. The central plate is placed over the base, the visible center piece with the openings where the plug is inserted. Finally, the cover frame is mounted around the central plate. This frame ensures a neat finish and determines the final appearance of the installation on the wall. For proper fit and safe operation, it is essential that the base element, central plate, and cover frame are from the same brand and preferably the same series. Leading manufacturers such as Gira, Jung, Busch-Jaeger, and Schneider Electric Merten offer complete ranges of switching material compatible within their own product lines.
Proper installation of wall sockets contributes to the safe and long-lasting functioning of your electrical system. Here are some important points for the installer:
Choose the right mounting box: For flush-mounted wall sockets, selecting the correct mounting box depends on the wall type. There are specific mounting boxes for hollow walls, solid stone, or concrete walls. A properly chosen box provides a sturdy and stable fixing for the wall socket.
Check the wiring: For connecting a wall socket with protective earth, at least three wires are required: live (brown), neutral (blue), and earth (yellow/green). Ensure that the wiring of the circuit meets current standards and that the correct wire gauge is used.
Safety first: Always turn off the power at the relevant group in the distribution board before starting any work on the electrical installation. Then use a voltage tester to check that the power is actually off. This prevents electric shocks and accidents.
Multiple connection points: If you need multiple power points in one location, it’s more practical to choose a multiple wall socket, such as a double or triple version. This results in a tidier appearance, a safer installation, and a better finish than placing several single sockets side by side.
Logical placement: When planning the installation, consider the function of the room and its layout. Place wall sockets at accessible and logical heights, taking into account furniture and equipment that may be placed in front of them. This enhances convenience and prevents hassles with extension cords later on.
Can wall sockets be installed in the bathroom? Yes, that is possible, provided the wall socket has the correct IP rating and is installed at a safe distance from water sources. The NEN 1010 standard specifies zones and requirements for electrical installations in bathrooms, which must be strictly followed to prevent dangerous situations.
What distinguishes a Perilex wall socket? A Perilex wall socket is a type of power socket for three-phase current, commonly found in homes with electric cooktops or for connecting heat pumps. These are recognized by their five pins and differ from standard household sockets used for everyday appliances.
Are there wall sockets available with USB ports? Absolutely, there are an increasing number of wall sockets on the market equipped with built-in USB ports (both Type A and Type C). This is a convenient solution for charging mobile phones, tablets, and other USB devices, reducing the need for separate adapters in the socket.
Carefully selecting and installing wall sockets contributes to a safe, functional, and future-proof electrical installation in any space. If you are unsure about the correct approach or in complex situations, it is always advisable to consult a qualified electrician.