How retractable countertop sockets work and how to install them yourself
Household appliances that provide comfort at home and in the office need to be connected to an electrical network.A large number of overhead sockets will not become a highlight in the interior design, regardless of the purpose of the room.
An excellent solution in such cases would be retractable sockets for the tabletop. Easy-to-use devices help 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, specifics of operation and installation of mobile types of electric points. The information is supplemented with photos, diagrams and video presentations.
The content of the article:
Types and features of retractable sockets
The built-in power connector block is an original invention socket manufacturers. It is easy to use and can fit harmoniously into any room.
World-famous manufacturers of sockets offer the buyer more and more advanced models and variations of such designs.
Classification of blocks built into countertops
A stylish solution for a studio kitchen or office space would be built-in sockets in a cabinet, table or countertop.They serve as an alternative to an extension cord, while at the same time being a more advanced version of it. After all, it is not always appropriate to use a regular extension cord, especially when it comes to a conference room or food preparation room.
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 specific model in question. Also, in addition to standard plugs, they can provide USB, HDMI, and Internet connections.
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.
You can often find models with 2, 3, 5 or more connectors, located one behind the other in height. These socket blocks can be used to connect not only kitchen appliances, but also a laptop, a charger for any type of mobile phone, and non-standard appliance plugs.
According to their design features, sockets built into the surface of furniture are divided into:
- retractable;
- rotary.
Retractable blocks, depending on the specific model, can be rotated around their axis by 180, 360 degrees. Some manufacturers offer backlit sockets, which can create a special atmosphere in the room.
Rotary built-in sockets are considered more reliable in operation. Their main disadvantage is the difficulty in using devices with a side plug type.
Built-in outlet blocks can be placed in the following locations:
- in a wall cabinet;
- in the countertop/table;
- in the groove between the countertop and the wall.
Built-in designs of socket blocks can be called universal, because the same model can be installed both in a wall cabinet and in a countertop. There is no fundamental difference in the installation location for such models.
One of the most important characteristics of any type of outlet is its degree of protection. Pull-out models for the kitchen should be taken with a value of IP44. After all, in this room there is a high level of humidity, and there is a risk of small particles of grease and dust getting in.
Features of retractable structures
In terms of convenience and necessity, retractable sockets can be compared with built-in kitchen appliances. They not only save space, but also make life easier.After all, there is no need to lay a separate line to install the missing number of stationary connection points to the power grid.
Sockets 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.
Most often, the connectors are grounded. The unit is equipped with a cable 1 to 3 meters long and a plug for connecting to the network.
The fork of the retractable block can be stationary or collapsible. If everything is clear with the stationary version - you have plugged it 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 operating principle of the retractable vertical block is quite simple. When not in use, this design is completely hidden in a secluded place - under the countertop/in the wall cabinet.
If you need to connect a coffee grinder or other household appliance, you need to press the top protective cover of the retractable socket. It will open a couple of centimeters. Next, you just need to pull the entire block up until it locks into place.
The specifics of operating a retractable socket are shown schematically in the following selection:
Fixation occurs using a special button installed by the manufacturer at the bottom of the block. You can turn on household appliances without being distracted by searching for an extension cord or a free outlet on your work apron.
When the need for an additional power connector disappears, it is enough to press out the mechanism fixing the retractable block and, lightly pressing on the top cover, hide the entire structure in its permanent place.
Vertical models can be equipped with LED backlighting, additional inputs for audio/video equipment and other types of connectors. Also, depending on individual features, there are blocks that can be hidden in the countertop along with the plugs of household appliances included in them.
The rotating pull-out socket block is hidden in the countertop when not in use. When you need to use one of its connectors to connect an electrical appliance to the network, just press the special button on top.
Some models have a mechanism that is activated when you press the lid. When this is triggered, a block emerges from the tabletop, rotating the power connectors to a position convenient for use.
The rotation angle depends on the characteristics of the model - about 180 degrees.The specific value must be indicated in the manufacturer's instructions.
The rotary block of sockets is hidden by pressing the corresponding mechanism on top. Its connection to the electrical network is carried out using a cable located at the bottom. Some models do not include a cable included. You will have to buy a suitable wire yourself, taking into account the technical characteristics of the unit.
Features of selection and installation of retractable sockets
The sudden need for additional points for connecting electrical appliances can be satisfied by a retractable socket. Its installation is not particularly difficult. It is important to choose a model that can fulfill all the requirements placed on it. Then the process of operation itself will bring only positive emotions.
Information for making a smart purchase
The socket market is replete with tempting options from the most famous manufacturers. In order to select a suitable model among the mass of proposals that corresponds to your ideas about the relationship between quality and price, you need to clearly formulate the requirements.
Firstly, you have to decide 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 have to purchase 2 or 3 built-in structures.
Secondly, we must not forget about power.Each model is designed for the maximum permissible load that it can withstand. This information is also needed to understand what section is the cable? 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 load the outlet block model you like can withstand, just read its technical characteristics given by the manufacturer in the instructions.
Thirdly, the manufacturer matters. The products of the following companies are presented on the market: German Evoline, Italian Simon Connect, Russian Ekoplast, French Schneider Electric, Swiss Kondator, Polish GTV. Pull-out sockets are made of high quality materials.
Manufacturers who have been supplying their products to the market for more than one year are fully responsible for their quality. But there are also cheaper analogues produced by Chinese companies - Desc Socket and Displace. These socket blocks visually resemble their original prototypes, but that's where the similarities end.
Pull-out sockets from Chinese companies are made of cheaper materials, so after 4-6 months they begin to deteriorate. First, the block begins to live its own life, not responding to the user’s needs. It opens and closes spontaneously, and after a while it stops working.
Fourthly, you need to select an option that matches the color scheme of the room.Manufacturers pay special attention to this issue, offering different color solutions for the same model - metal, gold, bronze, black, white and others.
Fifthly, having selected the optimal model, you should carefully examine it for the presence of external damage and defects. You also need to check the contents and functionality of the purchased device.
Sixthly, you need to pay attention to the degree of protection specified by the manufacturer in the instructions. It’s good when this value is IP44 if it is to be installed in the kitchen. IP20 is sufficient for a room or office.
Selecting a device location
At the stage of calculating the required number of inputs for connecting to the electrical network, it is necessary to decide where exactly the socket blocks will be located. It is important here that the place is convenient and easily accessible.
If built-in sockets are to be installed in an office table located in a meeting room, then you need to take into account 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 connection should be commensurate with the number of employees participating in the discussion of business processes.
When placing socket blocks built into a countertop/cabinet in a home, the rule of convenience and accessibility is also relevant. At the same time, we must not forget about safety.If the retractable socket will be installed in the kitchen, then you need to choose the right location for it.
It is strictly forbidden to install retractable units in the following places:
- above/under the stove;
- above/under the sink;
- next to the stove/sink.
These requirements are dictated by safety regulations. After all, water ingress can lead to a short circuit. You should maintain a distance of 60 cm from water and fire.
If the socket built into the countertop is located very close to the sink, it can become unusable at any time. While washing dishes, it is possible that water may spill on a nearby countertop. And the protective cover of the retractable socket is not sealed and will not be able to protect against water penetration into the mechanism.
The optimal places for placing built-in units are the work area of the countertop, which is actively used by the housewife for preparing dishes, as well as the eating and relaxing area for all family members.
If it is more expedient to place a block of 3-5 power connectors in the work area, then a block of combined connectors will be more needed in the rest area. Then all family members will be able, if necessary, to connect their mobile devices.
Self-installation of built-in structures
You can install retractable sockets yourself. To do this, you will need a minimal set of tools - after all, you won’t have to drill into walls or lay a separate power line.
The main difficulty in installation is cutting a hole in the tabletop. 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 cannot do without special skills.
If the question of how to independently install sockets in a glass tabletop arose before ordering a kitchen set, then it is better to order the holes for them from the furniture manufacturer. Without experience working with such material, you can ruin an expensive surface.
In the case where making a hole is not difficult, you can safely begin installing the retractable block. To do this, you need to mark the installation location, guided by the actual dimensions indicated in the instructions. Each model will have its own.
Having finished marking, you have to carefully cut the hole. Then, using the included fasteners included in the kit, secure the sockets tightly. If you install a retractable unit with a cable and plug, you will only need to plug it into a regular outlet. The length of the cable allows you to reach even a very distant electrical point behind the cabinet.
If there is no such socket, then the built-in structure can be connected directly to the supply wire, connecting the corresponding wires in turn. Here it is important to de-energize the line you are going to work with. Otherwise you may get an electric shock.
If the purchased model does not have a cable with a plug, you will need to connect the seats using pieces of wire 15-20 cm long.Then connect the power cable, leading it into the hole in the box body. The ends of the wires must be stripped, freed from insulation, and connected to the socket mechanism in accordance with the markings.
Having finished working with the wires, you can turn on the power to the line and check the functionality of the installed retractable socket.
You will find information about installation rules and the sequence of installation of a stationary socket block in one of popular articles our site.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Video #1. Video about a horizontal socket block built into a countertop from a Polish manufacturer:
Video #2. Overview of the use of a vertical outlet built into a countertop/cabinet:
Video #3. A visual video about the operation of a vertical retractable socket built into the countertop:
Having given preference to blocks of electrical connectors built into the countertop, it is important to choose the optimal model. You can install it yourself by following the installation instructions. This design will add zest to a modern interior and will significantly save useful space in the room.
Do you want to talk about how you installed a retractable socket with your own hands, or about how you have been using this convenient device for many years? Do you have any questions or find controversial points in the text? Please comment in the block below.
In the kitchen, fencing such a structure is a dubious pleasure. The entire kitchen space should be accessible for washing, because if you actually cook in the kitchen, then all the cracks, grooves and gaps eventually fill with a mixture of grease and dust, which is difficult to remove. But office examples look good.And it’s easier to clean there—you brush off the dust and that’s it.
Yes, I was also dissuaded from installing retractable sockets in the kitchen for this reason. Plus, it makes sense to install them when you use an appliance that is plugged in from time to time, but in our kitchen both the microwave and the multicooker are constantly on and the socket would be pulled out all the time.
What they can’t come up with these days. Built-in sockets look very modern and stylish, but many questions arise: can they be built into any table? Will the table material crack, etc.? It seems that for these sockets and tables you need to buy special ones - powerful and durable. In addition, the plugs are different, this point must also be taken into account.
If desired, this type of sockets can be built anywhere, from a wooden table to a stone countertop. But whether you need it if you have a kitchen and countertops made of expensive stone is a big question. I strongly doubt that if you order a kitchen for 800 thousand and forget to specify retractable sockets, you will suddenly want to install them after some time. In short, they most likely take place if they are initially approved by the design of the kitchen or table. In other cases, this is a real and unfounded hemorrhage.
Hello. An ordinary table is also suitable, in which a hole of a suitable size is made and such a socket is installed. There will be no cracks if everything is carefully cut out with a jigsaw, especially since it usually has decorative overlays.
As for the thickness of the tabletop, most often manufacturers recommend using a material with a thickness of 15 mm or more, but in general, the recommended surface parameters are indicated in the device data sheet.
Very interesting, this is the first time I’ve seen such devices. These sockets look original, stylish and unusual. I planned a kitchen renovation and really liked the option with a pull-out socket in the wall cabinet. This is very convenient - the socket is hidden, nothing will get into it: neither grease, nor dust. I’ll tell the repairmen that they installed this for me, but I still shouldn’t clutter up the kitchen.
Tell me, if there is a heating radiator in the kitchen cabinet, at what distance from it can a retractable socket be installed? And they also write that for rotating horizontal sockets it is problematic to connect a curved plug: is it impossible to connect it at all or what?