How are pull-out sockets for a countertop arranged and how to install them yourself

Home appliances that provide comfort at home and in the office, need to be connected to an 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 the countertop. 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

Built-in power connector block is an original invention 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 closet, table or countertop. They serve as an alternative to an extension cord, while at the same time 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 be provided with a 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 the other 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 plugs of devices.

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 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 wall 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 drawer 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 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 cable length.

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:

Fixing 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 fixing the drawer and, having slightly pressed on the top cover, hide the whole 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 into a convenient position 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 turning block of sockets is hidden by pressing the corresponding mechanism from above. Its connection to the mains is carried out using a cable located at the bottom. Some models do not include a cable in the kit. 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 choose 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 cable needed to connect. 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 market includes products of companies: 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, choosing the optimal model, it should be carefully examined for any 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 on 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 food and rest 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.

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, a shock may occur.

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 of 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 popular articles our site.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

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 wall outlet built into 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.