Extendable sockets for countertops

A modern apartment is literally “stuffed” with a variety of household appliances, which, for the most part, is powered by an electrical outlet. Therefore, even at the stage of developing a design project, it is necessary to determine the location and number of outlets. If with large-sized and built-in stationary equipment (refrigerator, stove, range hood, microwave, TV) no problems, then calculate the number of outlets needed for periodically used household appliances, very complicated. To do this, the number of frequently used devices (kettle, toaster, mixer, blender) is added up and an additional 2-3 pieces are added. But over time, the number of appliances "living" on the countertop increases. In order not to mount too long a series of sockets, you can use built-in retractable sockets for countertops or kitchen cabinets.

What is a drawer

Built-in extendable socket is a block of sockets of 3 or more pieces, enclosed in a durable case, equipped with a retractable mechanism by which the device is immersed in the countertop and with a light touch of a hand is removed from her.

Such a unit is a kind of alternative to extension cords and surge protectors and allows you to get rid of bundles of wires, "calloused eyes." There are currently several types of retractable devices on the market.

Vertical extendable tabletop outlet

The most commonly used device, an example of which is shown in the photo. However, this is not the most practical and durable design, since the “tower" towering above the surface is easily accidentally hit and damaged. In addition, inserting the plug into the outlet, a certain force is applied, which leads to the loosening of the retractable mechanism.

This type of device is ideal for small and irregular loads, and is also a stylish element of the interior, for example in high-tech style.

Horizontal pull-out socket

It differs from the vertical only in the location of the outlet block and, as a result, in the height of the extendable part. This design is significantly lower than the vertical, therefore, it is more durable and convenient to use. But a significant drawback of this model is the problematic connection of electrical appliances with a plug in the lateral design.

Retractable Swivel Outlet Block

Another type of device built into horizontal surfaces that facilitates the use of a large number of household appliances. This design is preferable for the arrangement of the kitchen worktop, as it is more reliable and ergonomic. The block is tightly fixed in the countertop and perfectly withstands numerous on / off plugs, which means it is strong and durable.

Unlike simple retractable options, such a unit is equipped with a rotary mechanism, which is triggered when you click on certain sections of the lid with your hand. After the working part has advanced, access to sockets and the device is fixed at a given angle.

The weak point of this design is the movable and locking mechanisms, which eventually come out of system, and the disadvantages, as for the previous model, include the connection of a side plug with a sticking up wire.

Currently, the following types of built-in sockets are also gaining popularity:

• mortise - mounted in the countertop and equipped with a safety cover;
• angular - is installed at the joints of walls or at the bottom of a hanging cabinet.

Advantages and disadvantages

Such devices are gaining more and more popularity, as they have a number of advantages over conventional power supplies for electrical appliances. Their advantages are:

• Save time and space. Instead of searching and connecting an extension cord, splitter, surge protector, one movement of the hand is enough, with which the sockets are put forward. This also includes significant savings in precious space on the countertop (especially the kitchen), which is usually not enough for every housewife, in this regard, vertical retractable sockets win.

• Safety in operation, as in most cases, built-in sockets are not available for small children. Also increases the attractiveness of such models of outlets is the absence of wires getting tangled underfoot and protection against water entering them.
• The functionality of such a device, because each vertical or horizontal unit is designed to include several electrical appliances at once.

New models of retractable sockets may contain special connectors, for example, for charging mobile phones, for a television antenna, Internet connections, etc.

An important role in choosing this method of power supply is played by the aesthetic component, since the sliding outlet blocks, with On the one hand, they work as an independent part of a modern interior, and on the other, they help to “mask” numerous sockets.

Despite the many advantages of choosing such a device, it has several disadvantages:

• Retractable sockets are categorically not suitable for connecting stationary devices, the presence of a power tool constantly included in such a socket deprives it of all the advantages.
• Vertical blocks tend to loosen.
• Horizontal views are inconvenient when connecting plugs with side cords.

Selection and installation

When choosing retractable outlet blocks for countertops, in addition to the design solution (color, model, the presence of backlighting and additional options), you should pay attention to a number of important technical moments:

• First of all, the device should not have any mechanical damage, chips, scratches, etc.

• If you intend to connect a large number of electrical equipment (or high power devices), you should provide grounding.
• Socket units installed on the countertop in the bathroom or in the kitchen near the sink should have increased protection against moisture (marking IP 44).
• For greater convenience and extended service life, you can pay attention to the sockets with the additional function of pushing the plug at the touch of a button.

DIY do-it-yourself sockets in countertops not difficult. The device comes with a box and fasteners necessary for rigid fixation, as well as fuses against power surges. It is marked in the countertop, then a hole is cut out with a perforator with a suitable nozzle, in which the device is fixed. After installation, it remains to connect it to the mains.