Socket

A socket is much more than an inconspicuous power supply on the wall. Find out here which sockets are available and why you can never have enough of them. In addition to buttons and switches, sockets are among the most important products of all manufacturers of switch programs. A socket is installed either permanently on a wall (surface-mounted socket) or recessed (flush-mounted socket). Sockets can also be part of a mobile line coupling, such as table or multiple sockets. There are also sockets on extensions that are intended for mobile use. A socket is mostly used for the power supply. There are also sockets for telephone / telecommunications and for the data transmission sockets. Devices are usually supplied with single-phase alternating current (in Europe 230 volts) or three-phase alternating current (three-phase current with 400 volts) via classic sockets. There are also standardized sockets for 12V direct current. There are separate socket systems for the supply of higher voltages and currents.

Basic information about sockets - in a nutshell

  • A distinction is made between the flush-mounting and surface-mounting types. With the flush-mounted variant, sockets are mounted in switch boxes, which in turn are embedded in the wall. In the 'surface-mounted' variant, sockets are attached to existing walls, usually with dowels and screws.
  • Double sockets are usually nothing more than two single sockets. They obtain the energy from the same supply line. Flush-mounted variants can be optically connected to one another via the frames of the switch range. With surface-mounted devices, both sockets are supplied in one housing.
  • A socket insert is a device for installation in the switch box. It is either attached using claws (clamp connection) or by screwing the base plate of the insert to the screw holes of the switch box. The insert must be supplemented by the frame of the switch range.
  • High-quality moisture-proof sockets usually have a self-closing cover and a rubber seal around the base. They are used in bathrooms, kitchens or utility rooms.
  • Outdoor sockets must protect the current-carrying cables from rain and snow. Their housings are often particularly stable in order to prevent damage from mechanical influences.
  • The degree of protection is a determining variable for the place of use. The best known is the two-digit IP protection class (IP = International Protection / Ingress Protection). The first digit stands for protection against contact and foreign bodies, the second digit for protection against water. The higher both digits, the safer.

 

Planning of sockets - there is no such thing as too much

If I were to build a house again, I would do many things differently.' You hear it very often like this or something similar when you talk to builders. Not infrequently, the planning and implementation of the electrical installation is one of the things that could be better. It is often the insufficient number of sockets that makes everyday life unnecessarily cumbersome. For example, if there is no socket in a dark corner of the room, you must lay an extension cord for the lamp. You probably won't connect very many electronic devices in a bathroom. A living room is usually equipped with many devices and is occasionally rearranged. Many sockets offer flexibility here.

 


TIP:

Sockets are very cheap to buy compared to the whole building. Do not plan too tightly, but generously.


 

But positioning also plays an important role. Plan ahead with the layout of your home, the furnishings, and the purpose of the room. Think about the different uses throughout the year. For example, the following are often overlooked:

  • Sockets in the window reveal to supply the Christmas lights
  • Sockets at ceiling height for extractor hoods, infrared heaters and the like
  • Sockets in the attic (for later expansion)
  • the right sockets in hobby rooms, if necessary for devices that require three-phase current
  • Outside sockets on the balcony or terrace
  • Outdoor sockets near a cistern or water barrel to feed a pump
  • Outside sockets in the carport or near storage areas for wood and the like
  • Outside sockets on the property line / driveway

 

The Schuko sockets in the eibabo® online shop

There are many types of sockets. The so-called Schuko socket is the standard in Europe. The abbreviation SchuKo stands for 'protective contact' and is a designation for the German-speaking area. Internationally, these devices are referred to as type F sockets. Cables with three cores are connected to sockets of this design, one of which serves as a protective contact. This derives leakage currents. The matching plugs (e.g. on electrical devices) are also constructed according to this principle. In this catalogue, we present you with high-quality sockets from over 30 manufacturers, including Gira, Jung, Merten, Hager, Berker, Legrand BTicino, Busch-Jaeger and Siemens.

How much load can a single socket withstand?

A classic 230 volt household circuit is usually protected with 16 ampere fuses. This results in a maximum load capacity of the circuit of 3680 watts (16 amps x 230 volts). This means that you could theoretically draw 3,600 watts of power from a standard household socket.

 


Notice

When it comes to electrical installation, it is advisable never to push individual devices to their capacity limits. In practice, about 2500 watts should not be exceeded at a socket.


 

Based on Central European standards, 200 watts to 300 watts per individual socket is assumed in everyday use. With double sockets it is up to 500 watts. You should take this guideline into account when planning the maximum number of outlets per circuit for your installation.

Does eibabo® also offer sockets of other standards?

eibabo® is an international online mail order company and offers sockets that are common outside of Europe. The best-known form is the NEMA standard, which is not used in Europe (with a few exceptions). NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturers Association and describes a whole range of different sockets and power plugs. These are commonplace in America, such as the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Type B (NEMA-5-15) single-phase AC power is most commonly used in the United States. The regular operating voltage is 120 V, the mains frequency is 60 Hz. NEMA-6 series connectors are intended for heavy loads such as electric ovens. The NEMA system is also in use in parts of Asia, including Japan and Thailand, China and the Philippines. In addition, at eibabo® you will find sockets according to British Standard, Swiss Standard or Australian Standard.

How do I integrate a standard Schuko socket into the smart home?

An existing socket can be easily expanded in terms of functionality using a WLAN socket. As a rule, these are adapter plugs that you plug into the existing socket. These represent a link between the end device and the socket. An associated application (software) enables the connection to the home network. But it doesn't have to be WiFi. Other models use Zigbee, Z-Wave and Bluetooth as radio technology. If your electrical installation is just being planned, we recommend reserving a few sockets for your smart home. Then you have the option of using the corresponding flush-mounted sockets. These look visually appealing like classic sockets. You no longer need an additional adapter plug.

Already knew?

At the beginning of the electricity age, sockets and light switches were considered status symbols. Those who were self-respecting presented the electrical installation of the house 'surface-mounted' and clearly visible to everyone.


The advantages of such sockets are, on the one hand, that the devices connected to the sockets can be disconnected from the power supply quickly and easily via the smart home system. In this way, the devices do not run on standby and save electricity. On the other hand, you can operate the sockets when you are not at home. If such a device is compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa, you can use it to control it.

What is the difference to a socket with increased contact protection?

At first glance, a socket with increased contact protection can hardly be distinguished from a classic socket. Some manufacturers mark such a model with a small symbol on the case.

Source: eibabo®, Gira 045327 Schuko socket outlet with child protectionImage: Gira 045327 Schuko socket outlet with child protection

Sockets with increased contact protection have an additional internal safety device that can vary depending on the manufacturer. In some models, this consists of rotary vanes. These open when both pins of a connector exert pressure on them at the same time. With other systems, the central insert can be rotated. So no object can be inserted into the holes of the socket. The installation of such sockets is recommended, for example, where children may have access to them.

 


In other words

The designation 'Schuko' for protective contact has nothing to do with protection against accidental contact. Protection against accidental contact must also be provided.


 

An alternative to the socket with increased protection against accidental contact can be separate socket protection. These plug into a standard socket and often work with a twist or slide motion as well. It is very safe with socket locks or lockable flaps.

Why should I lock an outlet?

Sockets are everywhere. These cannot always be monitored. In times of constantly rising energy costs, one often hears about electricity being stolen unnoticed via a hidden socket. This is made particularly easy for thieves if the socket is publicly accessible. Even if animals, children or other vulnerable people are constantly in the immediate vicinity of the socket, we recommend a lock. Lockable sockets or socket locks are available in the eibabo® shop at reasonable prices. Use our intelligent search.

Are there sockets for other areas of application?

In addition to classic sockets for everyday use, there are sockets in special shapes. You may need sockets in a place where neither a flush-mounted socket nor a surface-mounted socket is possible. A classic example is the junction box. Here you need a socket with mounting options on the DIN rail. Such models are often adapted in width to the pitch units in the junction box. Another special form are the so-called CEE sockets. These are available in the strengths 16 A, 32 A, 63 A and 125 A and are equipped with three to seven pins. Different colors represent the appropriate nominal voltage. The eibabo® shop offers CEE sockets and sockets for the junction box in separate catalogues.

 

eibabo - technology store

 

Catalogue content:


In this eibabo® catalogue Domestic switching devices > Socket outlet you will find items from the following product groups:

Item overview:

  • Bike socket
  • Brightness sensor
  • Concealed inserts
  • Data socket insert
  • Fine protection
  • Flange socket
  • Ground pin
  • Hinged cover socket
  • Hospital
  • Household wall box
  • Installation socket
  • Installation switch
  • Machine socket
  • Overvoltage protection
  • Pin contact
  • Protective contact wall box
  • Recording module
  • Room temperature controller
  • Schuko socket
  • Schuko wall box
  • Screw fixing
  • Socket connector
  • Socket cover
  • Spare part
  • Special device
  • Surface-mounted housing
  • Touch protection
  • Waterproof


from the following manufacturers:

Manufacturer overview catalogue Socket:

  • ABL
  • ABN
  • Bachmann
  • BEGA Gantenbrink
  • Berker
  • Busch Jaeger
  • E+P Elektrik
  • Eaton
  • Elsner
  • Elso
  • Eltako
  • EVN
  • Gira
  • Hager
  • Hama
  • Hera
  • HHG
  • Jung
  • Kleinhuis
  • Legrand Bticino
  • Legrand SEKO
  • Lütze
  • Mennekes
  • Merten
  • Murrelektronik
  • OBO
  • Peha
  • Phoenix
  • Pollmann
  • Schneider Electric
  • Siemens
  • Stahl
  • Striebel & John
  • Tehalit
  • Walther


 
A socket is much more than an inconspicuous power supply on the wall. Find out here which sockets are available and why you can never have enough of them. In addition to buttons and switches,... read more »
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Sockets - Indispensable in every house.

A socket is much more than an inconspicuous power supply on the wall. Find out here which sockets are available and why you can never have enough of them. In addition to buttons and switches, sockets are among the most important products of all manufacturers of switch programs. A socket is installed either permanently on a wall (surface-mounted socket) or recessed (flush-mounted socket). Sockets can also be part of a mobile line coupling, such as table or multiple sockets. There are also sockets on extensions that are intended for mobile use. A socket is mostly used for the power supply. There are also sockets for telephone / telecommunications and for the data transmission sockets. Devices are usually supplied with single-phase alternating current (in Europe 230 volts) or three-phase alternating current (three-phase current with 400 volts) via classic sockets. There are also standardized sockets for 12V direct current. There are separate socket systems for the supply of higher voltages and currents.

Basic information about sockets - in a nutshell

  • A distinction is made between the flush-mounting and surface-mounting types. With the flush-mounted variant, sockets are mounted in switch boxes, which in turn are embedded in the wall. In the 'surface-mounted' variant, sockets are attached to existing walls, usually with dowels and screws.
  • Double sockets are usually nothing more than two single sockets. They obtain the energy from the same supply line. Flush-mounted variants can be optically connected to one another via the frames of the switch range. With surface-mounted devices, both sockets are supplied in one housing.
  • A socket insert is a device for installation in the switch box. It is either attached using claws (clamp connection) or by screwing the base plate of the insert to the screw holes of the switch box. The insert must be supplemented by the frame of the switch range.
  • High-quality moisture-proof sockets usually have a self-closing cover and a rubber seal around the base. They are used in bathrooms, kitchens or utility rooms.
  • Outdoor sockets must protect the current-carrying cables from rain and snow. Their housings are often particularly stable in order to prevent damage from mechanical influences.
  • The degree of protection is a determining variable for the place of use. The best known is the two-digit IP protection class (IP = International Protection / Ingress Protection). The first digit stands for protection against contact and foreign bodies, the second digit for protection against water. The higher both digits, the safer.

 

Planning of sockets - there is no such thing as too much

If I were to build a house again, I would do many things differently.' You hear it very often like this or something similar when you talk to builders. Not infrequently, the planning and implementation of the electrical installation is one of the things that could be better. It is often the insufficient number of sockets that makes everyday life unnecessarily cumbersome. For example, if there is no socket in a dark corner of the room, you must lay an extension cord for the lamp. You probably won't connect very many electronic devices in a bathroom. A living room is usually equipped with many devices and is occasionally rearranged. Many sockets offer flexibility here.

 


TIP:

Sockets are very cheap to buy compared to the whole building. Do not plan too tightly, but generously.


 

But positioning also plays an important role. Plan ahead with the layout of your home, the furnishings, and the purpose of the room. Think about the different uses throughout the year. For example, the following are often overlooked:

  • Sockets in the window reveal to supply the Christmas lights
  • Sockets at ceiling height for extractor hoods, infrared heaters and the like
  • Sockets in the attic (for later expansion)
  • the right sockets in hobby rooms, if necessary for devices that require three-phase current
  • Outside sockets on the balcony or terrace
  • Outdoor sockets near a cistern or water barrel to feed a pump
  • Outside sockets in the carport or near storage areas for wood and the like
  • Outside sockets on the property line / driveway

 

The Schuko sockets in the eibabo® online shop

There are many types of sockets. The so-called Schuko socket is the standard in Europe. The abbreviation SchuKo stands for 'protective contact' and is a designation for the German-speaking area. Internationally, these devices are referred to as type F sockets. Cables with three cores are connected to sockets of this design, one of which serves as a protective contact. This derives leakage currents. The matching plugs (e.g. on electrical devices) are also constructed according to this principle. In this catalogue, we present you with high-quality sockets from over 30 manufacturers, including Gira, Jung, Merten, Hager, Berker, Legrand BTicino, Busch-Jaeger and Siemens.

How much load can a single socket withstand?

A classic 230 volt household circuit is usually protected with 16 ampere fuses. This results in a maximum load capacity of the circuit of 3680 watts (16 amps x 230 volts). This means that you could theoretically draw 3,600 watts of power from a standard household socket.

 


Notice

When it comes to electrical installation, it is advisable never to push individual devices to their capacity limits. In practice, about 2500 watts should not be exceeded at a socket.


 

Based on Central European standards, 200 watts to 300 watts per individual socket is assumed in everyday use. With double sockets it is up to 500 watts. You should take this guideline into account when planning the maximum number of outlets per circuit for your installation.

Does eibabo® also offer sockets of other standards?

eibabo® is an international online mail order company and offers sockets that are common outside of Europe. The best-known form is the NEMA standard, which is not used in Europe (with a few exceptions). NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturers Association and describes a whole range of different sockets and power plugs. These are commonplace in America, such as the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Type B (NEMA-5-15) single-phase AC power is most commonly used in the United States. The regular operating voltage is 120 V, the mains frequency is 60 Hz. NEMA-6 series connectors are intended for heavy loads such as electric ovens. The NEMA system is also in use in parts of Asia, including Japan and Thailand, China and the Philippines. In addition, at eibabo® you will find sockets according to British Standard, Swiss Standard or Australian Standard.

How do I integrate a standard Schuko socket into the smart home?

An existing socket can be easily expanded in terms of functionality using a WLAN socket. As a rule, these are adapter plugs that you plug into the existing socket. These represent a link between the end device and the socket. An associated application (software) enables the connection to the home network. But it doesn't have to be WiFi. Other models use Zigbee, Z-Wave and Bluetooth as radio technology. If your electrical installation is just being planned, we recommend reserving a few sockets for your smart home. Then you have the option of using the corresponding flush-mounted sockets. These look visually appealing like classic sockets. You no longer need an additional adapter plug.

Already knew?

At the beginning of the electricity age, sockets and light switches were considered status symbols. Those who were self-respecting presented the electrical installation of the house 'surface-mounted' and clearly visible to everyone.


The advantages of such sockets are, on the one hand, that the devices connected to the sockets can be disconnected from the power supply quickly and easily via the smart home system. In this way, the devices do not run on standby and save electricity. On the other hand, you can operate the sockets when you are not at home. If such a device is compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa, you can use it to control it.

What is the difference to a socket with increased contact protection?

At first glance, a socket with increased contact protection can hardly be distinguished from a classic socket. Some manufacturers mark such a model with a small symbol on the case.

Source: eibabo®, Gira 045327 Schuko socket outlet with child protectionImage: Gira 045327 Schuko socket outlet with child protection

Sockets with increased contact protection have an additional internal safety device that can vary depending on the manufacturer. In some models, this consists of rotary vanes. These open when both pins of a connector exert pressure on them at the same time. With other systems, the central insert can be rotated. So no object can be inserted into the holes of the socket. The installation of such sockets is recommended, for example, where children may have access to them.

 


In other words

The designation 'Schuko' for protective contact has nothing to do with protection against accidental contact. Protection against accidental contact must also be provided.


 

An alternative to the socket with increased protection against accidental contact can be separate socket protection. These plug into a standard socket and often work with a twist or slide motion as well. It is very safe with socket locks or lockable flaps.

Why should I lock an outlet?

Sockets are everywhere. These cannot always be monitored. In times of constantly rising energy costs, one often hears about electricity being stolen unnoticed via a hidden socket. This is made particularly easy for thieves if the socket is publicly accessible. Even if animals, children or other vulnerable people are constantly in the immediate vicinity of the socket, we recommend a lock. Lockable sockets or socket locks are available in the eibabo® shop at reasonable prices. Use our intelligent search.

Are there sockets for other areas of application?

In addition to classic sockets for everyday use, there are sockets in special shapes. You may need sockets in a place where neither a flush-mounted socket nor a surface-mounted socket is possible. A classic example is the junction box. Here you need a socket with mounting options on the DIN rail. Such models are often adapted in width to the pitch units in the junction box. Another special form are the so-called CEE sockets. These are available in the strengths 16 A, 32 A, 63 A and 125 A and are equipped with three to seven pins. Different colors represent the appropriate nominal voltage. The eibabo® shop offers CEE sockets and sockets for the junction box in separate catalogues.

 

eibabo - technology store

 

Catalogue content:


In this eibabo® catalogue Domestic switching devices > Socket outlet you will find items from the following product groups:

Item overview:

  • Bike socket
  • Brightness sensor
  • Concealed inserts
  • Data socket insert
  • Fine protection
  • Flange socket
  • Ground pin
  • Hinged cover socket
  • Hospital
  • Household wall box
  • Installation socket
  • Installation switch
  • Machine socket
  • Overvoltage protection
  • Pin contact
  • Protective contact wall box
  • Recording module
  • Room temperature controller
  • Schuko socket
  • Schuko wall box
  • Screw fixing
  • Socket connector
  • Socket cover
  • Spare part
  • Special device
  • Surface-mounted housing
  • Touch protection
  • Waterproof


from the following manufacturers:

Manufacturer overview catalogue Socket:

  • ABL
  • ABN
  • Bachmann
  • BEGA Gantenbrink
  • Berker
  • Busch Jaeger
  • E+P Elektrik
  • Eaton
  • Elsner
  • Elso
  • Eltako
  • EVN
  • Gira
  • Hager
  • Hama
  • Hera
  • HHG
  • Jung
  • Kleinhuis
  • Legrand Bticino
  • Legrand SEKO
  • Lütze
  • Mennekes
  • Merten
  • Murrelektronik
  • OBO
  • Peha
  • Phoenix
  • Pollmann
  • Schneider Electric
  • Siemens
  • Stahl
  • Striebel & John
  • Tehalit
  • Walther
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Busch Jaeger - 20 EUC-914 - Schuko socket insert alpine white - Socket outlet (receptacle) 20 EUC-914
$3.94 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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($8.84 RRP***)
Schuko socket insert alpine white - Socket outlet (receptacle)
Busch Jaeger
| 20 EUC-914
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Rehau - 1FACHDOSE grün - Steckdose signo ZB, grün, 1fach, ohne Rahmen 1FACHDOSE grün
$6.63 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Socket outlet 1FACHDOSE grün
Rehau
| 1FACHDOSE grün
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Busch Jaeger - 20/2 EW-53 - Schuko socket 2-fold, horizontal, gray/blue-green 20/2 EW-53
$19.39 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Schuko socket 2-fold, horizontal, gray/blue-green
Busch Jaeger
| 20/2 EW-53
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Busch Jaeger - 20 EUC-84 - Socket insert davos/studioweiß 20 EUC-84
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Busch Jaeger
| 20 EUC-84
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Busch Jaeger - 20 EUC-885 - Socket insert matt black - Socket outlet (receptacle) 20 EUC-885
$10.34 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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($20.04 RRP***)
Socket insert matt black - Socket outlet (receptacle)
Busch Jaeger
| 20 EUC-885
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Jung - A 1520 WW - Schuko socket alpine white A 1520 WW
$4.06 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Schuko socket alpine white
Jung
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Busch Jaeger - 20 EUC-214 - Socket insert alpine white with plug connection 20 EUC-214
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Socket insert alpine white with plug connection
Busch Jaeger
| 20 EUC-214
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Berker - 941852502 - Schuko plug polar white with screw terminals - Socket outlet (receptacle) 941852502
$4.08 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Schuko plug polar white with screw terminals - Socket outlet (receptacle)
Berker
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Busch Jaeger - 3015 EWN-53 - Socket - Socket outlet (receptacle) NEMA yellow 3015 EWN-53
$36.62 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Socket - Socket outlet (receptacle) NEMA yellow
Busch Jaeger
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Jung - A 1520-13 BF SEV WW - Socket alpine white Swiss standard - Socket outlet (receptacle) A 1520-13 BF SEV WW
$29.21 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Socket alpine white Swiss standard - Socket outlet (receptacle)
Jung
| A 1520-13 BF SEV WW
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Busch Jaeger - 20 EUCB-914 - Schuko socket insert alpine white - Socket outlet (receptacle) 20 EUCB-914
$5.23 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Schuko socket insert alpine white - Socket outlet (receptacle)
Busch Jaeger
| 20 EUCB-914
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Gira - 418803 - Pure white socket - Socket outlet protective contact 418803
$4.23 incl. VAT ($0.00)

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Pure white socket - Socket outlet protective contact
Gira
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