Installing electrical switches and sockets is the final stage of any electrical installation. However, before it is made, a decision must be made regarding the type of electrical sockets and connectors (switches, switches). When choosing electrical equipment, you should pay attention primarily to its functionality and possible use in a given room, e.g. switches and flush-mounted sockets are used in electrical boxes previously recessed into the wall, while surface-mounted equipment is attached directly to the wall surface. Additionally, remember to ensure that the equipment is of high quality and lasts for years.
An important aspect when choosing electrical equipment is aesthetic value, because it is also a decorative element of the room. There is a very wide selection of switches on the market in various styles, colors and shapes, so even the most sophisticated tastes will certainly be satisfied.
In order to systematize knowledge about electrical switches and sockets, below we present their division according to their functions and type of installation.
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Electrical connectors
An electrical switch is a device with which we can switch on and off the operating current in low voltage installations.
Electrical switches can be divided into two groups: according to functionality and type of installation. The first group includes single-pole, double-pole, stair, cross, candlestick, blind and hotel switches. The second group includes recessed and surface-mounted ones.
Division of switches according to functionality
Single-pole switches – these are single switches with one button. They are mainly used for a single lighting circuit. Their installation is quick and not a problem.
Double-pole switches – similarly to single-pole switches, they are equipped with one button. Thanks to it, you can turn on two electrical circuits at the same time.
Stair switches – equipped with one button. They are usually used on stairs (installed at the bottom and top of the floor) because they work in pairs. They can be used to control one circuit in two different places.
Cross connectors – have one button. Their operation is connected with stair switches. They can be installed without quantitative restrictions (if there is a tall building, they can be located on every floor). They work best in multi-story buildings
Candlestick switches – equipped with two or more buttons. They are used when we want to turn on several circuits independently of each other (if the chandelier has 6 bulbs, one button will turn on 2 bulbs, and the other button will turn on another 4).
Blind switches – have one or two buttons. They allow only one button to be turned on at a time. They are usually used to control blinds (one button controls the lifting mechanism, the other – the lowering mechanism).
Hotel switches – enable switching on the circuit using a hotel card. After removing the card from the reader, the system allows the circuit to be connected for a specified period of time, which depends on the switch model.
Electric sockets
An electrical socket is a connector that is part of the electrical installation and is used to connect electrical energy receivers to it. It is also called a socket, plug socket or contact.
Similarly to switches, electrical sockets can be divided into two groups depending on functionality and type of installation. The first group includes installation, loudspeaker, antenna, multimedia and teleinformation sockets. The second group consists of flush-mounted and surface-mounted sockets.
Division of sockets according to functionality
Installation sockets – these are the most popular sockets available on the market. They are used to connect mobile and portable receivers (such as an oven, dryer or electric kettle) using an appropriate plug. Installation sockets have various tightness classes, the so-called IP index. The most common class is IP 20, which is used in rooms where there are no particular hazardous factors. However, in rooms with high humidity (e.g. bathrooms), sockets with IP 44 tightness class are used, the so-called splash-proof sockets (with a special flap). Sockets with complete protection against moisture have an IP 68 index (they have specially protected contacts).
Speaker sockets – used to connect speaker cables. They come in a single or multiple configuration. A maximum of 4 speakers can be connected to one speaker socket at the same time.
Antenna sockets – are usually selected for an existing radio and television network. They use them to transmit radio, television or satellite signals. Antenna sockets can be selected from F type, feed-through, terminal or termination type.
Multimedia sockets – are used to connect devices emitting image and sound. Depending on the model, they have different inputs (speaker, BNC, RCA, USB, HDMI, VGA). They help you quickly connect all your multimedia devices.
Telecommunication sockets – used to connect the telecommunications and Internet networks. Depending on the model, they have a different number of sockets.
Division of switches and sockets depending on the type of installation
Flush-mounted switches/ sockets – mounted in special boxes recessed into the wall. Their appearance is more aesthetic than surface-mounted sockets, and they are a decorative element of rooms. Installation of flush-mounted sockets is only possible if the electrical installation allows it. They are most often used in residential rooms with concealed electrical installations (cables hidden in the walls).
Surface-mounted connectors/sockets – mounted on the wall surface, do not require additional forging. They are most often installed outdoors or in utility rooms or basements. Surface-mounted switches and sockets are also used in buildings made of wood, where it is not possible to install a flush-mounted installation.
Frames for electrical equipment
Frames for switches and electrical sockets have both decorative and functional functions. For the frame to fulfill its function as a decorative element, it should be appropriately matched to the interior design. Its color and style should match the room where it will be installed and the installed electrical equipment. In addition to the visual aspect, frames also have a functional function. They are designed to protect the wall next to electrical sockets or connectors against excessive use. Signs of frequent use include: dirt or scratches. Depending on the user's preferences and installation options, the customer can choose single/multiple and horizontal/vertical frames.
Series of electrical equipment
Nowadays, manufacturers increasingly introduce new products to the market to meet customer expectations. They differ primarily in appearance and shape. They come in a wide range of colors, depending on the user's preferences.
The Onninen wholesaler offers a wide range of electrical equipment series from branded manufacturers, including: Onnline, Opal, Kontakt-Simon, Hager-Polo, Ospel, Legrand, Schneider and others. Below we present the most popular of them.
| ONNINEN ONLINE | ONNINEN OPAL | OSPEL SONATA | |||
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| ONNINEN ONNLINE are products that are Onninen's own brand. Their characteristic feature is solid workmanship, which means they will serve for years. This series includes connectors and sockets available in four colors. | The series belongs to the own brand of the Onninen wholesaler. There are various types of sockets (speaker sockets, RTV sockets, telephone sockets, computer sockets) and switches (candlestick sockets, stair sockets, blinds sockets, cross sockets). Products from this series are available in four colors: white, beige, satin and silver. | It is characterized by the highest technological standards. A characteristic feature of this series is a simple square. Products from this series are intended for all rooms in the house, apartment or office. The series includes various types of sockets and electrical connectors in various colors. | |||
| KONTAKT–SIMON CHORD | CONTACT–SIMON BASIC NEOS | CONTACT–SIMON SIMON 10 | |||
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| A series characterized by shorter sides from the base and back. Moreover, the series is distinguished by rounded corners. This series includes various types of connectors and sockets. It is addressed to customers who attach importance to originality and minimalism. | It consists mainly of frames that come in 7 colors, in 4 color lines (classic, metallic, decorative, rainbow). The Onninen wholesaler offers both splash-proof and ordinary frames. The undoubted advantage of frames from this series is that they can be mounted vertically and horizontally. | The series is intended mainly for rooms where a wide range of colors is not required. You can equip an entire apartment or office with products from this series. The advantage of this series is that the sockets are equipped with a non-conductive bridge, which ensures safety during assembly work (protects against accidental electric shock). | |||
| HAGER – POLO B. SQUARE | HAGER – POLO LUMINA 2 | LEGRAND SISTENA LIFE | |||
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| It is suitable for both very elegant and modern apartments and office spaces. It is dedicated to public utility rooms and places with an increased fire risk. Its main feature is simplicity and functionality. The B. KWADRAT series uses mechanisms and materials thanks to which the products have the highest level of indestructibility. | A series intended for multi-family buildings. The series has a wide selection of sockets and connectors that can be mounted both flush-mounted and surface-mounted. The LUMINA 2 series connectors have screwless terminals, which makes their installation easy and quick. | A combination of elegant appearance and advanced technology. By using switches from this series, you can save energy consumption by up to 30%. | |||
| LEGRAND VALENA | LEGRAND CELIANE | LEGRAND CARIVA | ||
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| It has a simple, elegant shape. It is dedicated to bathrooms, living rooms and offices. Products from this series have an IP 44 flap, which makes them splash-proof. | A combination of rectangular and circle shapes. For greater user comfort, it is possible to choose the method of turning on the light (by pressing a key, moving a hand or moving a lever). An important feature is the guarantee of reduced energy consumption. These products are marked with a green leaf (energy-saving). The sockets in this series have contact shutters, which increases safety. The series also has TV slots. Thanks to the switches from this series, you can control and manage the lighting depending on the user's mood. | A combination of modern form and reliability. It comes in two colors (white and cream). This series includes power, telephone and television sockets. Products from this series can be installed using claws or screws. Therefore, CARIVA is ideal for both old and new installations. | ||
| SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC SEDNA | SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC BINGO | ELEKTRO – PLAST HERMES | ||
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| A series of connectors and sockets addressed to customers who value modern design. A characteristic feature is their unique shape and thickness (only 8 mm). This series can be an excellent alternative to traditional connectors or sockets. It is available in two basic colors (white and cream), which allow you to adapt the equipment to the interior design. The advantage of products from this series is the "lightness of style" and ease of installation. Products from this series can be used in various places (houses, apartments, hotels, offices). | Traditional round shape connectors and sockets. Products from this series can be used in any type of room. The round shape is a recognizable feature of the series. | A series of surface-mounted sockets and connectors available in two colors (white and brown). All products from this series have an IP 44 protection level. Products from this series are dedicated to places with difficult conditions. Additionally, it is possible to combine products from this series into blocks, e.g. a connector with a socket in one body. | ||
See the full offer of sockets and connectors at the Onninen wholesaler