How to place sockets in the kitchen conveniently and safely: 4 important tips

We take into account the placement of large and small household appliances, the arrangement of furniture and the degree of protection of sockets from moisture and steam.

How to place sockets in the kitchen conveniently and safely: 4 important tips

The number of kitchen electrical devices is growing every year, and for normal operation they all need to be connected to the network. How to arrange such a connection so that the user is comfortable and safe? Here are our tips.

Source: ekitchentrends.com

 

All kitchen outlets can be divided into two groups. The first includes devices for connecting stationary equipment. In the second - sockets for portable devices, which are usually removed after work.

Consider the location of large household appliances

For stationary equipment, sockets are required that are mounted next to the location of this equipment. For outdoor placement, the universal place will be above the skirting board at a height of 10-12 cm from the floor, under the kitchen furniture. This place, as a rule, is suitable for built-in appliances, as well as for free-standing (for example, a refrigerator ).

Focus on your furniture plan

For portable equipment, two to three units of two or three sockets are installed.

They are placed above the worktop, on an apron, taking into account the arrangement of furniture - so that there is convenient access to outlets. Therefore, it is better to proceed with the installation, having an accurate plan for the placement of furniture.

The number of outlets in the kitchen is selected based on the maximum number of appliances that are planned to be connected at the same time, plus one more.

If the kitchen has an island module, the sockets can be installed directly on the countertop. For this, recessed retractable outlet blocks are suitable . Under this option, the electrical wiring must be pre-mounted in the floor during the repair.

Consider the placement of small household appliances

Toasters, meat grinders, juicers and other kitchen appliances, as a rule, are equipped with short (1.0-1.5 m) pieces of wire for connecting to the network (so that there is less risk of accidentally hooking the wire). Therefore, it is better to place the outlet for their connection close to their location.

Do not forget about the degree of protection (IP)

If you plan to place the outlet block on the work surface, keep in mind the following restrictions: in the kitchen, it is recommended to use sockets with the IP44 protection level. However, they should not be placed where there is a source of moisture or steam nearby. The rules recommend placing them no closer than 60 cm from the source of moisture, not lower than 60 cm above the electric stove and not lower than 70 cm above the gas stove, but the further they are located, the safer.

Also, for greater safety, it is recommended that all kitchen outlets be connected via an RCD with a disconnection current of 30 mA. And yet: electrical outlets should not be placed behind the washing machine and dishwasher.

Sockets on the apron, located at a distance of less than 60 cm from the sink, must be with a degree of protection IP44 and a special cover. The ability to install decorative frames that are suitable in color will ensure safety and emphasize the design.

For the island’s power supply in the middle of the kitchen, moisture-proof hatches with circular diode illumination or withdrawable blocks that open by pressing a button are suitable. You can also install wireless chargers or USB sockets here to recharge your favorite gadgets. For small kitchen spaces, extension racks are convenient, combining a power outlet and charging station for a smartphone, as well as a charger for connecting two USB devices.