Built-in socket in the countertop: what it is, features, pros and cons

It is inconvenient to cling to the extension cord wire, so recessed sockets are used. They are located in different places, but most often in the countertop. It is a block of several points of connection of electrical appliances, which is mounted in the top of the table in a case made of plastic or metal. To remove the device, there is a retractable mechanism. When you press on the installation point, the socket slides out, when you press again, it sinks inside the table top. Built-in tabletop socket is an indispensable attribute in offices, they are very convenient in apartments (especially small ones), demonstration stands, etc.

Features of built-in sockets

Devices for powering appliances placed in the countertop differ in design and method of extension:

• Vertical unit - pulls out of the countertop upwards. This is the most common, but also "fragile" design, as the "tower" of outlets is easy to accidentally hit. When turning on appliances, you need to hold it to prevent the mechanism from loosening.
• Horizontal unit - located horizontally in the tabletop. It unfolds in the upward direction. The disadvantage is that it is difficult to connect to the horizontal unit technique, which has a side type of plug.
• Retractable swivel unit - the outlets lift out of the countertop and unfold to a 45-degree position. This is a more convenient and durable mechanism. However, the side plugs are inconvenient to plug in. Recessed models are installed in the countertop from above. Angular - at the junction of the table and wall.
• Concealed unit - mounted in the tabletop permanently, it has no retractable mechanism. A decorative cover insulates outlets from dust and moisture. It rises or slides to the side. Concealed unit - the most reliable design. Minus - it takes up some space on the countertop surface.

Open sockets - the type of unit that is installed in office or computer desks. They are not insulated with a cover, so they are not used in kitchens and bathrooms. In rooms with high humidity are installed recessed sockets with a degree of protection from IP44 and above.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Wires are not in the way - they are hidden in the design of the table.
• Sockets are more protected from moisture.
• Built-in blocks are inaccessible to children (unless you show them how to open them).
• Many units have a USB port.
• The original design especially complements the modern style of apartment design.

Cons:

• Built-in outlets are not suitable for permanent power supply of powerful stationary equipment - refrigerators, ovens, microwaves. They are used to connect small appliances: mixers, blenders, hair dryers, computers, laptops.
• When a retractable socket is hidden in the tabletop, you need to remember that the place of its installation is not a full table surface. It is possible to put a non-heavy object on it. Wet objects (such as washed vegetables) should not be placed on top, because moisture will leak even in a small gap between the table and the protective cover.
• Can take up useful space inside the table if something is stored underneath.

Built-in sockets are full-fledged devices for connecting appliances. Especially if the power of the total simultaneous power consumption from it is correctly calculated. The unit must meet this figure, so that it does not overheat.