Installation of sockets and switches: standards

When repairing apartments or replacing electrical wiring, the question arises at what height from the floor to install sockets and switches.

There are two standards that determine the installation height: the old Soviet GOST and the European standard, the requirements of which have now been added to modern Russian rules and standards. In addition, in the matter of the location of sockets and switches, they are guided by common sense and ease of use.

The placement of electrical equipment in the bathroom is regulated by separate requirements that should not be neglected for safety reasons.

Socket installation height

During the construction of buildings in Soviet time sockets were installed at a height 90 centimeters from the floor, which was not always convenient.

Introduced now European standard allows the installation of sockets at a height of at least 30 centimeters from the floor. This option is more convenient in cases where the socket needs to be hidden behind furniture: under a computer desk, a TV cabinet, behind a chair. But in the kitchen, it is most rational to place sockets above the surface of the tables, so they are more accessible.

socket for electric stoves installed at a height 0.9-1 m from the floor so that it can be quickly turned off if necessary. But such an arrangement spoils the appearance of the kitchen, so the outlet can be lowered, provided that it remains accessible.

socket for exhaust fan best placed near it, but no less than in 20-25 centimeters from the ceiling.

It is also advisable to install a socket for a WiFi router in the immediate vicinity. It is usually located in the hallway so as not to extend the cable for connecting to the Internet deep into the apartment. To connect to this cable, you can install a special socket next to the power outlet, and next to the TV - a socket for connecting a TV cable.

When arranging sockets in the kitchen, they should not be allowed to be located:

• behind the cases of built-in equipment;
• inside cabinets;
• above the sink
• above the stove.

Read a selection of articles about installing sockets in the apartment:

Mounting height of switches

There are two options for installing switches.

1. Installation at a distance of 160 centimeters from the floor level as was customary in Soviet times. The switch is not accessible to children, furniture will never close it, and this option will be familiar to older people.

2. Installation at a distance of 90 centimeters from the floor as modern standards allow. This option is more convenient, since raising your hand is not required to operate the switch.

When using any option, the switches must be placed at a distance of 15-20 cm from the slope outside or inside the room from the side of the door handle.

Mandatory requirements for installation distances

When choosing the installation height of switches and sockets, the determining factor is the achievement of comfort in the house. But at the same time, it is necessary that the conditions of the current rules and regulations that determine the distance from the switch or outlet are observed:

• 0.5 m- to gas pipes, heating pipes and batteries;
• 10 cm- to window and door openings;
• 10 cm- to the corner of the room;
• 0.8 m- to the kitchen sink.

And remember: the location of electrical equipment in the bathroom installed separate rules.

Consider the location and dimensions of furniture when choosing where to install switches and sockets. Access to them after the repair is completed is blocked by cabinets or tables. Therefore, the layout of electrical wiring and the interior is developed jointly and carefully. At the end of the repair, it is impossible to move the switch or socket without global alterations, since the wiring is already embedded in the strobes and wallpaper is glued on top of it.