What is a wall socket (socket outlet)?
A wall socket, in technical terms a socket outlet, is a fixed outlet mounted in or on a wall into which appliances with a plug are connected. In Dutch it is called a “wandcontactdoos” (wcd). The type of socket and the wiring rules differ by country: the Netherlands and Germany use the earthed type F (“Schuko”), the UK uses the type G three-pin socket under BS 7671, and the US uses NEMA types under the National Electrical Code.
| Netherlands and Germany | Earthed type F ("Schuko") |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Type G three-pin socket, under BS 7671 |
| United States | NEMA types, under the National Electrical Code |
Types
- Earthed sockets: the norm in modern installations. Unearthed sockets are only found in old wiring.
- Flush or surface-mounted: flush sockets sit in a back box recessed into the wall; surface-mounted ones are screwed onto the wall, for example in a shed or garage.
- Single, double or multiple.
- Weatherproof: with a hinged cover and a higher IP rating, for outdoors and damp areas.
- With USB or switch: combinations, for example by the bed.
Tips and points to watch
- Always work dead: switch off the circuit, lock it off if possible and confirm with a proper voltage tester that the conductors are dead.
- RCD protection: socket circuits in homes are normally protected by a 30 mA residual current device. Have old installations without RCDs checked.
- Bathrooms: around baths and showers there are zones in which sockets are not allowed. Follow your national wiring rules or let an electrician decide on the position.
- Separate heavy loads: washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, oven and hob should not share a circuit with general sockets in a way that overloads it.
- Do not daisy-chain extension leads: add wall sockets instead.
- Plan positions during a renovation: bed, desk, TV wall, worktop, outdoors. Chasing cables and making good afterwards is much more work.
- If in doubt, use a qualified electrician: wiring faults can cause fire or electric shock, and in some countries certain work must be notified or certified.
Related terms
- Residual current device
- Electrical wiring
- Earth electrode
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