Installation boxes for sockets

Installation boxes are intended for installation of plug sockets and electrical wiring switches of an apartment (house) in them. Installation boxes are mounted directly into the wall of the room, and a socket or light switch is installed in it.

Some types of installation boxes have enough space for mounting in them not only sockets (switches), but also other elements of the electrical wiring of the apartment. For example, if it is necessary to connect several sockets with a loop, a terminal block is installed and connected to the installation box, and then the socket.

Depending on the installation location, there are several types of installation boxes:

- boxes for installation in drywall and hollow walls;

- boxes for brick or concrete walls;

- boxes designed for pouring into concrete (used in industrial enterprises).

The first type of installation boxes is distinguished by the presence of special clamps (metal legs) that allow them to be mounted directly into drywall.

Typically, the mounting box has several openings for conductors. Initially, these openings are closed by partitions, which can be easily removed with a screwdriver. Most boxes for sockets have special locks that allow you to collect several boxes together, which is very convenient if you need to install two or more sockets. There are also separate types of installation boxes that are designed to install two or more outlets.

How to choose an installation box for outlets?

The question often arises of how to choose an installation box for mounting a power outlet. When choosing an installation box, it is necessary to take into account its diameter, width, as well as the location of the proposed installation.

If you plan to mount the box in a wall made of drywall, then pay attention to the presence of special clamps (fasteners) that allow you to fix the installation box in a drywall. For a brick or concrete wall, a box of any type is suitable, including one intended for installation in a plasterboard wall. See also on the topic -Armature for mounting sockets and switches.

The diameter and depth of the box must be selected in accordance with the dimensions of the internal part of the socket and other elements (conductors, terminal block) mounted in it. The best option is to choose a box when purchasing an outlet.

Mounting the installation box for the outlet

Consider an example of mounting a mounting box for a wall outlet in a brick wall.

First of all need to prepare a hole in the wall. For this purpose, you can use drill with a special nozzle, hammer drill, and in their absence, you can make a hole in the wall in the traditional way - a chisel and a hammer. When the hole is ready, insert the installation box into it and make sure that the box does not protrude from the wall. The box will be fastened with alabaster, so make some margin for the diameter and depth of the hole in the wall.

Before attaching the installation box, prepare a hole for the wiring harness in it. As a rule, there are several places on the box where you can make a hole. If structurally such places are not provided, you can cut the necessary holes with a knife.

The next step is the installation of the installation box. Insert the wire into the hole in the box, prepare a small amount of alabaster solution. Before mounting the box on the wall, clean the hole in the wall with a brush previously moistened with water. Apply a small amount of alabaster solution, both on the installation box and in the hole.Then insert the box into the hole in the wall and align it. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the fact that alabaster is characterized by quick setting.

When the alabaster has set, cover the remaining voids around the installed box.

After the mortar has finally solidified, you can proceed to connecting the outlet and installing it in the installation box.

Recommended reading: How to properly transfer the socket and switch

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