Sockets

Sockets connect electrical equipment to the power supply at houses and other buildings. If you are planning to buy one, you must know that they come in various voltage and current ratings, sizes, shapes, usability, and connection types. Here is the guide that will help you understand some crucial details. So, read on!

A socket and a plug are often used collectively to make an electric device work. A plug is a movable connector that remains attached to the device, whereas a socket is static, usually on the wall, connected to an electrical circuit. The plug comes with standing out pins that go into the holes of the socket. Some plugs even have female contacts for an earth ground connection. They can even have built-in fuses for safety. Since it makes an electrical system, some risks may be there if not operated properly. So, plugs and sockets come with safety features to minimise the risk factors. If you are not a frequent buyer, it may be confusing for you to buy an appropriate variety. If you are looking for sockets for sale online in the UAE, go through the below guide.

Things to know about plug sockets & their types

To enhance the safety features, you can find a plug with insulated sleeves, recessed sockets and even automatic shutters that block the holes when you remove the plug. It keeps a lot vital if you have kids at your home. You can find sockets on plain white surfaces as well as surrounded by protective or decorative covers. Single-phase sockets come with two current-carrying connections but may also have a third one for a connection to the earth ground. A grounding line protects your expensive appliances from conditions like surges or overvoltage. The 3 pin socket may also protect you and your properties from electric shock. You can find many more varieties today. Let us know about some common and useful ones.

The working of a wall socket

In order to give electricity to your equipment, you need to connect its plug to a socket. Firstly, your home receives electricity from power plants and power lines. This power is received us by means of outlets via circuit breakers. An outlet may have two or three holes. The first hole is neutral, and the second one is live. The third hole is for grounding purposes. The live one connects to the wire that supplies the electric current, whereas the neutral one brings the current back to the breaker box. The grounding wire is also important in the process that neutralises any unfavourable or dangerous electrical current into the ground.

The safety aspects associated with electric sockets

Just like any other item at your home, sockets are prone to wear and tear as well. We use them every day to switch on and off things like lights, fans, AC, microwave and more. So, there are things to keep in mind while using them. Look out for any cracks or smoke marks on the surface of the socket. You should seek an electrician’s advice or services in this case. Another safety step is to never overload the socket with multiple appliances, especially with devices that have a high current rating. It may result in overheating and hence, fire accidents. Never overlook the importance of replacing or tightening the loose faceplates. Lastly, always switch off the supply before taking the plug out of the outlet.

USB sockets, universal sockets & other popular varieties

The type of sockets is not just restricted to two or three-pronged outlets now. The new design has USB ports on them. With the help of a USB outlet, you will be able to charge an electrical gadget using its USB charging cord. There is no need for an adapter. It is handy to have it in living spaces, kitchen, bathroom, and other spots where you usually charge your gears. The best universal socket is another variety that accepts a variety of plug types. Some sockets even come with a built-in LED night light that eliminates the need for an individual night light or having to switch on the light when there is a requirement in the middle of the night.