Sockets are used to draw electricity for electrical appliances like television, radio,
refrigerator, toaster, blender, washing machine, etc. Most of these devices are made from metals or plastic. Earlier, the necessity for electrical appliances was limited.
They weren't considered a vital aspect of home decor and interior. However, today
switches and sockets have become more than mere utility products. Their visual appearance and aesthetic appeal have become a major factor influencing consumer decisions.
As the entire limelight is on switches, sockets are often ignored. However, it must be remembered that sockets form a vital part of the overall appearance. Having a good switch and an average socket spoils the entire look.
Available rated currents for sockets:
• 10A
• 10/16A
• 10/25A
• 13A
•15A
• 16A
• 16/6A
• 20A
• 25A
Things You Must Know Before Buying A Socket:
• Ever faced a situation when the entire socket comes out while you remove your charger? Modern-day sockets solve this problem. They come with a lock on the backside which prevents the socket from coming out. • The socket should be heavily stacked on the backside such that it covers all the parts. Light sockets increase the chances of current or shock. • For Sockets of 16 Amperes or more having China clay on the backside reduces the chances of the entire system catching fire. It ensures the safety and sustainability of heavy-duty appliances like heaters, geysers, Air conditioners, etc. • Some chargers need a firm, supporting material when attached to certain sockets. Otherwise, the charger might fall down. Hence, it is preferable to go for a shuttered socket. A shutter is also important to ensure the safety of anyone who comes in contact with it. • The internal construction of the socket plays a vital role. But sockets that don’t retain moisture, especially in wet places like the bathroom. • Current rating has to be checked before choosing a socket. Generally, 6A/10A for lights and fans, 16A/20A for heavier lights, moderate power consumption appliances like TV, 25A/32A for heavy appliances like geyser, air conditioner. • ISI certification of the socket is also important with respect to fire safety. • These days sockets come in various pin types. Choose the right pin type depending on the electrical appliances in your homes.You might consider buying a socket, but what if the socket catches fire despite that? What else can you do while checking electrical sockets to ensure fire safety?
Using unsafe electrical appliances: Using a faulty heavy-duty electrical appliance is a highly dangerous practice and should be avoided at all times. These devices
constantly trip the MCB which increases the chances of fire.
Faulty Outlets: Fires are often caused due to faulty outlets, appliances, or extension cords. So, it’s important to check these regularly and call an electrician if you see something that sparks a warning bell. It’s also essential that you turn off the main power supply in case of such an event.
Wrong Wattage of Light Bulbs and Overloaded Power Strips: Installing a high-watt light bulb in an unsupported socket may lead to an accidental fire hazard as the high-power draw heats the wiring, the socket, and the board. So, make sure that all your light bulbs are of supported energy signature. The same is true for extension cords and in-socket extensions. Avoid plugging in a plethora of adapters on connected power strips in your workplace and home.
It’s also a good idea to use power strips that have in-built circuit breakers to minimize electrical hazards.
Wiring: If you’ve lived in a house for more than 20 years then you should consider changing your wiring. Outdated wiring cannot handle the electrical capacity of modern-day appliances. This increases an electric load on circuits causing the system to breakdown and can even lead to a fire.
Extension cords: You might settle for an extension cord in case you don’t have
enough sockets to power your devices. But to use this over an extended period is not advisable. Extension cords charge multiple devices and are rarely built to handle such intense power loads over long periods. So, it’s best to use extension cords as a temporary measure and charge devices by inserting it directly into the sockets.
Leaving an Appliance Plugged Near Water Sources: Though it might seem a caution that need not be mentioned, some people are still guilty of it. . If you accidentally plug an appliance near a water source and the connection is wet, do not try to unplug it.
Switch off the power from the Main Switch box before removing the plugged
appliance and cleaning up the switch and socket. Also, a Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI) will help in cutting the power automatically, the moment anyone receives a shock.
Unshuttered Socket: Kids are likely to play in an area that has a switch and a
socket nearby. They might insert a finger or two inside an unprotected electrical
socket out of innocence and might get hurt. Such accidents can be avoided by
using fire-resistant shutters.
