In electrical design, the distribution of sockets

In electrical design, the distribution of sockets is not just drawing circles on the walls... 

Each socket you specify by: 

✅ Usage
✅ Device shape
✅ required current
✅ and the place itself has moisture? And no children? And no high load?
 

This is a practical and short guide to all types of socket that you will need in your design, with numbers and requirements 👇

 

🔌 1. Single Socket – Single (13A/16A)

Usage: Light Appliances – Chargers – Fan – Laptop

Rated current: 13–16A

Capacity: 180 – 250 VA

 

Observations:

✅ the most common

✅ Rides at a height of 30 cm or 105 cm depending on the function

✅ Delivers on MCB 16A

✅ The American code calculates 180 VA automatically if there is no specific device

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🔌 2. Double Socket – Double

Usage: Two devices side by side (TV + receiver for example)

Rated current: 13–16A × 2

Capacity: 360 – 500 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Suitable for offices and bedrooms

✅ You can't put heavy loads on it without distribution

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🔌 3. Switched Socket – With Key

Usage: Appliances that need constant disconnection such as a microwave or heater

Current: 13–16A

Capacity: 250 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Gives you quick manual control

✅ Required in kitchens according to the Saudi code and NEC

 

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🔌 4. Socket with USB Ports

Usage: Direct charging for mobile – headphones – tablet

Current: 13A+2.1A USB

Capacity: 180 VA + 10–15 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Do not increase the total load

✅ It saves space and increases efficiency

 

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🔌 5. Waterproof Socket – Waterproof (IP44/IP55)

Usage: bathrooms – balconies – laundry rooms

Current: 13–16A

Capacity: 250 VA

 

Observations:

✅ GFCI is required in the American code

✅ RCCB in Saudi Arabia and UAE

✅ IP44 minimum – IP55 is preferred if it has direct spray

 

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🔌 6. Floor Box Socket

Usage: Meeting rooms – open halls – offices

Current: 13–16A

Capacity: 250 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Installed in the ground with cover

✅ Withstands weight and movement

✅ Important in modern designs

 

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🔌 7. High Current Socket (20A)

Usage: Air conditioner 1.5 tons – medium appliances

Current: 20A

Capacity: 2000 – 2400 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Independent circuit

✅ Cable of at least 4 mm²

✅ Separate MCB

 

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🔌 8. High Current Socket – (32A)

Usage: Heaters – Large Air Conditioners

Current: 32A

Capacity: 3500 – 4000 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Does not ride with regular sockets

✅ Special connection and special cutter

 

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🔌 9. High Current Socket – (40A)

Usage: Electric oven – water pump – industrial washing machines

Current: 40A

Capacity: 5000 – 6000 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Does not ride in common circuits

✅ Connects with at least 6 mm² cable

 

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🔌 10. 3-Phase Industrial Socket – Three-Phase

Usage: Pumps – Machines – Industrial Devices

Current: 20A to 63A (3Φ)

Capacity: 8000 – 25000 VA

 
Observations:

✅ Requires MCCB

✅ An emergency key is needed soon according to the industrial code

  

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🔌 11. Childproof Socket – Protect for Children

Usage: Children's rooms – schools – nurseries

Current: 13A

Capacity: 180 – 200 VA

 

Observations:

✅ Required in NEC as Tamper-Resistant (TR)

✅ Heavily used in educational and service projects

Code Notes:

✅ The US code calculates each general socket with 180 VA (NEC 220.14(I)) if the load is not specified

✅ The Saudi and Emirati codes impose RCCB protection for any place where there is moisture or critical devices

✅ Socket distribution must be given every 1.8 m maximum in the walls (NEC 210.52)

✅ In kitchens: every 1.2 meters socket on marble