How to install electricity on a balcony: secrets of installing and connecting an outlet

Any room cannot be considered comfortable if it does not have electricity. This rule also applies to balconies.

Many owners, especially of glazed balconies, which are used as an additional room, are interested in the question: how to supply electricity to the balcony so that it is lit and you can use electrical appliances.

An interesting solution is lighting using an LED strip under the windowsill.

The power supply to balconies is described in this article.

What questions need to be addressed before installing electricity on the balcony?

Before you start conducting electricity and installing electrical appliances on the balcony, you need to decide on a number of questions:

• cable selection;
• how it will be laid: along a groove on the wall or through a special cable box;
• power source: main electrical panel, distribution box or plug closest to the balcony room;
• the number and power of lighting fixtures, whether heated flooring will be installed on the balcony;
• locations of sockets and switches.

All these questions require careful study.

Is it possible to put

Modern standard designs of apartment buildings do not provide for power supply to balconies. This is a damp place, and if the loggia is not glazed, then it is better not to install sockets on it. However, this is not prohibited by technical conditions. But, if you need an outlet on the balcony, then the owners in any case must follow safety precautions for laying electrical lines in wet rooms - use electrical equipment only with an increased protection class. To bring the outlet onto the balcony, you need to lay the wires in special sleeves, metal or plastic corrugation, and pipes.

Types of cable

Wires are made of aluminum and copper. Each option has its pros and cons. The current density in copper conductors is one and a half times greater than in aluminum conductors. Moreover, copper wire is more durable and reliable in operation. Aluminum - more ductile, it shorts more often. However, if the wiring has a large number of bends, it is better to use aluminum ones.

The core can be in the form of a single conductor or a collection of thinner ones that have a common insulation. In the latter case, the total area of ​​the conductors is indicated. The choice of core cross-section depends on the magnitude of the expected load. The easiest option for choosing the cross-sectional area of ​​the cable, if the value of the maximum current is calculated, is to use tables.

For reference!

These materials have different conductivities, so if they are connected directly, the circuit may close due to constant sparking. It is recommended to join them through steel clamps or bolts with a steel spacer washer.

Before installing electricity on the balcony, you need to plan the future locations of the points, as well as what household appliances you plan to use. This will help to correctly calculate the cable cross-section corresponding to the total power of all electrical appliances on the balcony. This is especially important during the subsequent installation of powerful electrical appliances, say, an air conditioner.

Installation diagram

To simplify the task of wiring, you need to develop a diagram taking into account the location of lines, points and cable cross-sections. You can draw the diagram yourself on a piece of paper or create it in a graphics editor on your computer and print it out. There are no standard schemes; each is done individually.

The diagram will help you accurately calculate materials and save money on their purchase. It displays not only line routes, but also load calculations, that is, an electrical circuit diagram.

Cable routing options

Before connecting electricity to the balcony, you need to prepare a route along which the required wire will be laid. There are several options for solving this problem.

• Hidden wiring is laid before work on insulation and glazing of the balcony begins, because the cable is laid in grooves in the wall, ceiling or floor. A hammer drill is used for grooving. After laying the wire, the groove is covered with putty. The grooved channel is performed either vertically or horizontally. Its depth is selected in accordance with the diameter of the corrugated pipe, in which it is recommended to insulate the cable for safety reasons, and the height of the subsequent layer of plaster. To make corrugated pipes, a highly flexible material is used that can be easily cut with a regular knife.

Depending on the calculated voltage power, the power source can be a socket or the main electrical panel.
For reference!

It is advisable to sketch the route of the wire when laying it hidden so that during further repair or other work it is not accidentally damaged.

• Open installation is a cleaner and easier installation option. In addition, this method is less expensive. It comes down, in particular, to installing a cable channel through which the cable is laid. The channel is screwed to the wall using self-tapping dowels in increments of approximately 40 cm.

You will immediately appreciate the advantages of this method when the need arises for an additional branch of an existing line, for example, installing an additional outlet or lighting fixture. The disadvantage can be considered the fact that the cable channel box remains visible and may not fit the design of the room. In this case, it is recommended to hide the box under the future decoration of the balcony.

In both methods, you need to drill a through hole in the adjacent wall. For this operation, a hammer drill or drill is used, which is preferable. It will be easier if you start drilling with a drill with the smallest possible diameter. Then, replacing it with a drill of a larger diameter, the resulting hole is gradually drilled out and they begin to deepen it. In this case, they focus on the size of the hole so that a corrugated pipe can pass through it.

Electrical safety requirements

Before working with electricity, you must familiarize yourself with the electrical safety rules and then follow them. For safety you need:

• carry out all work on electrical networks only when the apartment is completely de-energized;

• choose power tools with insulated handles and double insulation;

• Before drilling the walls, make sure that hidden wiring is not laid under the plaster;

• Install only electrical equipment with the required protection class (IP).

  
  Block socket switch, IP54 "Saturn"

Safety precautions when bringing light onto the balcony

• The balcony is considered a fire-hazardous room, so ensure proper wiring, which will significantly reduce the likelihood of a short circuit. It should be noted that according to GOST requirements, the use of a closed method of laying wires is safer than an open one.
• Before connecting the cable to a switch or socket, the apartment must be de-energized. It is extremely important to prevent accidental resumption of power supply. It will be better if someone guards the electrical panel while the connection is being made.

Important!

Do not begin installation, even if the power is turned off, until you are sure that there is no voltage in the circuit. To do this, you can use an indicator or tester.

Device: advantages and disadvantages

Until recently, the connection of various elements - sockets and switches - was carried out in a separate junction box, and then they were carried to those places that were determined by the project. Now savings come first: both time and effort. Paired designs make it possible to perform the operation much faster.

pros

Among the advantages of combined blocks:

1. A simpler circuit, thanks to which there is no need to lay wires to each element.
2. Fairly easy marking due to the larger block size.
3. The fastest possible installation on walls.
4. Minimum number of holes.

This is not to say that this solution does not have its drawbacks.

Minuses

These include:

1. High price. Combined blocks, naturally, are more expensive than individual elements.
2. Impracticality. If one component of the device fails, then more often the entire unit will have to be replaced.
3. Increased load on wires. In this case, it is necessary to calculate their cross-section, otherwise the risk of overheating will be high. To connect a block device, it is recommended to take into account the maximum load.
4. Location restrictions. The combined element can no longer be placed at the top of the wall, since in this case the appearance of the room will be spoiled by the plug and cable of an electrical appliance that is constantly needed. “Turning on the light” will not be very convenient, especially in the dark.

The biggest disadvantage is the need to replace the entire unit if one of the elements suddenly refuses to work. All other shortcomings can be accepted. But is the purchase of such an invention justified?

Which is better: together or separately?

Just recently, such “cunning” designs were not on sale at all. People could easily do without them, since there was no great need to combine devices that were completely different in functionality in one block. The traditional scheme had and has advantages:

If we compare conventional devices and newfangled combined units, then one advantage of the latest devices is very attractive to some home craftsmen. This is a simpler installation of hidden wiring if you don’t want to “disfigure” the walls too much. In this case, there is no need to make two separate grooves and different holes for mounting boxes.

When is the use of blocks justified?

The most problematic place in an apartment in a multi-storey building can be the corridor, which often cannot boast of sufficient footage. And in this case, combining a switch (or several) and a connection point to the power grid helps solve several problems at once.

1. As a rule, there is no need for an extensive electrical outlet network in hallways, since there are usually no constantly running electrical appliances there. However, from time to time, owners need to connect to charge a mobile device or vacuum cleaner. In addition, there may be a base for a radiotelephone. In this case, the combined block as an additional point promises maximum convenience.
2. Free space on the walls of corridors is often an unattainable dream, since they are occupied by massive wardrobes, hangers and an almost obligatory attribute - a mirror. Part of the hallway wall may be taken up by the distribution panel and meter. If there is minimal space left, then compact switching equipment is the optimal solution.
3. Combining an outlet with a switch makes it possible to save on electrical wiring. The block is a salvation if you don’t want to spoil the hallway wall. There is also no need to allocate space that is still free for a second distribution board.

All these situations are a common occurrence in apartment buildings, so one, but universal design will help solve many problems.

Prices

The price of “socket-switch” blocks will not ruin the owners, but due to two elements they are more expensive than individual products. Designs with one key can be purchased for 100 or more than 200 rubles. A universal device with two keys will cost 300-400 rubles, including sockets that are protected from moisture. However, the most expensive products for closed and (especially) open installation can cost from a thousand to several thousand.

How to install a socket on a balcony

There are two types of plugs:

• invoices. An external outlet is installed on top of the wall when conducting open wiring.

The installation process is quite simple, but this type of arrangement is not always convenient in everyday life.

• built-in An internal socket, the installation of which is carried out on hidden wiring, is more convenient and practical to use - it practically does not protrude from the wall. However, this has its own difficulties, since the contacts and junction box must be placed in the wall. To do this, as a rule, a recess of the required size is made in the future location of the balcony outlet. It is easier to do this using a hammer drill equipped with a round attachment. It should be taken into account that today European standards are more often used, according to which the optimal height of the connector above the floor is 30 cm instead of the previously accepted 80.

For reference!

Craftsmen advise installing a whole unit at once instead of a single plug connector. In the future, this option will prove to be very useful, especially since it does not particularly complicate the installation process.

Installation and connection of the internal plug

As an example, consider the most common option for bringing light to a balcony.

• Most often, the line for the balcony is taken from the nearest internal plug. A technological groove is prepared in the wall along a pre-planned route. To make the channel smooth and neat, you can use a grinder to make two small parallel cuts. Then, taking a chisel and a hammer in your hands, knock out a groove between the cuts.
• Since you will have to conduct electricity to the balcony through an adjacent wall, you will also need to drill a hole on it in some convenient place for the diameter of the corrugated pipe.

• You also need to cut out a recess in the wall in advance in the appropriate place to the size of the outlet (switch, junction box, etc.). The easiest way is to use a special round diamond bit for this purpose on an impact drill or hammer drill. Without such an attachment, you will have to use the old-fashioned method - a chisel and a hammer.

For reference!
When drilling with a diamond core, it is important to use a drill (hammer) in the correct mode. You need to choose drilling, not a combined mode with chiselling.

• The mounting box should, on the one hand, fit freely into the hole, and on the other, be hidden in it flush with the wall surface.
• The cable in a special corrugated or metal fire-prevention pipe is laid in a channel and fixed with staples or alabaster solution (it sets almost immediately) in increments of 0.2 m
• On the side of the power plug, it is necessary to provide a wire outlet (4–5 cm) necessary for connection to the contacts.
• On the other hand, the wire is brought out through the hole prepared in the wall to the side of the balcony and cut so that the free end of the cable protruding from the box has a length of approximately 5 - 6 cm.

• A socket box is installed in the hole prepared for the box. To do this, the hole is moistened with water, filled with a solution of gypsum or alabaster mixture and the box is driven into it until it is flush with the wall surface.

For reference!

Here it is important to take into account that it is more appropriate to recess the socket box deeper than it will stick out even a millimeter. The fact is that only then will the socket fit tightly to the wall after installation. You also need to pay attention to the location of the plug mounting points for the screws on the wall: they should be located on the same line either horizontally or vertically.

• Excess mixture is removed from the wall using a spatula.
• Installation and subsequent connection of the socket is carried out after the solution has completely dried and finishing work has been completed.
• Do not forget to turn off the power to the apartment before connecting the plug.

• Using a special knife, the wire is stripped from the outer braid, being careful not to damage the core insulation.
• The insulation is also removed from the ends of the wire. In this case, a regular knife will do.
• The frame is removed from the plug, the cleaned ends of the wires are inserted into its contacts, clamped tightly and secured with screws.

For reference!

Let us remind you that the connection of wires having different cross-sections or made of different materials is carried out through terminals.

• The socket is installed in the box and fixed with long self-tapping screws.
• Install the socket frame.
• They restore the supply of electricity to the apartment and test the finished line with a tester for the presence of a short circuit in the wiring. The functionality of the balcony plug is also checked. If no problems arise, the grooves can be sealed with putty or plaster mortar.

Installation of distribution box

Installation of a junction box on a loggia
If several power consumption points are to be installed on the balcony, for example, two lamps and an outlet, it becomes necessary to install a junction box. It is best to install it at the top of the room, 150 - 200 mm from the ceiling.

The distribution box is powered from a room outlet according to the scheme described above (a wire with a cross-section of 3 or 4 sq. mm is used), then all consumers are connected to it.

The connection of the box must be done through an RCD (this is the abbreviation for residual current device). It is placed in the room adjacent to the balcony.

Let us remind you once again that when connecting wires with different cross-sections or from different materials, you should use a terminal block.

Some tips from master electricians

• For the balcony, choose waterproof sockets (IP - 44 or more).
• Always connect the cables with reserve, since excessive tension on the wire is unacceptable.
• When laying the cable, do not rush to cut it. It would be wiser to first lay the wire in series, make sure it is long enough, and only then cut it off.
• During installation, it is advisable to use cables of the same type and with the same cross-section.
• During the installation process, constantly check the power supply so as not to waste time laying a wire that is obviously faulty.
• Turn off the power supply in advance.
• To reduce the likelihood of a wiring fire, initially insulate all wires, protect devices and all kinds of junction boxes from the penetration of dust (moisture).
• The balcony outlet can also be connected through a switch installed in the adjacent room. When leaving the apartment, or if necessary, the balcony will be de-energized with one click.

Criteria for selecting lamps

They take into account the degree of protection of the balcony from the negative effects of natural factors, the required level of illumination and interior design. If the balcony is open, then it is better to install outdoor waterproof devices on it.

By installation type

Proper placement of lighting makes the room more comfortable and helps visually increase its area. There are the following types of balcony lamps:

• ceiling - simple and reliable models;
• floor-standing - they are portable, but take up a lot of space;
• wall-mounted - create coziness and comfort;
• built-in - do not take up space, illuminate in a given place, but due to the narrow direction of the beam they can tire the eye.

Readiness number one

Before you begin work on installing electrical wiring on a loggia or balcony, you should prepare everything you need. Here are the products and materials we will need:

1. Wire VVG NG or PVS.

The number of wires depends on which wire is connected to the outlet closest to the balcony in the adjacent room, because our power supply system will be powered from it. If the outlet is grounded, we will use a wire with three cores; if not, we will use only two . The cross-section of the cores is selected in accordance with the magnitude of the expected load. For lighting sources, a wire with a cross-section of 1.5 square meters will be sufficient. mm. If the heater turns on, you should use a wire with a cross-section of 2.5 square meters. mm. Well, to connect a distribution box from which several consumers will be powered, you need to use a wire with a cross-section of 3 or 4 square meters. mm.

Cable channel for electrical wiring

2. Corrugated pipe with a diameter of 16 or 20 mm made of self-extinguishing material.

3. Junction box (if necessary).

4. Cable channel with double insulation (ShVVP-2x0.5 is possible).

7. Self-tapping screws 4.2x16 with a press washer.

8. Plaster or putty mixture.

9. Electrical socket with dust and moisture protection class IP44 . Such a high class is due to the high humidity that is typical for a balcony. If it does not have glazing at all, it is not recommended to install an outlet on it.

From your home arsenal you will need to take:

1. Drill with hammer.
2. A set of drills with a diameter from 6 to 20 mm and a length from 0.1 to 1 m.
3. Chisel.
4. Hammer.
5. Pliers.
6. Screwdriver Set.
7. Knife.
8. Voltage indicator or tester.