Steckdoses

Steckdosen are fixed electrical outlets that connect building wiring to portable electrical devices. They are mounted in walls or furniture and accept a plug (Stecker) on a device’s cord to supply alternating current.

In Germany and much of continental Europe the standard wall outlet is the Schuko Schutzkontakt-Steckdose (Type F). It provides two round contacts for live and neutral and an earth connection via side contacts. Many outlets are hybrid Type E/F and can accept plugs designed for Type E (which has an earth pin) as well as Type F. Beyond Schuko, ungrounded two-pin Type C plugs are common for lighter devices, though they do not provide earth grounding. In other regions, different outlet types exist, such as Type G in the United Kingdom or Type L in parts of Italy.

Electrical specifications for Steckdosen in Europe typically involve a nominal voltage around 230 volts and a frequency of 50 hertz, with household current ratings commonly at 16 amperes. Outlets are installed in wall boxes following national electrical codes and are often part of circuits protected by residual current devices (RCDs) for added safety. Modern installations frequently include child-safety shutters to prevent the insertion of small objects, and some sockets offer integrated USB charging ports or are paired with Steckdosenleisten (power strips) to increase the number of available outlets.

Safety and maintenance focus on using properly rated outlets, avoiding overloading circuits, keeping outlets dry, and replacing damaged or worn sockets only by qualified personnel. Steckdosen are essential components of everyday electrical infrastructure and vary across regions in design and standard.