How to independently connect the hob to the mains
As a rule, when buying a separate electric stove, the process of connecting it is quite simple: for this you just need to plug the plug into the outlet. However, many people buy only a work surface - a hob, which has many advantages. Connecting the panel to the mains is somewhat more complicated. A dedicated line is required to maintain the hob warranty. In this article, you will learn how to correctly connect the hob to the mains.
The content of the article
Installing the hob in the countertop with your own hands, video
Before the connection process, it is necessary to carry out preparatory work, including: studying the passport data of household appliances, preparing all the necessary tools, choosing a place for installation. To correctly complete the installation, you first need to know its dimensions. This can be done by opening the instructions for the device. In most cases, it also provides detailed wiring diagrams. It is important to pay attention to the minimum allowable indents from the edge of the tabletop, which are also indicated in the instructions. It is recommended to perform them a little more, in view of the fact that the narrow edges can be damaged over time.
Using an electric jigsaw with a fine-toothed file, you need to carefully cut the lines from one hole to the next. In this case, the jigsaw must be pressed firmly. The resulting sawdust can be collected vacuum cleaner.
Models, the principle of which is based on induction, differ only in surface and principle of operation. On such surfaces, instead of burners, there is a plane that heats the dishes only in places of contact with the surface.
In comparison with connecting a hob for a conventional kitchen, induction surfaces have a number of restrictions on the installation site:
- The height of the ventilation gaps should be approximately 6-10cm;
- There are also special requirements for humidity and temperature of the ventilation gap. It is forbidden to lay plumbing lines under the hob;
- Materials that are close to the panel should not be of the same composition as those that are heated due to induction processes.
Sealing and sealing
All sections must be treated with silicone sealant, or nitro varnish should be used. Thanks to these actions, you can significantly increase the service life of the tabletop and protect it from dirt and wetness. A self-adhesive sealant is also perfect, which is glued on top so that the edges of the hob lie on it. To protect the countertop from temperature extremes, it is recommended to use aluminum tape.
How to connect the hob yourself, video connection
Almost every device has the same connection. This line is capable of withstanding currents up to 40-45 amperes. You also need to take care of grounding.
To connect an induction hob, use one of the following diagrams:
- Single phase circuit. To find the phase, it is recommended to use a probe or tester;
- Two-phase connection. Used in new buildings, but quite rarely.
- Three-phase connection, which is used to increase power and KKD equipment.
Connecting the hob to a single-phase power supply
To do this, you need to use a network cable that will be rated for the power of the panel. Mostly, cables with a cross section of 4 or 6 mm2 are used. A cable with a cross section of 6 mm2 is more reliable and is well suited for powerful panels. Typically, four-wire cables are used.
The diagram shows the following designations:
- L1, L2;
- N;
- PE
This marking is generally accepted throughout Europe, it is easy enough to determine what to connect where. To connect the two phases, a special jumper is included. It must be inserted between the phase contacts. To connect a four-core cable to a three-pin access point, twist the black and brown wires and connect them to the mains phase wire. The use of adapters or extension cords is prohibited.
The following connections must be made in the junction box:
- Connect brown and blue conductors to the outer terminals of the socket. If there is a marking on the case, the brown conductor must be connected to the “L” terminal, and the blue one - to the “N” terminal;
- Connect the yellow-green core to the central terminal.
Connection to a three-phase network
In networks with a voltage of 380 V, a five-core wire is mainly used. In this case, to connect, you need to remove the jumpers from the three contacts of the terminal box.
After that, connect three phase wires to them. Thanks to the use of this scheme, the mains voltage can be rationally distributed.
Another connection option is plugging into an outlet. It is necessary to determine the phase and zero connectors with the indicator, and then attach the wires to the necessary terminals.
To make a connection, it is enough to understand the simplest principles of electricity.
Video: how to connect the hob
Instrument selection
The power of almost all surface models is from 5 to 7 kW. When installing more powerful hobs, it is necessary to use sockets for the hob with a current of 32 A. As for the cable, at a current of 16 A, you need to use a copper cable with a cross section of 2.5 mm2, at a current of 32 A - 6 mm2. To facilitate the selection of the required cable section, you can use the following table:
Alternatively, the connection can be made in the terminal box. This method is more reliable, but to turn off the hob, you must turn off the switch on the RCD or machine.
Related article:
Induction hob: pros and cons. Even an ordinary gas stove can be replaced. So, the induction hob is becoming more and more popular. Read about its pros and cons, the nuances of choice in the article.
Connection recommendations
- It is recommended to seal all joints with special heat-resistant compounds;
- If possible, it is recommended to leave the possibility for free maintenance of the panel;
- The choice of the outlet must be approached with special responsibility, it must be made of high-quality materials and provide reliable contact;
- It is very important to regularly clean the inside of the hobs, so that a variety of problems can be avoided;
- The most optimal solution is to conduct a separate power line for the hob, even if there is a margin of safety in the network section;
- If the socket is installed in a brick wall, it is better to use a special gasket to prevent damage to it;
- To make sure all wires are connected correctly, you need to use a multimeter to prevent short circuits.
In order to avoid various troubles, it is recommended to de-energize the line to the distribution board before plugging the plug into the outlet. After connecting it, the switch can be turned on.
Now you know how to connect the electric stove yourself. As you can see, connecting the hob to the mains is quite simple, and you can do it yourself, with minimal knowledge and skills in this matter.