Apartment wiring devices · Practical guides
Classifying outlets: standard, grounded, weatherproof and dedicated types
A takeoff needs the quantity of each outlet type, not just an overall count. Standard and weatherproof double-socket outlets use different materials and have different unit prices. This guide explains how to separate them into useful schedule rows.
Five criteria for separating outlet types
- Number of sockets: Single, double, triple or more sockets. Count one outlet device as one item and record the number of sockets in its specification.
- Grounding: Grounded or ungrounded. Most residential outlets are grounded, but follow the legend.
- Environmental rating: Weatherproof (WP), moisture-resistant, explosion-proof, etc. These distinctions commonly apply to balconies, bathrooms and outdoor locations.
- Dedicated circuit: Dedicated outlets for air conditioners, washers, electric ranges, ovens, bidets and EV charging. Their current ratings and physical forms differ.
- Installation method: Flush-mounted, surface-mounted, floor-recessed (floor box), furniture-recessed, etc.
Separate rows whenever one of the five criteria differs. If the schedule becomes too long, group similar item names under a parent category and distinguish them in the specification column.
Outlet types to keep separate
- Ordinary grounded double socket + weatherproof grounded double socket
- Ordinary outlet + dedicated air-conditioning outlet (different rating or form)
- Flush-mounted outlet + surface-mounted outlet (different boxes/covers)
- Power outlet + combined communications outlet (including TV/data terminals; spans trades)
- Combined power outlet and switch (one device containing both)
Record any specification required by the legend or project specification in the specification column. It may change the part number needed for ordering.
Typical outlets by location
| Location | Typical items | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Living room | Grounded double socket, combined outlet beside TV | Combined communications outlets are a separate item |
| Kitchen | Grounded double socket; dedicated range/oven outlet; dedicated refrigerator outlet | Dedicated-outlet current rating |
| Bedroom | Grounded double socket, dedicated air-conditioning outlet | Dedicated location for air conditioning (near the ceiling) |
| Bathroom | Moisture-resistant or weatherproof; dedicated bidet outlet | Grounding/moisture-protection rating |
| Balcony/utility room | Weatherproof double socket, dedicated washing-machine outlet | Varies with balcony extension |
This table is illustrative. Use the actual project’s legend and BOQ to establish its items and quantities.
What to record in the remarks
After dividing rows, record each device’s installation location (room name), mounting height if shown in the legend, dedicated-circuit status, and reasons for uncertainty. This lets the buyer select part numbers without reopening drawings. Voltix links item/specification/unit rows to individual identifiers and relative coordinates, and can also prepare manufacturer- and series-specific part-number order schedules on request.
Sources and scope
This article provides general guidance on reviewing apartment wiring-device quantities. For project decisions, the relevant drawing legend, revision information, specifications and contract scope take precedence. See our Editorial review and correction policy.
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