Plugs and sockets from Fanton: power, standard, and Schuko, 10 and 16 amps, angled or straight, white or black
, by عامر شوب, 3 min reading time
A guide to choosing Italian Fanton plugs: the difference between 10 and 16 amps, the types of power, standard, and German Schuko, angled, straight, and rubber plugs, and when to choose each type.
A plug is a small, inexpensive part, but it is the connection point between the device and the electricity. A weak plug or one rated for less than the device’s load can overheat, melt, and potentially cause a fire. This guide explains how to choose the right plug from the Italian FANTON collection.
1. Amps: 10A or 16A?
Amps indicate the maximum current the plug can handle. Choose based on the device’s power:
| Plug | Approximate suitable loads at 230 volts |
|---|---|
| 10A | Devices up to about 2300 watts: lighting, TVs, computers, small appliances |
| 16A | Devices up to about 3600 watts: heaters, space heaters, washing machines, large power tools |
Rule of thumb: If you’re unsure, choose 16A. More importantly, the socket and cable must also be able to handle the same current.
2. Plug type: Power, standard, or Schuko?
Types differ in their pins and grounding system, and the plug must fit your socket:
- Power and standard plugs: Two types with different pins; choose the one that matches your home sockets or device.
- Schuko plugs (German): Round pins with side grounding, for devices and sockets using the German system.
If you have a device with a plug that doesn’t fit your socket, it’s best to replace the plug with a compatible type rather than using multiple adapters.
3. Straight or angled?
- Straight: The cable exits the back of the plug in a straight line.
- Angled: The cable exits from the side. Ideal behind refrigerators, washing machines, sofas, and cabinets, as it keeps the device from being pushed away from the wall and prevents the cable from bending sharply.
4. Rubber for tough jobs
Rubber plugs withstand impacts, drops, and use in workshops and on job sites better than hard plastic.
Available FANTON collection
10 amps
16 amps
White or black?
Performance is the same. White suits white devices and sockets in the home, while black hides dirt in workshops and matches black devices.
The correct way to install
- Disconnect the device from the electricity.
- Strip the wires to a suitable length, leaving no bare copper exposed outside the plug.
- Connect each wire to its correct terminal: live, neutral, and earth (usually green/yellow).
- Tighten the terminal screws well, and secure the cable clamp so it cannot be pulled out.
If you’re unsure about the connection, have an electrician install it.