- What are the rules for electrical spurs?
- How many 13A sockets can be on a ring main? Or how many sockets can be added to an existing circuit?
- How much for extra socket installation by type?
- What are the factors that affect the cost of installing additional plug sockets?
- What is involved in a new plug socket installation?
- Can I install a plug socket myself?
- How long does it take to install a new plug socket?
- Do I have to get building regulations and planning permission for installing plug sockets?
- What is a ring main and radial circuit?
- How to tell if a socket is broken or faulty?
What are the rules for electrical spurs?
Extra socket installation has several rules to be followed. There can only be one spur per socket. The total number of spurs must not exceed the total number of sockets already on the radial or ring circuit. The spur must be connected to the existing circuit using the same size and type of cable as used in the main circuit you’re spuring from.
A spur can be connected to an existing socket on a circuit but only if it has not been spurred off already. Adding a spur is a common way to add an extra socket in a room.
If more than one spur needs to be added, the socket would need to be fed from a fused spur. This would be connected via a separate fuse that would protect the cable.
A fused spur powering multiple sockets would only allow up to 13amps to be drawn from the electrical items plugged in the sockets. This means, in theory, you could have as many sockets as you like from a fused spur, as long as not more than 13amps is needed from the items plugged in.
How many 13A sockets can be on a ring main? Or how many sockets can be added to an existing circuit?
There is a simple answer to this. Technically you can add as many as you like. If you heavily rely on extensions and adapters, you should consider having extra sockets installed. As well as being tidier and more convenient, it’s significantly safer.
There is no limit to the number of 13A sockets that can be placed within a ring main but you have to ensure that it doesn’t exceed the total floor area of 100 square metres or 50 metres in length when connected to an MCB (60 metres when running off of a cartridge fuse).
How much to install a new plug socket by type?
The indoor socket installation costs are the same for all socket types, however you will still need to decide which one is right for your room. The cost does differ for extra socket installation.
The most common socket types are the following:
Single Socket: A standard socket with a single plug and these are very useful for single appliances, or tight spaces.
Double Socket: They are better value than fitting two single sockets and help future-proof your home in case you need to use more devices later on.
USB Socket: These cost a little more to buy than single sockets but give you the added convenience of being able to charge by USB whilst keeping the plug free for other appliances.
Outdoor Socket: If you need to use your plug outside – such as for a lawnmower, hot tub or other external appliance – then you’ll need an outdoor plug.
Extra socket installation cost factors?
The cost of installing a new plug socket is heavily driven by the type of socket you choose. The number of sockets is also very important. To save on future work you can opt to have more sockets done as part of a single job. Also the style can affect the cost, the colour and the quality of sockets is also very important. A standard white socket costs less than brushed steel, black nickel, polished chrome and other styles.
Moving current socket or adding new socket a short distance can be cheaper than adding a new one if your electrician is able to use the existing wiring.
What is involved in an extra socket installation?
Please see the below steps for an extra socket installation:
• You need to prepare the old socket, the area and the wiring in the place you wish to install your new socket. If in that place there is an existing socket, this will have to be removed and the wires will need to be disconnected. If it is a new socket, then the wall will be hollowed for the socket to be placed.
• You will need to inspect the breaker box to ensure everything is in order.
• For a completely new plug socket, wiring must be lay from the breaker box to the space where you need the socket.
• The wiring will be connected to the new socket and attached to the wall with screws.
• The new socket will be tested with a meter to ensure there is the correct amount of electricity moving through.
Can I install a plug socket myself?
As a homeowner, you are allowed to just add a socket. Legally, there is nothing to stop you as a homeowner from adding a socket, as long as you comply with Part P building regulations, are deemed competent, and have the correct test equipment and knowledge. This is why it is best to get a qualified electrician to add sockets to your circuit.
We recommend that a professional electrician undertake any electrical work to ensure the electrics are fitted properly, and there is a reduced risk of an electrical hazard occurring. It is important to have a qualified electrician to complete the work. This provides a guarantee that the work has been completed safely and in line with building regulations.
How long does it take to install a new plug socket?
Dependent on the size of the project and any additions that it may require, a standard plug socket fitting usually takes around 2 hours to complete.
Do I have to get building regulations and planning permission for installing plug sockets?
Although it is highly recommended to have a qualified electrician undertake any electrical work, you do not need to obtain any Building Regulations or planning permission for installing plug sockets.
What is a ring main and radial circuit?
A ring main or ring final circuit is a domestic electrical circuit that is used for powering the electrical sockets in your home. Electrical cable, usually 2.5mm twin and earth runs from your consumer unit to all sockets on the circuit and back to the consumer unit in a loop.
However, there are others factors that are important when safely adding extra sockets to an existing circuit. You also need to consider the size of the physical area covered by the circuit as well as the cable size, the electrical load and the quality of the protective device. You always need to have this checked by a qualified and experienced electrician to ensure the extra socket is installed in safe and optimal conditions.
The different ways you can add sockets to your circuits are: radial circuits and spurs. Radial circuits are circuits that carry the power from your consumer unit to a socket. These tend to be used to supply mains power to sockets and lighting points. Other common uses for radial circuits are to power one particular electrical item on a circuit, for example, boilers, ovens, hobs, or immersion heaters.
The most important thing about a radial circuit is that it needs to end. It does not carry on back to the consumer unit like a ring main or ring final circuit would do.
How to tell if a socket is broken or faulty?
The most apparent indication that a single socket or a double socket is broken/faulty is a complete lack of power when attempting to use them. It is suggested to check all other outlets as it may be a problem with the
main consumer unit or fuse box, rather than an independent issue.
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