extra socket

sean_bdf · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:37 pm Post Subject: extra socket

i have got a socket on the wall of my kitchen and i want to install a socket on the other side of this wall to get power into the out house but want to keep the original socket in its place, what is the best way of doing this?

Taylortwocities · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:40 pm Post Subject:

Is the existing socket on a ring circuit?
If so you could go straight thru the wall and put a socket there

BUT:

1. The socket must be RCD protected and must be deisgned for outside use.
2. I'm worried about the "get power to the outhouse" bit. Is this on an occassional basis or permanent?
3. You'll need to notify your local authority - its notifiable work.

__________________
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When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on. - F.D.R.

JohnD · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:42 pm Post Subject:

By an astonishing coincidence this very question cropped up less than two hours ago.

Have a look at http://www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=699894#699894

post your replies here to the questions I asked.

sean_bdf · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:45 pm Post Subject:

it is a permanent fixture for an extra fridge freezer and i do believe it is on a ring circuit

JohnD · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:50 pm Post Subject:

test the socket you mention to see that it is live

Then turn off the power to that circuit and test that socket again to see that it is dead.

Then, remove the socket and see how many wires it has. With luck, there will be two cables, each with one red, one black, and one green/yellow.

Use your multimeter to test for continuity between the two reds, the two blacks, and the two G&Ys. If you haven't already got a multimeter walk up to the high street and buy one for about £10.

Report back here with what you find.

sean_bdf · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:52 pm Post Subject:

haven't got time to get a multimeter today just finding out how to do it before i start the project! it is from a kitchen to an outbuilding

JohnD · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2007 1:36 pm Post Subject:

the continuity tests will tell you if it is part of a ring and if you can take a spur off it. the socket outside the house will have to be protected by an RCD and be weatherproof.

it is notifiable work so you will have to contact the buuilding control office, or have it done by an electrician who is a member of a self-certification scheme and will issue the documents.