Moving a wall socket

chuck1000 · 10 Oct 2006

I need to move a wall socket about 1metre on to another wall but the cable into the socket isn't long enough. What is the safest way to join a peice of cable. I've bought a "Flex Connector 3 core 13 amp" which seems to allow me to join the 3 wires from both cables. The connector would be placed under the floor boards because that's where I've had to
join the cables.

Am I doing anything dodgy?

cheers

JohnD · 10 Oct 2006

Yes, you say that's a flex connector but you are not joining flex.

Also you propose putting the connector out of sight under the floor.

You have to use a connection suitable for T&E. Crimps, with heat-shrink sleeving, will do it. A Connector Block in an enclosure will do provided that it is in sight, since it has screw terminals that need to be inspected and tightened occasionally.

Alternatively you can trace the cable back to its source and fit a longer piece.

chuck1000 · 11 Oct 2006

Thanks very much. If I go with the connector block under the floor board, it can be accessed fairly easily by unscrewing a piece of floor board. Does that sound ok or am I breaching any laws/safety laws?

sm1thson · 11 Oct 2006

as far as i know its a grey area what is accessable and what isnt, but if you use a connector block make sure its of high enogh rating for the ring main or better to use a junction box (again high enough rating). but still the best way (without replacing the cable)is properly crimped and sleaved connections (use quality ratchet crimpers like these

DESL · 11 Oct 2006

You need to use one of these

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/AAJB30.html

fixed to the joists

JohnD · 11 Oct 2006

Desl, you seem to be suggesting a junction box, out of sight and inaccessible. That isn't right, is it?

Steve · 11 Oct 2006

under floorboards is not accessible. Think about it, even though right now you have carpet, and it can be easily lifted and replaced for access, what happens in a few years when you fit a wooden floor such as laminate?

Laminate isn't easily lifted, and when you do, it needs renewing. So the junction box underneath is no longer accessible. So it is not acceptable to have any electrical joints under the floorboards. Laminate or not.

DESL · 11 Oct 2006

OK I the missed point here I thought original poster was going to use terminal block to extend cct.

WSDLTD · 11 Oct 2006

definately go with the crimps and heat sleeving

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Moving a wall socket

WSDLTD

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