Multiple outdoor sockets

I'd like to get some clarification about adding some outdoor sockets.

I have a socket which is on the ring main (downstairs circuit) so I was thinking of taking a spur off this socket, through the wall and then put a weatherproof FCU on the other side.

Then from this FCU run conduit to each socket (also weatherproof) required.

Does this sound ok? There are seperate circuits for the kitchen sockets and tv sockets so the actual downstairs ring is barely used for anything, and they will only be for occasionaly use, nothing permanent.

One electrician talked about putting a round junction box when the spur comes out but surely that's a bit pointless? Why not go straight into the back of an FCU? Another one was talking about fusing after one of the sockets.

Maybe the electricians have made some assumptions or maybe I don't know what I'm talking about!

is the ring rcd protected? why not put the fcu indoors then it can be isolated easily.

joe384 said:

I have a socket which is on the ring main (downstairs circuit) so I was thinking of taking a spur off this socket, through the wall and then put a weatherproof FCU on the other side.

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Ok. Why not put the FCU inside?

Then from this FCU run conduit to each socket (also weatherproof) required. Does this sound ok?

Click to expand...

Yes.

One electrician talked about putting a round junction box when the spur comes out but surely that's a bit pointless? Why not go straight into the back of an FCU?

Click to expand...

No reason.

Another one was talking about fusing after one of the sockets.

Click to expand...

No, it must be before the first socket.

Maybe the electricians have made some assumptions or maybe I don't know what I'm talking about!

Click to expand...

Maybe the JB is for the conduit to connect to - but you seem to understand.


Of course, you could use 4mm² cable for the spur so that the fuse (in the FCU) is not needed - but a double-pole switch, preferably inside, is still a good idea.

You can get units with socket overload and RCD all combined the switch thing on left is called a RCBO, but question one is if the supply already RCD protected? The unit shown it seems is designed to charge EV cars from, although not really a practical solution as instructions say needs a second RCD to supply it, so for car charging a bit useless, but if you don't have a RCD in the consumer unit, that may be an option.
this could have the socket replaced with the LAP grid system so a fuse holder, switch and socket instead of the double socket if already RCD protected. As I did here for my mother when I wanted a string of sockets from a spur. But single socket is £9.59 and a RCD FCU £15.49 and combined unit £49.99 so although more expensive it is a neater job if both RCD and overload protection is required.

Thanks, yes I am pretty sure it is RCD protected at the consumer unit (house is only 4 years old)

Yes, I did initially think about having the FCU inside, can't remember why I changed my mind though