Adding socket for washing machine

[blightfoot66]

I wish to add a single socket under the worktop for a new washing machine as cutting the plug to feed it through the worktop invalidates the warranty.

I considered wiring from the back of the existing socket to do this but there is an issue. When connecting the earth wire into the existing socket it trips the main breaker in the fuse board!!!!

Does anyone know why this is happening?? There is already two wires going into the back of the socket, is that the issue??

My only other option is to run a new wire from the consumer unit to under the worktop. This could be achieved quite easily but finding a circuit to connect to may be an issue. The best choice would be the cooker circuit which is on a 32a breaker with a power pull of 22a max. Would it be ok to do this?? Any advise appreciated

 

[securespark]

I assume you mean the earth wire you are connecting is the one from the new socket and you are connecting it into the existing socket.

What is attached to the new socket when connecting the earth wire?

The washing machine?

 

[wingcoax]

Cut the plug. That won't invalidate the warranty. Any electrical work in the kitchen should be notified to your local council who will want money. If you do really need a socket, then get an electrician in who can notify and self certify. It will be a lot cheaper.

 

[JohnD]

cutting the plug to feed it through the worktop invalidates the warranty.

We occasionally hear this urban myth. Do you remember where you heard it?

 

[securespark]

To be fair it is, or certainly was, said on here often enough.

Example from 2009: http://www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=1138508#1138508

 

[blightfoot66]

I assume you mean the earth wire you are connecting is the one from the new socket and you are connecting it into the existing socket.

What is attached to the new socket when connecting the earth wire?

The washing machine?

There is nothing connected to it, I was putting in the new socket prior to the washing machine arivivng!!

 

[blightfoot66]

cutting the plug to feed it through the worktop invalidates the warranty.

We occasionally hear this urban myth. Do you remember where you heard it?

It is stated in the instruction book!!

 

[JohnD]

that's shocking! Can you tell me the make and model please?

 

[ban-all-sheds]

It is stated in the instruction book!!

It would never stand up in court.

 

[securespark]

Unlike the judge's w*lly....