FCU cable size

[andrew299]

Hello all,
I will soon be installing a new kitchen and currently my washing machine is installed by removing the plug and passing the cable through a hole drilled in the worktop. I don't want to do this for my new kitchen. Also I want to put a dishwasher in next to the washing machine and I will need a new socket outlet for this. So my question is - Is it possible to break into the ring main with an FCU above the worktop and install a double socket beneath? What rating would I use if I was using a double socket as if both appliances are on then they would be drawing 26A. can you get 32A FCUs? Also what cable size would I use - I assume that 2.5mm would not have a high enough rating so should I use 4mm?
Thanks
Andrew

P.S I am aware that this is notifiable so will be contacting the appropriate people beforehand. I just need to complete 100 other things before I even unpack the kitchen.

 

[bernardgreen]

Better to use two FCUs and two single un-switched sockets.

You can get a double box back box that will take two single FCUs.

Means you can switch both appliances independently from above the work top.

 

[Steve]

The maximum rating for an FCU is 13 amps, as they take plug fuses.

As such, you could feed your new sockets in 1.5mm cable, as it is adequately protected by the fuse. However, dont do this, us 2.5mm².

Also a better way than using FCUs is 20 amp double pole switches to feed a single socket (obviously done twice in this case). You can get grid switches to have two 20A switches on one plate:

Two of these:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/MKK4896.html
And one of each of these:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/MKK3632.html
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/MKK3702.html
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/AP615.html

Job done.

If you're really posh you can buy a label machine and label which switch does what! And even change all your sockets and switches for MK like the grid plate above, for a preofessional finish in your kitchen!

If you want to wire your freezer and fridge in teh same way, I suggest you use these:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/MKK4917.html
MK grid keyswitch. This will prevent anyone from accidentally turning off these essential appliances

 

[andrew299]

Thanks very much for the advice Bernard and Steve, I like the solution that Steve proposed as it will look very neat in the new kitchen