Minimum distance between two 2-gang sockets?

[Possom]

If locating two 2-gang electrical sockets on a stud wall (one above the other), is there any requirement which means that a minimum distance should be maintained them? Or can the two faceplates be located tight up to each other?

Thanks.

 

[JohnW2]

If locating two 2-gang electrical sockets on a stud wall (one above the other), is there any requirement which means that a minimum distance should be maintained them? Or can the two faceplates be located tight up to each other?

Certainly no requirement in terms of electrical regulations (or even electrical common sense). However, you might struggle to find a way of satisfactorily (and easily) installing them with the faceplates 'tight up to each other' - did you have any thoughts about how you might try to do it?

Kind Regards, John

 

[ericmark]

You can get back boxes

designed to connect together, in the main I have used barrel nuts etc to space out the sockets, you can get

but the price is a little off putting. DG3578NR is the Volex part number for grid plate but not sure if Volex do grid sockets. Also this

 

[bernardgreen]

A plug in a lower socket will obstruct the cable from a plug in the upper socket if they are too close together

 

[Taylortwocities]

If you get the purpose-made dual boxes (as shown by Eric) note that they are no good for some of the metal etc faceplates which are larger than the standard plastic white ones.

 

[Sureitsoff?]

TTC the OP states one above the other not side by side

 

[Taylortwocities]

I know. And there are similar products that provide a one-above-the-other solution. Eg https://www.screwfix.com/p/british-general-mounting-box/5072f
The spacing issue will also need checking on those too.
I know, I’ve been caught out with such a thing.

 

[AndyPRK]

yeah the issue is exit of the plug top flex can very easily clash with the other socket outlet.
Use a molded plug to test.

Also if you have a large wall wart in the house (that protrudes out the top) ensure a stand plug can be fitted in the socket above it. (for best practice and flexibility)

 

[Possom]

I know. And there are similar products that provide a one-above-the-other solution. Eg https://www.screwfix.com/p/british-general-mounting-box/5072f
The spacing issue will also need checking on those too.
I know, I’ve been caught out with such a thing.

I wonder what the spacing between the two faceplates would be using this. It looks like it might be approx 40 mm.

These boxes are 50mm deep. Is it okay to use 25mm deep metal ko boxes if the switches fit in them. I've bought 25mm boxes.

 

[Possom]

You can get back boxes

designed to connect together, in the main I have used barrel nuts etc to space out the sockets, you can get

but the price is a little off putting. DG3578NR is the Volex part number for grid plate but not sure if Volex do grid sockets. Also this

I wouldn't need the extra section to the right - not sure if that's for USB outlets.