oven query

[who-knows]

hello there.

i'm looking for some advice on a single oven. i've just purchased a new kitchen including all new appliances and one of these is a single over. i've been trying to work out who i need to get in to do what and am a bit confused as far as the oven is converned.

the oven is 2.3KW and comes with a power lead but no plug. i'm given to understand (by reading over threads) that single ovens less than 3KW can be connected via a plug (eith a 13A fuse), is this correct?

please note that the manufacturers instructions only mention .connect to the mains' and nothing more specific than that.

any help would be much appreciated

thanks

 

[JohnD]

i'm given to understand (by reading over threads) that single ovens less than 3KW can be connected via a plug (eith a 13A fuse), is this correct?

Yes.

The switch should be in plain view, labelled "oven" and to one side of the oven. not directly above it, so it can be turned off for servicing, and in the event of an emergency like a fat fire, without having to lean over it.

 

[who-knows]

thanks for your speedy reply john.

i guess with the flex being visible its going to be a little on the ugly side though.

i note from other threads that the preferred method seems to be for an FCU to be used. is it possible for me to simply replace the existing socket with an FCU (with a 13A fuse) and then wire the single oven directlry into the FCU instead of using a plug?

if this is possible what would be the preffered method, me purchasing some extra 1.5mm2flex and replacing the flex that came with the oven (this one being quite short, but is 1.5mm2) or wiring the flex into a junction box and then a length of t&e up to the FCU?

many thanks for your answer in advance

thanks

 

[JohnD]

Some people like FCUs. That's one alternative.

If you can avoid a join in the cable, do it in a single piece. Have a look at the terminals in the back of the oven to see how it's done. Mark them for cable colours before you take off the old one.

Best to get a heat-resistant flex. The sort sold for immersion heaters for example is suitable.

If the socket is a single, an FCU will fit straight in.

If it is a double socket, buy a Dual Box which will accept the FCU plus a single socket. You will have to enlarge the hole in the wall a little.

Electrical work in kitchens and bathrooms in England and Wales is subject to regulations. Have a look at the "Part P" posting that you will find in this forum.

 

[who-knows]

thanks for all your help JohnD

 

[who-knows]

thanks again john, i guess my only other would be is it ok to have a small lenght of coil on the wiring run ie enough to allow the oven to be removed from the carcass for any future servicing etc? if so how much?

 

[JohnD]

A loop rather than a coil. I suppose a length that will allow you to lift the oven out and onto the floor without straining the connections. I would have thought an extra metre would be ample.

 

[who-knows]

thanks again john