Radiator over socket

[DanDare]

Apols if this has been posted before - couldn't find it in the archives...

Am I breaking any regulations if I put a radiator over a (double) socket outlet? I imagine it's easier to leave the socket intact to maintain the ring, but I guess I could connect with chocbox and put a blank cover over, or put a JB under the floor?

I suppose it's inconvenient for future sparks, but since a woodlock floor will eventually be laid, no more inacessable that a JB...

Thanks

 

[rebuke]

Not sure exactly what the regs say (haven't got a copy on me), but generally connections need to be accessible for inspection/maintenance etc - behind a radiator that would effectively require a plumber to remove I very much doubt counts as accessible - under the floor definitely doesn't.

One option would be to use the blanking plate idea, but rejoin the ring with crimps using a proper ratcheting crimp tool, which is allowed by the regs to be inaccessible, rather than choc block...

 

[DanDare]

so does that mean that all JBs under tiled/woodlock/vinyl floors etc aren't allowed ?

 

[rebuke]

Fairly sure that's the case, there is some debate as to exactly what 'accessible' means - can't remember how well it's clarified in the regs - will look it up when I can (if someone doesn't beat me to it)...

 

[ban-all-sheds]

It isn't defined or clarified at all.

 

[Taylortwocities]

True, its not defined, but common sense does suggest what is meant by accessible. under a wood block floor isn't.

Its a bit like saying a 20ft fence is jumpable. But knowing that it's only jumpable if you carry a trampoline around with you and dont mind breaking your legs on landing.

 

[securespark]

C'mon TTC, brighten up my day & show us how it's done...!!

 

[ericmark]

I have had a socket behind a radiator for years. Originally was going to fit a myson but changed my mind. Each PIR I unhook radiator and lean it forward to plug in tester then return radiator to wall. I can not see doing this once every 10 years is a problem. Turn of taps and relatively easy to remove. A lot easier than lifting carpets to access junction boxes I've seen fitted under floor boards. How anyone is to read "Junction box below" written on floor board once carpet is down I don't know. You can see the socket behind my radiator.
So it will stay there. To remove would mean it would break regulations as to permitted routes where cables can be run.

 

[Taylortwocities]

I suppose it's inconvenient for future sparks, but since a woodlock floor will eventually be laid, no more inacessable that a JB...

Thanks

Now, that's NOT accessible!

 

[ban-all-sheds]

True, its not defined, but common sense does suggest what is meant by accessible.

If you need a tool to get to it, is that accessible?

under a wood block floor isn't.

Or indeed under a wooden boarded floor, if issues of damage are to be considered. For example, someone with an expensive hardwood floor, T&G boards with secret nailing, isn't going to look kindly on the appearance of the Fein/floorboard saw/crowbar from the toolbag...

Does "accessible" imply "without damage"?

Would a 6' fence be jumpable if a sprained ankle was the result?

 

[Taylortwocities]

C'mon TTC, brighten up my day & show us how it's done...!!

I know how not to do it: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=ktHa9-TfKwc