socket for a washing machine question

[jonmc1980]

I am looking to add a new socket for my washing machine, as at present i'm using an extension lead. Is it possible to have a switch above a worktop to control a socket below a worktop? I don't want to have a cable coming up through the worktop, but I don't want to have the socket switch behind the machine incase I ever need to switch it off quickly due to a fault. Thanks for any advice

 

[ColJack]

yes this is the common way of doing it, fused switched spur above the counter, and a single unswitched socket below..

 

[jonmc1980]

thanks that helps a lot also at present I have a wall mounted socket but i'd like to change this to a flush and move it lower on the wall. However the cable won't be long enough for this new location. Whats the best way to extend a cable in this situation?

 

[Taylortwocities]

Use proper insulated crimps intended for use in mains voltage applications, fitted with a calibrated crimper. The whole joint covered over with heat shrink sleeving.

Any competent electrician will have this stuff in his toolbox.

Please read this before doing any electrical work in a kitchen yourself! http://www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:part_p:diy_electrical_work_and_the_law

 

[ban-all-sheds]

The best way is not to extend it, but to replace it instead.

If you must extend it you could use a junction box, or choc-block in an enclosure, but for both of those they must remain accessible. You can also crimp, which doesn't need to be left accessible, but will require investment in the right tool, as you should use one of these:

not one of these:

.

Also, where will the new cables run? Be aware of the rules for concealed cables:

• http://www.voltimum.co.uk/files/gb/attachments/niu/l/attachments/c5-43.pdf
• http://web.archive.org/web/20061110111450/http://www.niceic.org.uk/downloads/concealedcables.pdf
• IEE article
• IEE Article on 17th Edition requirements for concealed cables.

Don't forget that the socket you move should have RCD protection.

Finally, are you in England or Wales, and is this W/M in a kitchen? If so, read this: http://www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:part-p

 

[jonmc1980]

Thanks for the advice

Is it ok for me to fit a new flush socket -> fused spur -> unswitched socket?

Then get an electrician in to connect it to the ring? That way i'm not dealing with anything live in the kitchen and breaking regs.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Is it ok for me to fit a new flush socket -> fused spur -> unswitched socket?

Not without notifying in advance - read this: http://www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:part-p.

Then get an electrician in to connect it to the ring?

It doesn't work like that - read this: http://www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:part-p.

That way i'm not dealing with anything live in the kitchen and breaking regs.

You will be if you don't notify in advance - read this: http://www.diynot.com/wiki/electrics:part-p.