Switched socket outlet or FCU for F/F W/M etc. ?

[--tom]

I know that this subject has been covered before but i wonder what are the thoughts of the current diynot sparks?
Do you prefer to use a switched socket outlet or an FCU for supplying F/F, W/M, W/D or D/W etc, under a W/T or in a tall cupboard?

 

[JohnD]

Sockets are very convenient for appliances so you can unplug and move them easily for cleaning, maintenance or replacement.

If the socket is behind the appliance, it is not readily accessible, so you need a switch that you can get at. Above the worktop is a convenient place to put it.

13A plugs are most familar to everyone in the UK.

The ideal number of fuses per appliance is one






Given all this, my preference is for a dedicated, single, unswitched 13A socket for each appliance, with a DP switch above the worktop.

 

[--tom]

johnd thanks. So you are saying unswitched 13A outlets below the w/t and 20A,DP switched outlets above the w/t?
Where and when would you use FCU's ?
Is an unswitched FCU considered an local isolator?

 

[JohnD]

an unswitched FCU is SP only, appliance MIs these days require DP isolation.

you would use an FCU for a permanently fixed item such as an extractor with no plug

It also needs a small screwdriver to take out the fuse. Doing this under load is undesirable as there will be arcing. It is also unsuitable for emergency isolation as it requires the correct tool.

Why do you ask?