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Billybellfoot

Hi as above i currently have a Radial from CU in cupboard that powers one socket (powers 13a heater) outside the cupboard can i (DIY) add a new socket inside the cupboard between CU and existing socket? The intention to have a socket in that cupboard to power a chest freezer

Thanks for any support
 
Is the existing radial circuit 20A? Is it RCD protected?

This isn't an airing cupboard with the heater used inside it is it? If so I wouldn't put any kind of refrigeration appliance in a heated cupboard.
 
Is the existing radial circuit 20A? Is it RCD protected?

This isn't an airing cupboard with the heater used inside it is it? If so I wouldn't put any kind of refrigeration appliance in a heated cupboard.
 
Hi thanks for swift response. no its just an inside cupboard just inside porch door (maisonette no downstairs except that cupboard and the adjacent heater) ill show a pic for ref


Thanks again

Adding socket to radial 20161206_153539 - EletriciansForums.net

Adding socket to radial 20161206_155937 - EletriciansForums.net

Adding socket to radial 20161206_153539-1 - EletriciansForums.net

Adding socket to radial 20161206_153539-1 - EletriciansForums.net
 
Hi on the fuse box pic posted the fuse in question is the (lobby heater) proteus b20 i believe is a 20a as for rcd there are 2 rcd switches.
 
Yes is the answer.
 
Hi thanks for input westward is that YES it has rcd OR, YES it can be done adding an additional socket to radial between CU and existing socket at end of radial


Thanks
 
Both, yes it has rcd protection and you can add on either between the socket and CU or after the socket using a suitably sized cable which is probably 2.5.
 
or even take direct off the MCB, making sure you get the N in the correct N bar.
 
Both, yes it has rcd protection and you can add on either between the socket and CU or after the socket using a suitably sized cable which is probably 2.5.
would the existing cable given enough slack in it behind the dry wall be fit for the purpose. for the between CU and existing socket method (does this in theory make the existing heater socket a spur from the intended new socket if so does that method remain safe)


Thanks again
 
If you add direct from the MCB isn't that a new radial circuit and not an addition.
 
Last edited:
Of you add direct from the MCB isn't that a new radial circuit and not an addition.
No

I would advise the OP to get an electrician in to carry out this job as they will be able to test the circuit to verify its safety.
 
Ah yes thats correct as long as its the same MCB then its not a new circuit its an alteration.
Its a shame that the addition of a new MCB would be neater and provide circuit seperation but would then be a new circuit.
And yes of course the work would need the correct tests done to ensure safety so should be carried out by an electrician.
 
Hi here is a small diagram of what i have with a basic floor plan for info/ref and an idea of what i had intended with fig1 being the more obvious location for new socket. i am not qualified correct but i thought this was (diy level) adding one socket between cu and existing socket on that radial. maybe i underestimated the complexity of the job ?

Adding socket to radial 20161208_140512-1 - EletriciansForums.net
 
The physical install maybe ok but to test continuity and insulation resistance are ok and safe you need the right kit and how to use it. Hence safer to use an electrician.
 
The physical install maybe ok but to test continuity and insulation resistance are ok and safe you need the right kit and how to use it. Hence safer to use an electrician.

I do have a continuity tester and am willing to buy the kit required if i dont have it to hand.

Thanks again
 
You'll be looking at £500 minimum for a multi function tester to test the circuit in accordance with the wiring regulations. Then you need to know how to use it. Probably simpler to get an electrician in as you seem keen to do a proper job of this.
 
A normal continuity tester isn't normally suitable. Due to the high voltage and high current we need to measure to fractiins of an ohm. Most normal continuity meters are designed to just check continuity but not at the required accuracy.
 

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