Adding an external plug socket makes life easier, whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant here in Exeter. Electrical work can seem daunting – and outdoor sockets especially need doing right, given the damp South West weather. This guide covers everything about external plug sockets, from choosing the right one to installation and safety, and our NICEIC-accredited electricians fit them for homes across Devon.
Choosing the Right External Plug Socket
Picking the right external plug socket depends on a few things. Think about how you’ll use it. Will it power garden tools, security lights, or something else?
This helps determine needed features and protection levels for the best outdoor double switched socket or a single switched one.
Switched vs. Unswitched
A switched socket lets you control the power directly at the socket. This is handy for appliances used regularly, reducing wear from plugging and unplugging. A switch socket can easily manage a wifi extender in your garden. A switched socket USB gives you even more options. Unswitched sockets always have power.
This is good for outdoor electrical devices needing constant power, like security lights or a pond pump. An unswitched socket is a great way to maintain reliable power to those devices.
Single vs. Double
A single socket works if you only power one thing at a time. A double socket gives more flexibility, powering multiple outdoor items, even including two double plug appliances. For a reliable power source for two devices at once, choose an outdoor double socket, either a double switched socket or an outdoor double switched socket.
RCD Protection
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is crucial. It instantly cuts power if a fault is detected. A switched RCD socket is essential to safety and should be prioritised, even over decorative weatherproof options like the BG decorative range, which also offers stylish weatherproof sockets and weatherproof socket IP ratings. You could also look at a standard switched RCD. This device is mandatory.
IP Ratings
External plug sockets should handle UK weather. Look for weatherproof outdoor sockets with a weatherproof socket IP rating for protection against rain and dust.
IP ratings measure this protection, rated from IP44 to higher levels like weatherproof socket IP66, with various socket IP ratings in between.
Electrical Safety First says outside plug sockets need at least IP66 to withstand harsh conditions. Consider these standards if you need power source equipment. This applies whether it’s British General, Masterplug IP, Knightsbridge IP or other brands offering double pole, single switched, gang DP or other multiple gang outdoor switched sockets.
| IP Rating | Protection Level |
|---|---|
| IP44 | Protected from splashing water. |
| IP55 | Protected from water jets. |
| IP66 | Dust-tight and protected from powerful water jets. |
Installing Your External Plug Socket
Installing an external plug socket yourself might be tempting. However, it requires specific wiring and safety standards (BS7671).
Doing it wrong risks shocks, fires, and electrical damage. Proper planning and installation are crucial. Complying with the IET Wiring Regulations BS 7671 is important. You should aim for compliance whether buying a socket kit for outdoor use or looking for outdoor fused spur options.
Professional Installation
A registered electrician ensures a safe and correct installation. Consider someone registered with a scheme like NAPIT or NICEIC. All of our electricians are registered and insured to give you peace of mind!
They’ll also comply with Part P building regulations. They can advise on the best outdoor switched socket location and type.
For EV charger installation, consider authorised OZEV installers. They’ll optimise charging and help avoid unsafe indoor extension leads running outside. Consider these factors if your outdoor switched socket plans involve EV chargers or other devices. They are vital whether it’s a grey outdoor socket you want or another style, single switched or otherwise.
Notifications
Notify your local building control about external socket installations. This ensures your outside socket complies with local codes. (Source).
This involves providing details about the outdoor double socket, outdoor switched socket or gang switched socket planned and often includes a fee.
Maintaining Your External Plug Socket
Outdoor plug sockets, exposed to the elements, need regular checks. Inspect them for damage and wear.
Keep the surrounding area free of plant growth and debris. Clean occasionally. These factors maintain safety and lifespan. Over time your sockets “outdoor” may wear out so always be sure to maintain them. For specific maintenance or any product safety related question regarding British General sockets or BG decorative weatherproof products, product safety notices from the company might be available. If you have any questions about product safety for your product, look for the relevant product safety notices. You may find it difficult to choose from various switched socket USB, double switched socket, smart weatherproof, or even simple double plug options.
FAQs about external plug sockets
Can I install an outside socket myself?
It’s possible but not recommended. Electrical work is dangerous without qualifications. A registered electrician is usually required. There is lots to know when choosing a suitable external plug socket. If you have a double switched socket and you require a weatherproof socket, which is important for safety, look into an outdoor double switched socket.
Ou team can help you with any electrical installations you might need!
Do I need an armoured cable for an outside socket?
Armoured cable is recommended but not always a must. It protects cables outdoors and underground.
An electrician can tell you if you need it for your outdoor sockets installation. A simple socket extension may do the job but it is likely you may want multiple gang outdoor or gang switched socket options with a better junction box.
Do I need an RCD for an outside socket?
Yes, an RCD is essential for all outside sockets. They are a critical safety feature. When buying weatherproof sockets make sure an RCD is included, along with appropriate IP rating and number of gang DP outlets. You could go with grey outdoor sockets for a modern and discreet option, gang outdoor socket units for power distribution or any number of plug socket choices for domestic garden purposes, even going for outdoor fused connection units where relevant. Always make sure your setup is weatherproof outdoor appropriate for your electrical socket demands.
Is adding an outside socket notifiable?
Yes, usually. Part P and other rules ensure external plug sockets are safe, making notification necessary.
Conclusion
External plug sockets are convenient. Carefully consider RCD protection, IP66 waterproofing, and the number of gangs needed. Buying the correct external plug socket, including options for switched socket USB configurations, is important, including making sure you meet required IP ratings like weatherproof socket ip66 and making good decisions on switched RCD socket units. This ensures you get the perfect external electrical socket to suit your needs, such as those for a garden power kit, or supporting various types of outdoor double switched sockets.
