Plug Sockets

[jennyjoan]

Need a double plug socket ie for kettle and microwave. I have come across some of the plates being "screwless". Anybody tell me how these attach to the wall. Thanks

[Electrochem]

Gangs is the term used for sockets and light switches etc. You should only have 2 of each connection (live, neutral and earth) not 3, unless there has been a spur added. I hate to sound condescending but you don't seem to have a grasp of the basics and I've seen a lot of people cause massive problems as well as putting themselves at risk. I fail to see how the cables (which should be 2.5mm twin and earth, with shrouding on the earth) can blow a socket.

[jennyjoan]

electric - I have already installed one on the other side of the kitchen - many moons ago and it's going strong

[The Builder]

They're a bit fiddly, JJ.
The front cover just clips on.

Under the cover you'll see two normal screwholes. You just screw it on as normal, then clip on the fancy cover.

Good point from Electrochem. I can only think that either the terminals had come loose... causing arcing.

OR... there was some scorching, perhaps from drawing a full 12 or 13 Amps from one gang. It sometimes happens, particularly with cheaper sockets.

[jennyjoan]

thanks Builder. I have taken off the old plate and there is indeed 3 wires of

neutral
live
earth. Each of the 3 wires were screwed into the plate.

Like Electric - I would have thought 2 wires but there are definitely 3 and they are very taut. Have gone ahead and ordered the new one in Ebay - should be here next week some time.

I also understand how the screwless ones work. Just the same way as the screwed ones but the cover probably just flicks on and one doesn't see the screws. They look good too.

[bhg481]

As Electrochem says, if there are 3 wires it means there is a spur from the socket; it makes no difference to the wiring.

[The Builder]

Ok JJ.

Yes, as Electrochem said, you have three sets of cables because there is a "spur" from there to another "added-on" socket somewhere.
No problem, just make sure the terminals are done up nice and tight.

[jennyjoan]

aye ok - if I'm not on here next week - you'll know I've blown myself up. LOL