New build outside socket help

onstagefool · Nov 14, 2024

Hello,

Recently moved into a new build. Outside there is the wiring (behind a blanking box) for an E/V charger to be installed. It is wired into the MCB on a 32amp fuse.

Would it be possible to install an outside double socket on this wiring without any issues?

Thanks

Martin ( a have a go at everything guy )

Fleeting · Nov 14, 2024

Yes provided it has 30ma RCD protection.

onstagefool · Nov 14, 2024

Fleeting said:
Yes provided it has 30ma RCD protection.

As in the socket needs to have the 30ma protection?

Fleeting · Nov 14, 2024

Yes but this may already be in place at the consumer unit, can you show a pic?

NozSpark · Nov 14, 2024

What are you wanting to use the socket for?,,, as there is a specific section of the regulations that covers supplies for charging electric vehicles in which it requires extra protection measures over and above just being RCD protected

onstagefool · Nov 14, 2024

NozSpark said:
What are you wanting to use the socket for?,,, as there is a specific section of the regulations that covers supplies for charging electric vehicles in which it requires extra protection measures over and above just being RCD protected

I am planning to use the socket just for outdoor work....mowing the lawn...maybe xmas lights.

SPECIAL LOCATION · Nov 14, 2024

onstagefool said:
Hello,

Recently moved into a new build. Outside there is the wiring (behind a blanking box) for an E/V charger to be installed. It is wired into the MCB on a 32amp fuse.

Would it be possible to install an outside double socket on this wiring without any issues?

Thanks

Martin ( a have a go at everything guy )

If this wiring has never been previously energised... AND there are no records of any test readings on your electrical certificates...
Then it would first need "Dead-Testing" to confirm it is safe to energise..

Then once the dead testing has proved satisfactory it can be energised so that live testing of earth-loop impedance and RCD operating times can be confirmed appropriate for a double socket...
e.g. that in the event of a fault it would disconnect the power source fast enough so as to ensure no serious (or fatal) electric hazards to people or animals...

BUT.. if it is going to be used for charging an EV.. then as Noz says.. there are a few more additional hoops to jump through before you could be sure there will not be any issues!
(Which are typically outside of the scope of DIY!)

SPECIAL LOCATION · Nov 14, 2024

Forgot to add....
Back in my college days... A favourite phrase from one of our lecturers was...

"Any idiot can join wires to make something work... But good electrical design, installation and testing is about ensuring that the power is disconnected fast enough before you kill someone!"

Outdoor electrical work always has an increased level of hazard and danger than indoor work!

If you don't have access to suitable, continuity tester, Insulation resistance tester, RCD tester..
Then you could hire some test gear for a day...

But if you don't know how to use the test gear..
Its probably cheaper & safer all round to get a local electrician on board to ensure a safe addition to your wiring.

binky · Nov 15, 2024

Do you even have

NozSpark said:
What are you wanting to use the socket for?,,, as there is a specific section of the regulations that covers supplies for charging electric vehicles in which it requires extra protection measures over and above just being RCD protected

Wouldn't the extra requirements for EV mean it's better protected for about door socket than spurring off a socket on the ring main?

Apache · Nov 16, 2024

If the OP is correct and the cable is connected in via a 32A MCB, then surely negligent of the installer not to have tested properly?

If the OP took some pictures that could help.

mainline · Nov 16, 2024

binky said:
Do you even have

Wouldn't the extra requirements for EV mean it's better protected for about door socket than spurring off a socket on the ring main?

Not if It's as the OP is saying that it's on a mcb.

Fleeting · Nov 16, 2024

It would have been tested up to the joint box.

binky · Nov 17, 2024

mainline said:
Not if It's as the OP is saying that it's on a mcb.

As a new build I expect it's on a twin RCD board.

mainline · Nov 17, 2024

binky said:
As a new build I expect it's on a twin RCD board.

If the OP could post a pic of the board, it would be helpful.

New build outside socket help

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