Cable Length From Isolating Switch

[Mike Noc]

The fitted double oven in our kitchen is within 2 metres of the isolation switch for the hob and oven (the switch is next to the hob), but the cable to the oven is well over 2 metres as it is routed behind the base units.

Is the 2 metre length regulation 'as the crow flies' between the oven and isolating switch or is it the maximum length of cable?  The kitchen was fitted before we moved in, so at least 12 years old.

 

[Telectrix]

can't see any problems with that. as long as the cable/s are the correct size for the load and securely connected. 

 

[Mike Noc]

Many thanks.

All the cables are hidden but I will be replacing the cabinets shortly and will check the cable size then.

 

[Telectrix]

usually it will be either 4.0mm or 6.0mm, T/E or maybe flex. 

 

[Evans Electric]

Its the position of the isolator really , not  the length of cable .   In common sense terms an isolator needs to be near the device ,   putting it on the other side of the room ,say,  would confuse the untrained eye. 

Cookers & hobs often have plenty of extra cable to allow for lifting them out .  

 

[Mike Noc]

That makes sense. Got the oven out and it is 6mm T&E. As to the amount of free cable, I undid the mounting screws and there was about an inch of movement before it became tight! Whoever had installed it had fitted the oven in the cabinet, pulled all the spare cable through the back of the cabinet and then threaded it through holes drilled in the back of the other cabinets round to the junction box. Not even clipped to the wall.

I will be treating myself to a longer cable before the oven goes back in.

 

[Evans Electric]

I will be treating myself to a longer cable before the oven goes back in.

Yes do that ,  thats the right way .   Kitchen fitter probably did it in the first place , giving no thought to anyone getting it out again .  

 

[Mike Noc]

Thanks - things have moved on a bit as management has decided we should have a new oven and hob. I have a couple of questions and have put them here as I'm not sure this is the place for such stuff - only just joined the forum so still trying to find my way round!