UK electrical socket query?

Question

I have a 15amp round pin socket and plug (for my boiler) and I'd like to attach another plug to the socket, but I cannot find an adaptor that will let me connect a normal square pin plug to the existing round pin socket. Will it be safe to change the socket (and boiler plug) to a square pin socket and plug and put a 15amp fuse into the boiler plug. I'm hoping that this would allow me to put multiple plugs in the one socket.

Thank you

Jody Mackay

Answer 1

even though the socket it 15 amps boilers only run on 5amp fuses you will need to change the socket for a more modern one however boilers must have a socket on their own that can be isolated when working on the system its not recommended you add any other Appliance to the same socket however if you have another socket close by use this the only other alternative is to have another socket fitted as a spur close by (you are allowed 1 spur on a ring main) but you will need an electrician

Answer 2

If the round-pin socket is for an IMMERSION then you shouldn't be taking anything other than power for the immersion from it. Regulations require a dedicated (sole-use) circuit for heating



If it's for a boiler, then it's acceptable to take additional sockets from the circuit as it no longer requires a dedicated heating circuit. A Boiler should be fused at either 3A or 5A anyway. The fuse at the board protects the wiring, so it's not possible to overload it, even if you put dozens of sockets on it



Be VERY careful that you remove /turn off the correct fuse at the fuseboard before you start working

Answer 3

i would change the socket to a double pole fused switched spur outlet with neon indicator ,hard wire the boiler into this,and insert a 5amp fuse in the fuse carrier. from the feed side or this outlet i would bring a cable in trunking to a new double switched socket away from the immediate boiler area to minimize the effects of heat(expansion and contraction) from the boiler on plug top and socket connections,as it sounds like an old oil boiler set up here. but if its for an immersion, do not add any sockets on to this circuit.this should all be done by an electrician with proper installation test equipment ,to test for earth continuity/resistance,insulation resistance,loop impedance, and protective device trip times.

Answer 4

This socket may be on a radial circuit meant just for supplying the boiler,if it is a radial then it would be unsafe to change anything as then there would be a potential for you to overload the circuit.

EDIT:Site below will let you know reason for your dedicated 15amp round pin plug and socket,also they're not illegal.

Answer 5

I'd leave this plug well alone unless you are a qualified electrician. If you put extra sockets on a power line that's already drawing a current of 15 amp then you have the risk of overheating the wires and starting a fire in your walls. Have you got another plug in the same area that is a square socket so you could use an extension cable. If not then get an electrician to run out a few more sockets. A lot safer than burning down your house

Answer 6

The answer is no, you can't do it. The standard 13A (square pin) plug will not accept a 15A fuse. The only ones made to fit these plugs are 3A, 5A and 13A.



Don't attempt to change the socket. The 15A plugs are still available (but not commonplace) because they are often used for immersion heater connectors. If you can find one then get yourself a two-way extension lead with a built in fuse (very important for safety and to prevent overloading the 15A circuit) and fit the new 15A plug to the end. Your boiler will work with a 13A plug on it.

Answer 7

A 13 a plug and socket should NEVER be used on a boiler. It should be hardwired through it;s own outlet.

A builder was working in our previous house which had a13 amp socket supplying the boiler. , he removed the plug, and plugged in a concrete breaker, flipped the switch, and turned on the machine.

There was a puff of smoke from the Danfoss boiler controller as it burnt out, and I was left to buy and fit a new controller, £ 35

The builder said that it was not his fault, as he saw a 13 amp socket and assumed he could plug in his appliance.

LATER

I assume that the15 amp socket was done deliberately to prevent unlawful use of the outlet as in my case.

Answer 8

Yes you can change the socket and fit a 13 amp plug to the boiler, but this should be done by a qualified electrician.

Answer 9

round pin plugs are sockets do not comply with new regulations, they are also illegal, you can replace it with a new square pin plug and socket, only if u know what your doing, ohh and boilers are supposed to hve 3 amp fuses for safty not 15 amp

Answer 10

To be honest, if you still have round pin sockets it's time you had your wiring inspected and probably replaced. For your own safety if nothing else. You can discuss with the electrician while your at it the addition of extra sockets.

Answer 11

Get a Sparks in sounds dodgy to me

Answer 12

If you have to ask this - you do not have the competence to do the job safely - get an electrician to do it.



Don't screw with what you don't know.....

Answer 13

Don't mess with electricity if you don't know what you're doing.