Converting Electrical Sockets

[Deactivated] on 24/09/2014 - 08:02

any electricians here?

i want to know how to go about converting a single plug socket into a double one.

just moved into a new flat and my room only has one single socket in it -vs- about 8 things i need to plug in regularly.

not really a huge fan of daisychaining extension leads and power boards all over the room so was thinking this wold be the best and safest way to increase outlets in my room.

has to be fairly simple, but i can't find any info online that's not for UK or US.

FYI the socket is one of those small ones attached to the skirting board in the room.

any help appreciated.

Electrical & Electronics

Comments

  • Cheeper on 24/09/2014 - 08:41
    +6

    Get an electrician, it is the cheapest and safest way.

    If you are renting the flat then if the LL discovered that you have been modifying power points yourself then you might be looking for new accommodation in a very short time.

    It is an easy job but if you get it wrong then things can get messy.

    For the best diy option a good powerboard with switches for each socket is the way to go.

    • ESEMCE on 24/09/2014 - 09:09

      You need to talk to the Land-lord - They shouldn't have a problem with it if you're going to pay.

  • hothed on 24/09/2014 - 08:48
    +1

    You mention safety in your post. You also want to DIY a licenced trade.

    The safest way is to buy a powerboard.

    • [Deactivated] on 24/09/2014 - 09:13

      so i won't have any issues using a powerboard to plug 8 devices into one socket?

      • MercSal on 24/09/2014 - 09:17
        +8

        It's not really that straight forward.

        8 Toasters - you are going to have problems
        1 Lamp, 2 chargers, a clock radio, a tv, laptop etc etc - you should be fine.

        Just buy a decent powerboard, maybe with a surge protector.

      • Cheeper on 24/09/2014 - 09:17
        +2

        it will depend on what the current draw of the 8 items are. Things like phone chargers etc don't draw much at all.
        Look for one that has overload protection built in (and a switch for each socket too).

      • jatcave on 24/09/2014 - 09:48
        +4

        Whether you have one socket or two, it's still one set of wires to the plug. ie the same fuse/circuit breaker. Changing it to a double socket does not double its capacity to handle extra appliances. As has been mentioned, you have to consider what it is that you'll be connecting. +1 to mercsal.

        • ESEMCE on 24/09/2014 - 09:55

          +1
          Essentially a double socket (or multi socket) is just a double adapter screwed into the wall.

          If you need to run multiple High Power devices (ie Toaster/Kettle/Microwave/Coffee Machine) from the same circuit (this will likely entail multiple plug-points around the room and even into other rooms), you'd need to ensure that you only ever use one device at a time.
          Or ideally, get new circuits (new wire from the switchboard) run to where you need them.

        • Domingo on 24/09/2014 - 10:28
          +2

          @scubacoles: Logically yes, but a properly installed double wall socket is better than a double adapter as it is wired in directly rather than being plugged into the socket. The connection a double adapter makes is more prone to generating heat than a wall socket that is wired directly.

          Typically won't be an issue for one, but when people start plugging double adapters into double adapters, problems can occur.

        • [Deactivated] on 24/09/2014 - 10:30

          So… If I wanted 2 power boards to go to two different areas of the room I can just use a double adapter? I just find those are usually really cheaply made but will look for a good quality one I guess.

          For the record, I will be plugging in at the same time (but won't all be switched on simultaneously… Although some will undoubtedly be on standby): TV, 2 games consoles, laptop, misc chargers (2-3approx) lamp plus 1 or 2 other similar things.

          Also.. Thoughts on double socket adapter to extension cable to 4 way powerboard? Just doesnt seem very safe…

        • ESEMCE on 24/09/2014 - 10:34
          +1

          @didsburydan:
          Agreed, not very safe..
          Definitely worth getting the socket upgraded to a double (by a professional), or running Powerboard #2 + Extension cable from a different socket.

      • WT on 25/09/2014 - 10:33

        Most household sockets are rated to 10A (conservative, age of house, condition of wires etc)

        Add up all the things you will be running and if its under 10A you will be fine if using a good quality powerboard.

        It will say the power draw on the power brick, charger etc. Phone/tablet chargers, LED lights are usually little significance (under 1A each)

        Word of warning, if your running close to the limit, tape up any unused sockets on the board- the temptation to plug a vac in without thinking is easy to overlook

        • thereyougo on 25/09/2014 - 16:58

          As previously mentioned by wholesaleturbos, 10 amps is generally your output max, so 240 x 10 = 2400 watts. So add up what you intend plugging in to the power board, assuming you've bought a 2400watt power board, and make sure it's not near max rated wattage.

  • Peace Maker on 24/09/2014 - 09:58

    How would you feel about moving into a place where the last tenant was doing their own 240 volt electrical mods using google? Pretty sure we don't need a poll about ppl's thoughts on that.

    • [Deactivated] on 24/09/2014 - 10:35

      Where did I mention I'd be doing the work myself?

      • ESEMCE on 24/09/2014 - 10:56

        It's implied here

        has to be fairly simple, but i can't find any info online that's not for UK or US.

        • Peace Maker on 24/09/2014 - 11:03

          It's implied here

          Agreed. One phone call to an electrician for free and you'd likely have an answer. FWIW, based on my experience, the cable behind the wall is the same on both single and double GPO's. An electrician will carry double GPO's in their truck. Will likely charge you the hourly rate plus parts to swap them over. Probably a 15 minute job, max, depending on the premises.

  • Annoying Source on 24/09/2014 - 11:21
    +1

    If it's any help I have a tv, High end computer, monitor, speakers, eneloop charger, external HHD and an xbox one all plugged into a single 8 or 10 (can't remember) power board. Just get a good one with surge protection and you'll be sweet.

    My dad's an electrician and I've worked with him many times and I'm still not comfortable messing with power points because even if nothing happens when you do the job, once you plug something into it you might fry the point and the appliance (Is a job my dad fixes all the time for people)

  • Baysew on 24/09/2014 - 12:22

    Remember not to arc up at the electrician, if you are shocked to find out how much they charge.

    • kiitos on 25/09/2014 - 22:50
      +1

      Watt??? Of course they'd expect some resistance, being overcharged in your own ohm.

  • ramshead on 25/09/2014 - 09:41

    A major consideration when doing unlicensed electrical work is that you may void the landlord's ( or your own ) property insurance. If something went wrong and there was a fire and the insurance company can prove you did unlicensed work , you may be held accountable.Either go the power boards (many have earth leakage and overload protection) or get an electrician through the landlord.

  • NoMoreScoopon on 25/09/2014 - 11:03

    Ask if the landlord will do it and pay for it as a gesture of goodwill. I own a few properties and I do try to make life easier for the tenants if the request is reasonable.

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