Replacing an electric socket outlet (page 1)

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At some point, you may wish to replace an existing socket for various reasons. Perhaps the socket has become damaged or you wish to replace an unswitched one with a switched one. Whatever the reason, replacing sockets is a relatively straightforward task.

Switch off the power at the consumer unit and remove the fuse for the circuit.

Like for like socket outlet

When you are replacing the socket with the same type, you will need only to release the old one, disconnect the conductors and fit them to the new one, before finally resecuring the fascia plate. Note however, that old socket mounting boxes may need imperial gauge screws. In this case re-use the screws from the old fitting. With flush mounted sockets, the box set in the wall will allow replacement with any make of new socket outlet. With surface mounted boxes, the plate and box will need to match since they often have a slightly different shape.

Surface to flush socket outlet

This will require the removal of the socket and its box so that a recess may be cut into the wall to accommodate the new box. The fascia is removed, the conductors disconnected and the box removed The wall is cut out to accommodate the new box, working carefully so as to avoid damaging the cable. The cable is then fed in before finally reconnecting the socket outlet fascia.

Single to double socket outlet

When replacing a socket outlet, it may be just as well to install a double if the existing is a single one. There will be modest additional expense and only a little more cutting out to do if it is of the recessed type.

Continued...

• Supply new socket from another socket
• Supply new socket from a junction box
• Extending a ring main to supply a new socket
• Locating sockets
• Mounting sockets