DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

Hi guys

I'm currently ripping out the kitchen and replacing with new units. I have an electric oven which runs on a 13 amp fused plug. I also have a gas hob which is powered by a 3 amp plug.

I intend to hard wire these into a 32 amp cooker/ plug socket combined to make the appearance nicer

The existing double socket has been replaced with the socket/ cooker switch and the socket is now live with the existing wiring from the double.

As the wiring from the hob is not long enough I have used a junction box to connect the wires from the hob and cooker together. Would it be okay to use 2.5mm T&E cable to run the cable to the cooker switch?

I have used the cooker and hob on this set up and it appears fine although I'm not sure about whether it will stand the test of time, and I don't want any fire hazards in the future...

Would I be better to use 6mm cable instead as the feed from the switch and replace the junction box with a cooker outlet plate?

Advice would be much appreciated....

Thanks

Kerry793,
I would suggest you professional advice, on site, regarding your proposals.
end

Fixed cables do not have a single current rating it varies according to how installed. Cables are selected to the size of the automatic disconnection device (i.e. fuse or MCB) not what they supply. So likely if a B32 MCB is supplying a cable it would be at least 4mm and could be 10mm even if only supplying a door bell.

It is highly unlikely 2.5mm cable would be used. Clipped direct mineral insulated cable at 2.5mm could be used for a 32A supply but unlikely you are using mineral insulated cable. The twin and earth above a plasterboard ceiling covered by thermal insulation exceeding 100 mm in thickness thermoplastic insulated is only rated at 17A.

There are other factors as well so since in a kitchen either a scheme member electrician or the LACB will be involved so ask the professional on site.