Consumer Unit 13 Way Unpopulated

Electrical accessories are the fittings and fixings that complete an electrical installation: back boxes, conduit, trunking and glands, cable clips, armoured cable, telephone and coaxial sockets, weatherproof sockets and switches, timers, extension leads and cable reels, and underfloor heating mats with their thermostats. Spare fan parts and controllers for commercial refrigeration are included too.

Indoor and outdoor ratings

The IP code, set out in BS EN 60529, shows how well an enclosure keeps out solid objects (the first digit) and water (the second digit). Outdoor sockets, switches and boxes need a rating suited to their position, so check the IP figure on the product.

Extension leads and cable reels

Check the current rating marked on the lead or reel: most are 13 amps, but some are lower. Do not plug in appliances that together exceed it, and do not plug one extension lead into another. A cable reel only gives its full rating when the cable is fully unwound. Where the circuit has no RCD protection at the consumer unit, use an RCD plug or adaptor, especially for tools and equipment used outdoors.

Fixed wiring and regulations

Match back boxes to the accessory and wall: flush boxes for plastered walls, surface or metal clad boxes for exposed or workshop use. In England, some electrical work in homes is notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations, including new circuits, consumer unit replacement and some work in bathrooms. Notifiable work must be done by a registered competent person or notified to building control. This can include outdoor sockets on a new circuit and underfloor heating in a bathroom.

For lamps, light fittings and other electrical products, browse electrical and lighting.