Power socket installation 230/400 V

A 400 V power socket is needed for some induction hobs, electric cookers, storage heaters and workshop machines. It needs its own circuit with the right cable and a breaker in the consumer unit. Work in the consumer unit is done by someone with electrical qualifications.

The price is per socket. Running the cable and any changes in the consumer unit are charged separately.

What the installation covers

• checking whether the flat has a three-phase supply;
• choosing the cable and breaker for the appliance’s power;
• fitting the back box and a 230 V or 400 V socket;
• connecting and labelling the circuit in the consumer unit;
• testing and checking the phase order.

Safety

A power socket runs at higher voltage and current. An undersized cable heats up, and the wrong phase order can damage a motor. That is why the power is switched off before work and tests are done afterwards. Connecting a three-phase socket yourself is dangerous.

What to prepare

Check the appliance’s rating plate and give its power and plug type in the request. Add a photo of the consumer unit and the socket location. If you are not sure whether you have three phases, a photo of the meter and consumer unit lets the tradesperson tell.

Common questions