If you own a HMO, a residential property, or student accommodation, you will no doubt have to deal with electrics in the kitchen at some point. After all, it is a legal requirement for landlords to ensure that all the electrics within the property are safe and fit for purpose. This means regular PAT testing, as well as Electrical Inspection Condition Reports. And it is entirely possible that your kitchen will need an update at some point, which would probably involve some rewiring or updating of the electrics. Here at Walker Electrical, we are Preston’s leading electrical experts. And we work across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors to provide top quality electrical solutions. This includes working with kitchens. As a result, we have produced this guide to electrical regulations for the kitchen
Electrical regulations for the kitchen
The kitchen is considered to be a high risk part of the home. With water, gas and electricity combining in one room, it’s no surprise that more than 50% of all house fires begin in the kitchen. So whatever you plan to do with your electrics, do so carefully. And also follow the building regulations for your area.
Regulation 512.2.1 is applicable in this scenario, as it states that external influences should be considered when selecting equipment for a particular location. For example, as regular domestic sockets are not splash-proof, it would be against the regulation to install a socket so close to the sink. Instead, it is recommended that there be at least 300mm in between.
Sockets and switches in the kitchen
As well as being a minimum of 300 mm away from water, sockets should also be easily accessible. This means that if your sockets for the fridge, freezer or washing machine are underneath the work-surfaces, at the back of the appliances, they will not be east to get to. Or to see. And this can result in wear and tear and other issues, that you cannot monitor. As a result, these appliances should ideally be controlled by a switched fuse connection unit, mounted above the worktop.
For more information and advice, get in touch with the experts today, here at Walker Electrical.