Change a hard wired appliance point to a normal power socket

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

If you have a hard wired appliance point in your home—such as for an electric cooker or a built-in oven—and you want to change it to a standard power socket, it can make your kitchen or utility area far more versatile. A hard wired point means the appliance is permanently connected to your electrical supply, without a plug and socket outlet. Upgrading to a normal socket allows you to plug and unplug appliances easily or use different devices in the same space.

This job is commonly needed when you replace an appliance with one that uses a standard plug, or if you want greater flexibility in your kitchen layout. However, because it involves making permanent changes to your fixed electrical installation, it must be done carefully and in accordance with UK electrical safety standards.

🔧 What the job involves

Changing a hard wired appliance point to a normal power socket means converting a dedicated, fixed electrical connection into a typical socket outlet—such as a double socket or a cooker socket, depending on the appliance’s requirements.

Here’s what this usually entails:

Locating the existing wiring for the hard wired point, which is often connected to a fuse spur or fused connection unit (FCU).
Isolating the circuit to ensure safety before any work.
Removing the fixed wiring connection and installing a new socket outlet in a suitable wall box.
Ensuring the socket and wiring meet the requirements of BS 7671, the UK’s IET Wiring Regulations.
Testing the new socket for correct operation and safety.
Reinstating the circuit’s consumer unit protection if adjusted during the work.

An electrician will also check if the existing circuit can safely support a standard socket and if other precautions or upgrades are needed.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Initial enquiry: Contact a qualified electrician and explain your current setup and what you want. They’ll check if a site visit is needed.
Site survey and quote: The electrician visits your home to assess the existing wiring, the suitability of the circuit, and access for the new socket.
Quotation acceptance: Review and agree a price and schedule for the work.
Booking the job: Arrange a convenient date for the electrician to carry out the work.
Day of the work: The electrician will isolate and test circuits, remove the hard wired connection, install the socket, and complete safety checks.
Completion and certification: The electrician will explain the work done, hand over any test results or certification, and tidy up.
Keep paperwork: Retain all documentation for your records and future reference.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: Typically charged per hour or as a fixed job rate. Expect around 1–2 hours for straightforward work.
Materials/parts: New socket unit, back box (if required), wiring accessories.
Extras: Any needed circuit upgrades, additional wiring, or remedial work.
Disposal: Minor charge if old components are removed.
Certification: Electrical work in consumer units requires an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) or a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate. Usually included in the quote.

Example cost breakdown for a straightforward change:

Labour: £80–£120
Socket outlet: £10–£20
Back box and accessories: £10–£15
Certification: £30–£50
Total estimated cost: £130–£205 (including VAT)

📊 What affects the price

Access to the existing hard wired point (e.g., behind cupboards or plaster).
Complexity of the existing wiring and consumer unit layout.
Whether the circuit needs upgrading to meet regulations.
Remedial works required if cables or fittings are not compliant.
Location within the property (ground floor vs upstairs, distance from consumer unit).
Urgency — same-day or weekend work usually costs more.
Any additional sockets or wiring requested.

⏱ How long does it take?

Straight swap: Typically around 1 to 2 hours for a simple replacement.
Complex installations: If rewiring or consumer unit upgrades are needed, it could take half a day or more.

Your electrician will provide a clearer estimate based on your home’s specifics.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

It’s strongly advised not to DIY this kind of work unless you are a qualified electrician. UK regulations (BS 7671) must be followed to ensure electrical safety. Incorrect installation risks electric shock, fire hazards, and insurance issues.

Changing a hard wired point requires isolating circuits safely and understanding the wiring system, which is beyond the scope of most homeowners. Additionally, certain electrical work must be notified to Local Authority Building Control or registered with a competent person scheme to comply with Part P of the Building Regulations.

Hiring a Gas Safe or similarly qualified electrician ensures all safety checks, regulations, and certification are properly handled.

💰 Typical UK price range

A typical professional job to change a hard wired appliance point to a normal socket usually costs between £130 and £260, including VAT. This covers labour, materials, certification, and minor extras. More complicated jobs may cost more.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Confirm the electrician is qualified and registered with a competent person scheme.
Prepare easy access to the appliance point by clearing cupboards or moving furniture.
Check if the socket position suits your intended appliance and kitchen layout.
Ask for a clear written quote and certification paperwork upon completion.
Keep all receipts and certificates for future reference, especially if selling your home.
Test the new socket with your appliance on completion.
Regularly check sockets for signs of wear or heat once installed.

Making sure the job is done safely and correctly helps your home’s electrical system stay reliable and compliant.