Install a new power outlet for a cooker or other hard-wired appliance and connect the appliance

⭐ Introduction

Installing a new power outlet for a cooker or other hard-wired appliance is a common electrician’s job in UK homes. You might need this when replacing an old cooker, adding an induction hob, or installing appliances like an electric oven or a fixed extractor fan. Unlike plug-in appliances, these usually connect directly to a dedicated power supply via a fused connection unit (FCU) or a cooker switch.

This job ensures your appliance has a safe, reliable power source that complies with UK electrical safety standards, such as BS 7671 Wiring Regulations. It’s essential for safe operation and protecting your wiring and appliances from electrical faults.

🔧 What the job involves

When an electrician installs a new power outlet for a cooker or similar fixed appliance, they’ll:

• Identify the correct circuit and fuse rating for the appliance’s power needs.
• Fit an appropriate cooker control switch or fused connection unit (FCU) close to the appliance, usually in a kitchen or utility room.
• Run suitable cabling from your consumer unit (fuse box) to the new outlet, ensuring the cable size matches the appliance’s amperage.
• Connect the appliance’s power cable to the new outlet.
• Test the installation for proper function and safety.
• Provide a certificate confirming the work meets Part P Building Regulations and BS 7671, which is important for insurance and resale.

This setup is different from a typical 13A socket. Cookers and some large appliances need dedicated circuits to handle their higher power loads safely.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Initial enquiry
   Contact a Gas Safe or Part P registered electrician (check if needed for your appliance type) and describe the appliance and location.

2. Site survey and quote
   The electrician visits your home to assess the current wiring, access, and requirements. They will provide a quote including labour, materials, and certification.

3. Schedule the job
   Agree a convenient date. The electrician may advise you on preparing the area by clearing cupboards or work surfaces.

4. Day of works
   The electrician installs the new cooker point, runs cables, fits the cooker control switch or FCU, and connects the appliance.

5. Testing and certification
   They carry out safety tests (insulation resistance, polarity, etc.) and complete an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate.

6. Review and aftercare
   The electrician explains the work done, provides paperwork, and answers any questions. They may offer advice on servicing or warranties.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour: Electrician’s hourly rate or fixed job price (£70–£100 per hour typical). Installation usually 2–4 hours.
• Materials/parts: Cooker control switch or FCU (£15–£30), wiring (depends on length, usually a few metres of armoured cable).
• Extras: Additional circuit breakers if needed (£20–£50), consumer unit upgrades for older homes.
• Disposal: Small charge for removing old fittings (rarely more than £20).
• Certification: Included in most quotes, but can cost £50–£100 if separate.

Example: Installing a simple cooker control switch on a new dedicated circuit could cost around £250–£400 all included.

📊 What affects the price

• Access to existing wiring (easy vs. chasing walls or attic runs).
• Distance from consumer unit (longer cable runs need more materials and time).
• Complexity (single FCU or multiple circuits, adding breakers).
• Regulations and certification requirements (Part P compliance).
• Remedial works (upgrading old wiring or fixing faults).
• Location (prices may vary between urban and rural; London may be costlier).
• Timeline (emergency or short-notice installs usually cost more).

⏱ How long does it take?

• Straightforward replacement or new cooker control switch nearby: 2–3 hours.
• More complex jobs (new circuit from consumer unit, longer cable runs, any consumer unit modifications): 4–6 hours or more.
• Additional testing, paperwork, or remedial work might add extra time.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing or altering cooker outlets is a job best left to professionals. Electrical work must meet BS 7671 standards and Part P Building Regulations, which includes proper certification. Mistakes can risk fire, shock, or appliance damage. Hard-wiring appliances requires knowledge of electrical circuits, correct cable sizing, protective devices, and safety testing equipment.

For safety and legal compliance, always hire a qualified Part P registered electrician. This is especially important if the work involves consumer unit changes or new circuits.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect a typical cost between £250 and £600 including VAT, depending on complexity and location.
This estimate covers labour, materials, certification, and minor additional works. Larger projects or older homes needing rewiring upgrades may push costs higher.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Clear kitchen cupboards or worktops near the installation area to give the electrician enough workspace.
• Arrange for access to the consumer unit/fuse box.
• Make a note of your appliance’s model and power rating; it helps the electrician to size the circuit correctly.
• Keep any certification and paperwork safe — you’ll need it for home insurance and future buyers.
• Consider testing or servicing appliances regularly for ongoing safety and efficiency.
• If replacing an old cooker, check manufacturer’s instructions about electrical connections or consider newer appliance compatibility.

By planning ahead and hiring a competent professional, you can ensure your cooker or hard-wired appliance is installed safely and properly for years of trouble-free use.