Fixington

Install an additional aerial socket

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Adding an extra aerial socket in your home is a common request when you want to connect another TV or radio without disconnecting the existing one. This is especially useful if you’ve recently created a new room or want to improve signal distribution for multiple devices.

An aerial socket is the wall point where your TV or radio aerial cable plugs in, carrying broadcast signals into your device. Installing an additional socket ensures each device receives a strong signal without having to unplug and move cables around.

This job is typical for homeowners upgrading or expanding their home entertainment setups, or when preparing a new room for TV use. It’s a relatively straightforward electrical task but does require care to maintain signal quality and safety standards.

🔧 What the job involves

When an electrician installs an additional aerial socket, they essentially tap into the existing aerial cable, extend or add new cabling, and fit a new wall socket. The process will generally follow these steps:

  • Locate the nearest main aerial feed or the location of the current socket.
  • Use a splitter or signal amplifier if multiple outputs are needed without signal loss.
  • Route a new cable neatly, usually inside walls or trunking, to the desired spot.
  • Fit a new faceplate with an aerial socket, matching your home’s decor and existing sockets.
  • Test the new socket for correct signal strength and quality, so your TV or radio works without issues.

Electricians use specialised tools like cable testers and signal meters to avoid signal degradation. This is important as poor installation can cause weak, flickering, or snowy pictures.

Because the work involves new cabling and alterations to your home’s wiring, a qualified electrician is the safest choice. Although the task is low voltage, working inside walls and ensuring safe, hidden cables is best left to professionals.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a local, qualified electrician with a description of your needs (number of sockets, room locations).
  2. Site survey / quote: The electrician visits your home to check existing cables, site access, and discuss locations. You’ll receive a written quote.
  3. Booking the job: Agree on a date and confirm the scope and costs.
  4. Preparation: Clear the work area, remove obstructions from walls or sockets where needed.
  5. Day of works: The electrician installs the additional socket following best practice, including cable runs, fixing faceplates, and testing.
  6. Testing: Full functionality and signal tests are carried out to ensure no loss or interference.
  7. Completion and handover: The electrician tidies up, explains how to use the new socket, and provides any paperwork or certification.
  8. Aftercare: Keep all receipts and certificates for future reference or warranty claims.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: £50–£100 per hour (typical job may take 1–2 hours).
  • Materials: New aerial socket faceplate (£5–£15), coaxial cable (£1–£3 per metre), splitter or amplifier if needed (£10–£40).
  • Extras: Longer cable runs or chasing walls for cables can add labour costs.
  • Disposal: Usually minimal, but electricians may charge a small fee if much waste is created.
  • Certification: No mandatory Building Regulations certificate for aerial sockets, but a professional might provide a job completion report.

Example basic cost breakdown:

  • Labour (2 hours): £120
  • Materials (socket + 5m cable): £25
  • Splitter (optional): £20
  • Total estimate: £145 (plus VAT if applicable)

📊 What affects the price

  • Ease of access: If the walls are stud/drywall or plaster, costs are lower than solid brick walls where chasing is needed.
  • Number of sockets: Adding more than one may reduce unit cost but increases overall price.
  • Signal equipment required: Amplifiers or better quality splitters add costs.
  • Condition of existing cables: Old or damaged cables might need replacement.
  • Location in the UK: Labour rates vary between regions and cities.
  • Urgency: Shorter notice or same-day jobs may be costlier.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple install: 1 to 2 hours for a straightforward aerial socket addition with easy access and minimal cable length.
  • Moderate complexity: 2 to 4 hours if walls need chasing, extra cable routing, or signal boosting.
  • Complex jobs: More than 4 hours if extensive rewiring, multiple rooms, or upgrading the entire aerial distribution is required.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While installing a new aerial socket is not as complicated as mains electrical work, it still involves handling cables inside walls and ensuring proper signal quality. Many homeowners could fit a new aerial socket if the cable is already in place and nothing needs chasing, but caution is advised.

Key reasons to hire a professional include:

  • Avoiding damage to walls or existing wiring.
  • Ensuring signal quality via appropriate use of splitters and correct cable type.
  • Knowledge of safe cable routing methods to prevent future issues.
  • Compliance with any building regulations for alterations in communal or rented properties.

If you do decide to DIY, only proceed if you feel confident with basic wiring, own the right tools, and understand signal requirements.

💰 Typical UK price range

For adding a single aerial socket, expect prices roughly between £100 and £250, including materials and labour. This is only an estimate; prices vary widely based on the factors above.

Most electricians will charge VAT at 20% unless you use a VAT-registered scheme or a qualifying small business exemption.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Decide on the exact location for the new socket considering room layout and furniture.
  • Check if your existing aerial system is in good condition before adding sockets.
  • Ask the electrician about signal amplifiers if you plan multiple sockets.
  • Clear furniture and wall space for easy access on installation day.
  • Keep copies of quotes, invoices, and any certificates issued.
  • Test the new socket with your TV or radio promptly and report any issues early.
  • If you live in a flat or shared building, check communal rules on aerial installations.

An additional aerial socket is a practical upgrade that improves convenience and enhances your home entertainment experience. Choosing a qualified electrician ensures the job is done safely, neatly, and to a standard that keeps your signals clear.