Fixington

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

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Installing a new power outlet specifically for a cooker or other hard-wired kitchen appliance is a common electrical job in UK homes. It’s often needed when you’re upgrading your kitchen, installing a new electric cooker or hob, or rearranging appliances. Unlike simple plug sockets, cookers usually require a dedicated circuit and a specific power outlet — either a cooker control unit or a similar isolator switch — to safely handle their high electrical load.

Having this set up correctly is crucial for the appliance’s performance and for household safety, ensuring compliance with UK wiring regulations and electrical safety standards.

🔧 What the job involves

At its core, the job is about installing a dedicated cooker connection unit or outlet near your appliance’s location and connecting the cooker’s hard-wired cables to this supply safely. Here’s what that means in plain terms:

  • Running an appropriate circuit from your consumer unit (fuse box) or the nearest suitable junction.
  • Installing a cooker control switch or socket outlet designed for cookers, typically rated at 32A or 45A, depending on the model and power rating.
  • Connecting the cooker’s fixed wiring to this outlet, ensuring all wiring is correctly sized, protected by the right fuse or circuit breaker, and properly earthed.
  • Testing the circuit for correct polarity, insulation, and overall safety.
  • Providing certification under Part P of the Building Regulations confirming the work complies with UK electrical safety standards.

This job must comply with the latest 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), so it’s not just about fitting a plug and socket but about using the right materials, connections, and protection devices to prevent overloads or hazards.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact your electrician describing your cooker or appliance, existing power supply (if any), and installation location.
  2. Site visit and survey: The electrician visits to assess the existing wiring, circuit capacity, and best route for new cabling. They’ll check accessibility and measure where the cooker outlet will be sited.
  3. Quote issue: You receive a clear written quote covering labour, parts, certification, and any extras.
  4. Schedule the work: Arrange a convenient time for the electrician to carry out the installation.
  5. On the day: The electrician isolates power safely, runs wiring from the consumer unit or existing circuit, installs the cooker control switch or outlet, and connects the appliance’s cable.
  6. Testing and certification: A full safety test is conducted; you receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or Minor Work Certificate.
  7. Completion and advice: The electrician explains your new cooker connection operation, hands over paperwork, and answers questions.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electrician’s hourly or fixed rate for installation and testing, usually between £80–£120 per hour.
  • Materials/parts: Cooker control unit or outlet (£20–£60), appropriate cable (depends on length and rating), fuse or breaker.
  • Extras: Core drilling or chasing walls for cables if needed, or extra fittings/plates (£20–£50).
  • Disposal: Minimal unless removing old units.
  • Certification: Often included in labour, or £20–£40 extra for paperwork.

A typical itemisation might look like this:

  • Labour: 2 hours at £90 = £180
  • Cooker control unit: £40
  • Cable and accessories: £30
  • Certification: £30
  • Total estimated cost: ~£280 (excluding VAT)

📊 What affects the price

  • Ease of access: Difficult access to consumer unit or cooker space increases time and cost.
  • Circuit complexity: Need for a new circuit versus using an existing one.
  • Regulations/certification: Compliance with Part P and Building Regulations may require additional work or paperwork.
  • Remedial work: Replacing old/inadequate wiring or fuse boxes.
  • Location: Regional price differences or if the property is listed or has special constraints.
  • Timeline: Short-notice or out-of-hours appointments can be more expensive.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Straightforward swap: Replacing an old cooker outlet with a new one or connecting a cooker where wiring is already in place usually takes around 1–2 hours.
  • New circuit installation: Running new cable back to the consumer unit or installing new circuit breakers can extend the job to 3–4 hours.
  • Additional complications: Such as chasing walls for cable routing or upgrading boards, might add a day.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Cooking appliances require a dedicated hard-wired electrical supply complying fully with safety regulations. Most UK homeowners are advised not to undertake this work themselves because:

  • Incorrect wiring risks electrical shock, fire, or damage to the cooker.
  • Work must comply with BS 7671 and Part P Building Regulations.
  • Certification and notification to building control are needed for new or altered circuits.
  • Many electricians will refuse liability if work is done privately without qualification.

Always hire a Gas Safe-registered electrician if your cooker is a dual-fuel or gas hybrid to ensure safe gas and electrical connections.

💰 Typical UK price range

For installing a cooker power outlet and connecting the appliance, expect a rough typical range of:

£200 to £450 (including VAT at 20%)

Prices will depend on the scope, required parts, and property specifics.

This estimate includes fixed wiring, cooker control unit installation, connection, testing, and certification.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Know your cooker’s power rating: Check your appliance manual for current and voltage requirements to ensure correct circuit design.
  • Clear the installation area: Remove obstacles around the cooker space so the electrician can work safely and efficiently.
  • Verify access to your consumer unit: Make sure it’s readily accessible for circuit connections and isolation.
  • Keep paperwork safe: Store the electrical certificates and any warranty info provided. This may be needed for insurance or future sale.
  • Arrange a test run: Once installed, run the cooker through typical cycles and report any issues promptly.
  • Plan for aftercare: If your cooker has servicing needs, consider scheduling regular checks by qualified engineers.
  • Ask for a full explanation: Good electricians will explain what they’ve done and advise on ongoing electrical safety in your home.

Taking these steps ensures your cooker connection is safe, reliable, and compliant with UK regulations — giving you peace of mind and a kitchen that works as it should.