sockets wired in 1.0mm 3 core flex

[electrician4u]

Doing a re-wire for a customer who's had their kitchen redone recently and told me the electrics are fine.when I checked, they've all been wired using 1.0mm 3 core flex then sealed underneath tiles.I can't remove the tiles or pull through new cables.Is it permissable to leave it connected like this and if I do, what max breaker can I use?Can I simply write on the form about the departure from the regs?

 

[Marvo]

How is the circuit protected? Isit a ring or a radial? Maybe it is safe if they've used a 5A MCB.

 

[Des 56]

May be wise to invest in one of these
Google Image Result for http://www.toolgurus.co.uk/upload/ecomproduct/sds%2B-scutch-comb-holder-chisel/product-1300372081.jpg

 

[electrician4u]

I did metion they're sockets so I don't think a 5A MCB is a serious suggestion.I also mentioned I cannot rip off the tiles so purchasing a scutch chisel would seem somewhat pointless.Any serious suggestions?

 

[Deleted member 26818]

Taking into account that there are probably de-rating factors that would apply, most likely 10A.
If there are no de-rating factors, then 16A.

 

[Marvo]

Your questions are somewhat confusing. It doesn't matter that they're sockets, the MCB size is determined by the the CSA of the cable, it's length and the installation method.

My questions are still relevant; is it a radial or ring? How is the circuit protected ie is there an RCD or RCBO?

 

[Strima]

Best change the MCB for 10A then if your cable calcs allow. If their kitchen has been done by a company I would be recommending that they get them back to do it properly. As they require power then I would run in a circuit that would be suitable in the mean time IF and a big IF they are willing to go for the extra spend.

Did you do a full survey before the rewire and agree and limitations etc with the customer?

 

[electrician4u]

they appear to be wired as a ring which i can connect into and i'm changing the CU so would i get away with a 20 A MCB?

 

[electrician4u]

I did a limited PIR before but didn't take every socket off the wall.Had no reason to suspect that it had been done in flex.I assume the homeowner either did it himself or a mate of the kitchen fitter did it. either way, it makes it difficult to remedy.

 

[Strima]

Is there an EIC for the sockets? It would be worth looking at.

 

[electrician4u]

you're kidding aren't you.?..it's clearly not been done by an electrician

 

[Richard Burns]

This is certainly an unusual and poor method of installation, however since the ccc of a 1mm flex is 10A (so long as there are no derating factors (which is unlikely) ) then you would be able to have this as a ring on a 20A MCB.
I would tend towards spin's position and use a 16A MCB to allow for the installation methods. This could lead to nuisance tripping, especially in a kitchen, but would meet the requirements of the regulations ( but I would make a note on the certificate). It may be a good idea to, if possible run in another radial for high current appliances like kettles and toasters so that they are off the main ring.
A standard household circuit should be OK on 16A but maybe not a kitchen.

 

[Geoffsd]

433.1.103

 

[Deleted member 26818]

they appear to be wired as a ring which i can connect into and i'm changing the CU so would i get away with a 20 A MCB?

No.
You have cables with a maximum CCC of 10A, that's without any de-rating factors.
You place a 20A load anywhere other than at the mid point of the ring, and you're going to oveload one of the cables.
The maximum you can have is 16A.

 

[Guitarist]

Deleted what I wanted to say...

I am speechless....