socket-outlet question

[Hotspot]

Hi all
What I would like to know if a socket-outlet may be right above (10cm) the built-in stove plates ?
Thanks

[AndyD]

Can you attach a photo?
It's a bit late for me to go hunting for the regs now but from memory I think it's specifically not recommend it but I don't think it's forbidden so it's something that would need to be decided by a person competant to do so. Maybe one of our regular sparkies who work domestic will give a better opinion.

[MullerR]

Accorrding to the reg. 6.15.6.1: "A socket-outlet that is exposed to the wheater (or to the condensation, dripping, splashing or accumulation of water) shall have a rating of at least IP44 in accordance with SANS60529/IEC60529. The rating applies whether a plug is in or out.

[Hotspot]

This is the socket-outlet. Thanks guys. I'll disconnect it.

[ACEsterhuizen]

If the (cbi or any other non-metallic) IP44 socket outlet (electrical equipment) is mounted (positioned) so that:

5.1.2 Temperature

5.1.2.1 Unless otherwise permitted by an applicable standard (see 4.3
and table 4.2), electrical equipment shall be so designed, positioned and
protected that accessible parts under normal operating conditions do not
reach a temperature (safe touch temperature) that exceeds

a) 70C in the case of metallic parts, and

b) 90C in the case of non-metallic parts.

So, if the stove plate are on, with a pot standing on the plate cooking something, (normal operating condition) the non-metallic socket outlet must not exceed a temperature of 90 deg Cel. That you can measure with Infra Red Thermometer. Metal socket outlets not more than 70C. If the plate is directly under the plug i will almost guarantee you that the plastic cover will reach more than 90C and melt (eventually). But you have to measure it to be sure. You must have the Degree Celsius.

So me personally, I will not sign a CoC in that case, (if the temps exceeds the regulations) I will remove the electrical equipment from that position. But, if the temps stays within the limits according to regulation, and there is no other regs issues, i will sign it gladly.

ps. The normal CBI pvc plastic plugs are all IP44.

[AndyD]

Yeah, I've seen a few in the past that are a debatable for environmental reasons but the one in the photo would fall fair and square in the unsafe category in my opinion. Temperature of the actual socket aside, any appliance plugged into it would leave a trailing cable in contact with one of the hob elements or extremely close. I'd remove/relocate that one.

[MullerR]

Not a very bright place to install a socket outlet in the first place. Maybe the stove was installed afterwards, but still. I will also relocate the sockey outlet to a more safe location.

[markthespark]

I would also definitely disconnect it and install a blank coverplate. If it is last in line I would remove the wiring to prevent re-connection!!

[SilverNodashi]

Sorry to hijack this post, but I need to ask a question related to the @OP.
Am I allowed to connect a wall socket to existing stove wiring, if / when the stove is removed? The purpose of the plug would be to "feed" some induction hot plates, and a new cupboard will be built where the stove was.

[Dave A]

Am I allowed to connect a wall socket to existing stove wiring, if / when the stove is removed?

Essentially you'd be converting the circuit to a socket outlet only circuit. Meet the requirements for a socket outlet circuit and you'll be good to go.

[SilverNodashi]

ok, so I can't keep the stove isolator, just bypass the one in the wall, and replace the one in the DB with a normal MCB?

[Dave A]

You are allowed one socket outlet on a stove circuit, but fine print applies. (Has fuse protection and is on earth leakage from memory).

Otherwise I should think you're going to have to make the circuit one or the other - a cooking appliance circuit or a socket outlet circuit.

[kosmonooit]

ok, so I can't keep the stove isolator, just bypass the one in the wall, and replace the one in the DB with a normal MCB?

I cant see the isolator being an issue if its kept in circuit, its just a glorified switch, but you will need to make sure that circuit has ELP and a suitable circuit breaker.