Fixing a Damaged Socket

A socket can become damaged due to various reasons, such as a physical blow breaking the faceplate or overheating causing scorching. Scorching usually results from overloading the socket or loose connections in a plug. It's crucial to address the underlying issue before plugging anything back in to prevent recurrence.

Steps to Fix a Damaged Socket

Step 1: Isolate the Circuit

1. Turn off the circuit and use a socket tester to confirm it's dead.
2. Unscrew the socket faceplate and carefully pull it away from the wall. Keep the screws in case the new ones don't fit.

Step 2: Disconnect the Wires

1. Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the cable cores.
2. If the insulation is heat-damaged, trim back the cores and strip the ends.
3. If the earth core is bare, cover it with green/yellow sleeving.

Step 3: Connect the New Faceplate

1. Attach the red core(s) to the live terminal of the new faceplate, the black core(s) to the neutral terminal, and the earth core(s) to the earth terminal.
2. Tighten all terminal screws securely.
3. Reattach the new faceplate. If the new screws don't fit, use the original ones.
4. Use a socket tester to ensure the wiring is correct.

Adding an Extra Socket

If you need more sockets, you can convert single sockets to doubles. For a completely new socket, you can add a spur from a ring circuit. This can be done by:

• Running the spur from an existing socket.
• Using a junction box connected to the cable run of a suitable ring circuit.

Ensure the circuit has RCD protection for safety.