1 Remove the old socket
Switch off the power at the consumer unit and remove the appropriate fuse to isolate the circuit you are working on. Remove the old socket: if the old single socket was flush mounted into the wall, release it from the metal box and disconnect the wires from all the terminals. Coil the wires inside the box. Mark the size of the new double box on the wall, over the old single box.
2 Fit the new box
To take the new double box, you will need to enlarge the recess in the wall. Prepare the new double metal box by removing the knockouts in the required entry positions and insert a rubber grommet into each to stop the sheathing from chaffing. Pass the cables through the knockouts, ensuring that the outer insulation is within the box, and screw the box into the recess.
3 Wire the new socket
For both flush mounted (left and far left) and surface mounted (above) sockets, coil the wires inside the box and make good any repairs to the wall, allowing any filler or plaster to dry completely before proceeding. Enclose the earth wire in green/yellow sleeving, wire up the new double socket, and secure the faceplate. Restore power and test both socket outlets.
Previous
