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Current rating of twin 13 amp sockets ?

broadgage

Is there any reliable information as to the current rating of a twin 13 amp socket.

Sounds simple enough, but views seem to differ. I was taught (decades ago) that a twin 13 amp socket manufactured to the relevant standards was suitable for a total load of 20 amps. And I recall that approval testing was done with 14 amps on one outlet and 6 amps on the other.

More recently though I recall respected members of this, and other forums, stating that the maximum total load is 13 amps and not 20 amps. And yes I know that 13 amp twin sockets  are marked “13 amps” on the back. But does this mean “maximum total load of 13 amps” or does it mean “intended to accept 13 amp plugs”

Any reliable views on this, preferably with a source.

And related to the above, I have heard that MK twin 13 amp sockets go beyond the minimum standards and are designed for a total loading of 26 amps. Can anyone confirm or deny this. And yes I have asked MK and have received several different answers !

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    Chris Pearson: 
    I didn't say that, but equally well, not every “overloaded” twin socket will be damaged.

    So Mr and Mrs O. Person move in and the removal man plonks the washing machine in the utility room next to the water supply, drain and socket outlet. The drier is placed next to it (it too needs a drain for the condensate). Naturally both get plugged into the one double socket.

    Of course, the sinner is the sparks who should have installed two single socket outlets, either on their own back-boxes, or on a twin one.

    Or was he (she)? Perhaps originally the drier was situated elsewhere?

    Interesting nuance … do you always design every aspect of your electrical installations for the unexpected in the same way?

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  • 0

    Chris Pearson: 
    I didn't say that, but equally well, not every “overloaded” twin socket will be damaged.

    So Mr and Mrs O. Person move in and the removal man plonks the washing machine in the utility room next to the water supply, drain and socket outlet. The drier is placed next to it (it too needs a drain for the condensate). Naturally both get plugged into the one double socket.

    Of course, the sinner is the sparks who should have installed two single socket outlets, either on their own back-boxes, or on a twin one.

    Or was he (she)? Perhaps originally the drier was situated elsewhere?

    Interesting nuance … do you always design every aspect of your electrical installations for the unexpected in the same way?

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