Socket & Switch
Installation in Crawley
More Power Where You Need It

Stop relying on extension leads and adaptors. Additional sockets, USB charging points, and properly placed switches make your home safer, tidier, and more functional — usually in under a day.

Same-day service available for most socket and switch installations across Crawley

Socket & Switch Services Explained

Socket and switch installation covers a wide range of work — from adding a single double socket in a home office to replacing every outlet and switch in a property renovation. It also includes repairing faulty sockets, upgrading to USB-equipped outlets, installing dimmer switches, and relocating switches to more convenient positions.

Modern homes have far more electrical demands than properties built even 20 years ago. Home offices, multiple phone and tablet chargers, smart speakers, kitchen appliances, and entertainment systems all need dedicated outlets. Running multiple devices from a single socket via extension leads is not just inconvenient — it is a fire risk.

We install sockets and switches from leading UK manufacturers including MK, BG, Schneider, and Hamilton. Whether you want clean white plastic, brushed steel, or matt black finishes, we source accessories that match your interior design.

Lambourn Electrical Services carries out socket and switch installations across Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, Reigate, and the wider Surrey and Sussex area. Most single-socket additions can be completed in 1–2 hours.

The Hidden Risks of Overloaded Sockets

Every socket outlet has a maximum rated load — typically 13 amps (3,120W). Plugging a multi-way extension into a double socket and loading it with a heater, a monitor, a computer, and a phone charger can exceed that rating. The socket, plug, and wiring behind the wall generate heat. Over time, this degrades connections and can cause arcing.

Extension leads create trip hazards, clutter, and additional points of failure. Every plug-to-socket connection is a potential source of heat if the contact is loose. The more connections in a chain, the higher the cumulative risk.

Damaged sockets — cracked faceplates, loose terminals, discoloured plastic, or sockets that feel warm to the touch — are warning signs that should not be ignored. A warm socket indicates a high-resistance connection that is generating heat. Left unrepaired, this can melt the faceplate and ignite surrounding materials.

In kitchens and bathrooms, incorrectly positioned sockets create compliance and safety issues. Sockets within 300mm of a sink or hob are non-compliant. Sockets in bathroom zones must meet specific IP rating and RCD protection requirements under BS 7671.

Socket & Switch Types, Specifications & Applications

Standard double sockets are rated at 13A and are suitable for most domestic appliances. For home offices, we recommend installing at least 4 double sockets to accommodate computers, monitors, printers, routers, and phone chargers without needing extension leads.

USB sockets combine a standard 13A socket with integrated USB charging ports. Current models offer USB-A (standard) and USB-C (fast charging) combinations. The USB ports are powered independently, so they work even when nothing is plugged into the main socket.

Fused connection units (FCUs) are used for permanently connected appliances such as extractor fans, heated towel rails, boilers, and under-cabinet lighting. An FCU provides a fixed connection with a fuse sized to the specific appliance, eliminating the need for a plug.

Outdoor sockets must be IP66 rated and protected by a 30mA RCD. We install weatherproof sockets for garden equipment, pressure washers, hot tubs, and EV charging (temporary). All outdoor installations use appropriate cable types and are correctly earthed.

Dimmer switches for LED lighting require trailing-edge dimmer modules designed for low-wattage LED loads. Standard leading-edge dimmers (designed for halogen) cause LEDs to flicker, buzz, or fail to dim properly. We specify and install the correct dimmer type for your specific LED bulbs.

Smart switches (such as those from Lightwave, Hive, or TP-Link) replace standard switches with Wi-Fi or Zigbee-enabled modules. These allow app control, voice control (Alexa, Google Home), scheduling, and scene setting. They require a neutral wire at the switch position, which older properties may not have.

In commercial properties, we install metalclad sockets and switches rated for heavier use. Industrial applications may require 16A or 32A outlets (commando/CEE sockets) for machinery, catering equipment, or temporary power supplies.

Frequently Asked Questions