Extension Lead Washing Machine

morganb

Our new washing machine arrived today but unfortunately the cables do not reach the sockets! My Uncle has assured me I can use an extension lead ... what is your opinion? Is it safe to do so???

kwatt

It can be, but it's not ideal and generally not recommended.

K.

Avoriaz

It is safe enough if the extension socket and flex are rated high enough but a better solution is to buy and fit a longer cable.

Cable (flex) is cheap enough and it should be very easy to open up the machine and fit a longer length.

Make the flex long enough so that you can easily withdraw the machine for repair should that ever be needed.

paddy's_mum

As a temporary fix, an extension lead should be okay but don't leave the extension cable wrapped around the drum. It acts like the coil in a transformer and can generate enough heat to cause it to burst into flames.

If you must do it, I suggest that you don't leave the house while the machine is operating, and unplug afterwards. I have experienced a house fire at first, terrifying hand and I can assure you it is an experience I never want to repeat!

morganb

Right you have all convinced me, I am going to get someone in to add an extra socket or to get someone to make a longer cable. Thanks everyone!

ormus

as been said, an extra socket is the best solution. longer cable is next best.
as for the extension lead, always always unroll it first!
ive seen a fire and meltdown caused by an extension reel. and that was just using a hoover! dozy daughter in-law!

morganb

Thanks for all your help so far...

As you can appreciate - we want the washing machine to be safe and to not invalidate the warrenty. Therefore we can not replace the cable inside the machine nor "cut the plug off and join on an extra length of cable using a block joint" as suggested by one electrician.

Anyway, after having spoken to a couple of electricians and the washing machine manufacturers we still have numerous options available :

- replace / lengthen washing machine cable (invalidates warrenty)

- use a bespoke straight 13Kw extension lead that simply spans the gap between washer plug and wall socket (be it fixed to the wall or free standing - located high up away from waste water pipe and water supply.)

- Have a new socket fitted in the kitchen - probably our prefered option but this apparently opens up a new can of worms...

Who on here knows about :

- Part P (where the kitchen is designated a Special Location and therefore needs Local Authority permission/certification etc.)

- "Earthing and Bonding" requirements for a kitchen

Also some idea of costs involved for the above work

many thanks

greyteam1959

Just get a single gang 1 metre ( or however long you need ) trailing socket from Argos or somewhere about £5.
Only thing I would do is keep it off the floor in case of a water leak at some time.
Similar to this.....
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/9827796.htm
Simple cheap safe and effective solution
Why get so flamin' complicated for goodness sake !!!!!

greyteam1959

Sorry posted wrong link should be this one !!!!
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/9827710.htm

morganb

This is why :

http://www.washerhelp.co.uk/misc-2.html#cl_q3

The cheapie cables (i.e. Argos) are not up to spec

morganb

And the reason we've got so 'flamin' complicated', as you've so kindly put it, is because we want to ensure it's SAFE to use. Some extension leads are not.