DP or SP sockets?

kerri_gt

So I understand in word form the difference between DP and SP sockets but I'm still not sure which ones I should be getting?

We're having some plug sockets moved up the wall and whilst we're at it, I am going to get the electrician to replace the socket fascias with some new slimline ones.

Should I get DP sockets for extra safety or will SP ones suffice as replacements for simple power points?

Risteard

Double pole switched sockets switch BOTH live conductors (i.e. phase/line and neutral). Single pole switched sockets only break the line (phase) conductor.

You don't need double pole switched sockets for safety (indeed you don't even need switched socket outlets - unswitched are also fine). But if a neutral/earth fault is tripping an RCD then switching off at the socket instead of withdrawing the plug will not remove the fault from the circuit without switching all live conductors and therefore the RCD will continue to see it.