Best place to buy light switches and socket fronts etc

nLdn

Hi,

I'm currently planning to get the first big bit of improvement done in my new place, sorting out electrics and decorating in the main bedroom. As part of it I'm having new sockets put in, at better locations around the room.

Is there a better site to search for switches and sockets on? If I can find something modern looking that would be nice. I'm conscious that I'll eventually need to buy similar for the rest of the flat as I get round to improving more of it.

Any ideal suppliers and/or brands to be looking out for?

thanks,

B

TheCyclingProgrammer

Toolstation or Screwfix are as good as any.

MK Electric make high quality accessories, I'm not sure if they do much decorative stuff.

I've used British General sockets from Toolstation which seem OK too.

Varilight make decorative switches and are a reputable brand.

flashg67

+1 for Screwfix

bellaboo86

Another for screwfix.

EssexExile

If you're gradually working round the flat don't by anything fashionable, it will be out of fashion & unavailable by the time you get to the last one.

casper_g

I've bought switches etc from Screwfix several times, and had no problems.

When I've needed things Screwfix didnt have, I've also bought from a couple of trade-type electrical places. Ive used both CEF (branches nationwide) and TLC Direct (mostly in the south east, but also along the M4 Corridor). Both of these are aimed at the professional market, but neither had much of a problem selling to me. CEF make you fill in a form to register for a "trade account" but i just ticked to say i was a sole trader and filled in my name and address. TLC were perfectly fine when I needed to return something, too

nickcc

Toolstation usually cheaper than Screwfix and free delivery over £10 as opposed to £50 from Screwfix.

nLdn

Thanks all.

I had an electrician round this morning for a quote (booked at short notice so good to get him in there). He's also recommended gil-lec.co.uk and TLC direct.

I think I'll go with screwless sockets if I can find ones I like. Hesaid not to go for the cheap ones of these as the fronts pop off too easily.

USB socket-wise I'm struggling to find ones that are brushed metal, screwless and have a shared output above 2.1 amps. Not been looking long though...

TheCyclingProgrammer

nickcc wrote: »

Toolstation usually cheaper than Screwfix and free delivery over £10 as opposed to £50 from Screwfix.

Though if you live near a Screwfix you can just do a click and collect. Normally very efficient. In the first year after we bought our house I was there so much I was on first name terms with several members of staff.

TheCyclingProgrammer

nLdn wrote: »

USB socket-wise I'm struggling to find ones that are brushed metal, screwless and have a shared output above 2.1 amps. Not been looking long though...

I'm not sure there are many above 2.1 amps, but the ones we have meet the rest of your criteria. They come with a 10mm spacer if your back boxes aren't deep enough.

http://www.toolstation.com/shop/Electrical/d190/USB+Sockets/sd3240/Screwless+Flat+Brushed+Steel+13A+SP+USB+Switch+Socket/p99632

marc81

nLdn wrote: »

Thanks all.

I had an electrician round this morning for a quote (booked at short notice so good to get him in there). He's also recommended gil-lec.co.uk and TLC direct.

I think I'll go with screwless sockets if I can find ones I like. Hesaid not to go for the cheap ones of these as the fronts pop off too easily.

USB socket-wise I'm struggling to find ones that are brushed metal, screwless and have a shared output above 2.1 amps. Not been looking long though...

After a very quick search I found this one which is 3.1A, so they are definitely available...

https://www.electricalcounter.co.uk/products/Switches+%26+Sockets/Nexus+Screwless+Flat-Plate/Screwless+Brushed+Steel/Brushed+Steel+Flat+Plate+2+Gang+Socket+with+Grey+Insert+%26+2+x+USB+3.1A/1093730631