Kitchen electrics: appliances, circuits and sockets

Socket count does not reveal available electrical capacity. Adding an outlet does not automatically create another circuit. Have the electrical design assessed before cabinetry, worktops or tiling are finalised.

Record model numbers

“An oven and hob” is insufficient for a connection plan. List each exact model, electrical input power, connection type and installation manual. Include refrigeration, dishwasher, extraction, a kitchen water heater and other fixed appliances. Add worktop equipment such as the kettle, coffee machine and microwave.

Say which appliances you expect to use together. Record electrical input power, not microwave cooking output or annual energy consumption. Kilowatt-hours per year describe something different from a wattage rating.

For example, a 2,200 W kettle, 2,000 W dishwasher and microwave with 1,400 W electrical input total 5,600 W. These are illustrative values; use the actual models' data. The load inventory does not approve a circuit or choose how many circuits you need.

The electrician considers the existing installation, routes, protection and intended use. A hob also has model-specific connection configurations. Milieu Centraal explains induction connection considerations.

Map access as well as position

Mark fixed appliances, work surfaces and portable-equipment positions on the plan. Identify connections that must remain accessible for maintenance or replacement. Ask the kitchen supplier to check cupboard dimensions, drawers, rear panels and ventilation. The electrician assesses proximity to water and heat and the relevant installation requirements.

A socket behind a drawer may look acceptable in a front elevation while being inaccessible in the finished kitchen. Plan the space behind and beneath appliances too.

For preparation, have a dimensioned drawing, tape measure, appliance schedule and manuals. Mark existing points without removing faceplates. Record what you know about the consumer unit and leave missing information unknown.

Buy sockets, boxes, cabling, cooking connection parts and protection only to the agreed specification. Matching a decorative range does not establish technical compatibility. Agree whether CAS, the kitchen company or you supply each item, including responsibility for omissions.

Agree the sequence

The work plan should address survey, design, any cable changes, checks before finishes, kitchen fitting, connection and handover. Changing an appliance model can change its connection requirements. Tell the parties involved before wiring is concealed.

Does every appliance require its own circuit?

That is not a reliable universal rule. The design depends on the appliances, manufacturer requirements and existing installation.

Can a power strip go behind the units?

Do not substitute a power strip for planned fixed connections without assessment. Heat, load, access and appliance requirements all matter.

Can CAS undertake only part of the project?

Describe the scope you want. Supply, work and verification responsibilities need agreement before work starts.

Discuss the kitchen plan with CAS. Include your appliance list and intended sequence in the enquiry; arrangements for sharing documents can follow after first contact.