Changing a 16-amp plug socket is easier than you think. All it takes is the right equipment and the correct tools. And what can be better than doing it all yourself? You could save the trouble of having to hire an electrician, and of course, having to dig into your pocket.

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This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of replacing a plug socket, ensuring that you do not terminate your life slightly earlier than planned.

Here are the tools you will need:

• A screwdriver
• Pliers

Here is the equipment you will need:

• A galvanised plug socket box (if the one you have is burnt out or worn)
• A 16-amp wall plug socket
• A cover plate
• Screws (usually supplied with the equipment when bought)

Take note: The above-mentioned tools and equipment is available at any hardware store. Generally, in the case of building a new house, the galvanised box is already installed, with the electrical pipes leading through the ceiling to the main power supply. However, if you are replacing a burnt or worn out plug, perhaps it is best to replace the entire unit.

Step 1: Firstly, to avoid an electric frizzle, turn off the mains power supply and press the earth button on the control panel. Also switch off the wall plug's power supply.

Step 2: Unscrew the front panel, as well as the plug socket, and carefully remove the wiring from the respective sockets.

Step 3: If you are also replacing the galvanised box, remove the old one and gently manoeuvre the new box into the wall. Connect the electrical pipe from which the cables lead, and feed it through one of the ten breakable entry holes provided on the box.

Step 4: You should now have the galvanised box fully installed, with the unconnected colour-coded wires leading from it, usually brown (live), green (earth) and blue (neutral). The wires will most probably be dirty so it would perhaps be best to strip it slightly to ensure good electric conduct. Before doing so, ensure that you can pull more cable out of the pipe if need be. Take each wire, using the pliers and strip it so that approximately 6 or 7mm of copper is exposed.

Step 5: Gently twist each copper end so that it fits tightly together. Now, take a look at the 16-amp plug socket. On the reverse side you will see three holes in which you must connect the wires. Usually, you will see the letter L for live, a symbol similar to that of a television aerial, symbolising earth, and the letter N, for neutral. Take extra care when connecting the colour-coded wires. Incorrect wiring could be very dangerous. Connect the brown wire to the live socket and tighten the screw on the socket so that the wire is fixed. Do the same for the earth and neutral sockets.

Step 6: Attach the plug socket to the galvanised box with the screws provided.

Step 7: Then, attach the cover plate to the plug socket with the screws provided. And there you go.

Step 8: Finally, turn on the mains on the power supply control panel and test the plug, however, not with a finger.

(Matthew Louw, Health24, January 2006)

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