Oven Installation in the UK – Why a Qualified Electrician Must Check Cable Size and Amps
Why Professional Oven Installation Matters
Installing a new electric oven is not simply a matter of connecting a plug. Many modern ovens
require a dedicated high-current supply, and incorrect installation can lead to overheating,
nuisance tripping or even electrical fire.
A qualified Electrician in London
will assess whether your existing wiring can safely handle the oven’s load before making any connection.
Checking the Cable Size
One of the most important checks during oven installation is verifying the cable size.
Electric ovens often require 6mm² or sometimes 10mm² twin and earth cable, depending on the load.
If the cable is undersized:
- It may overheat under load
- Insulation can degrade
- Fire risk increases significantly
Cable sizing depends on installation method, length of run and protective device rating.
Checking the Amps and Circuit Rating
The oven’s power rating (kW) determines the current draw (amps).
For example, a 7kW oven can draw approximately 30 amps.
The electrician must ensure:
- The circuit breaker rating matches the load
- The cooker control unit is correctly rated
- The isolation switch is properly installed
Overloading a circuit without upgrading protection devices can cause frequent tripping
or dangerous overheating.
Dedicated Cooker Circuit Requirements
Most electric ovens require a dedicated radial cooker circuit from the consumer unit.
This circuit is typically protected by a 32A or 40A breaker, depending on design calculations.
Professional London Electricians
perform load calculations to confirm compliance with BS 7671 regulations.
Common Oven Installation Mistakes
- Connecting high-load ovens to standard 13A sockets
- Ignoring cable size requirements
- Failing to check breaker compatibility
- Loose terminations causing overheating
These mistakes often result in burning smells or tripping issues that require
London Emergency Electricians
to resolve.
When You May Need a Consumer Unit Upgrade
If your consumer unit is outdated or lacks RCBO protection, installing a new oven
may highlight existing limitations.
During property checks or
London Landlord EICR Certificates,
inadequate cooker circuits are commonly identified as requiring improvement.
Final Safety Advice
Oven installation must never be treated as a simple DIY task.
Checking the cable size, verifying the amperage and confirming circuit capacity are essential steps.
Always use a qualified electrician to ensure your installation is safe, compliant and built to last.