Diy extension lead 2.5mm twin &earth?

[Yam man]

Hi guys I'm needing new extension lead to power light and music centre and have plenty excess 6mm & 2.5mm and 6metres 1.5mm grey twin and earth cable, plugs, sockets and grommets etc. Have basic knowledge of electrics just wanting opinions on using 2.5mm twin and earth cable a new 13 amp plug and fuse and a full metal double socket and back box mounted onto piece of wood for stability the lead will run a straight 5metres along the floor and will supply max 250w. No need for rcd as supply socket is on rcd mcb in cu. But can add 1 if needed? Any opinions?

 

[Cadgey123]

Not usually the standard cable to be used for an extension lead, but it will do the job if you must use it.
Might be a struggle getting the cores into the plug top though.

Go out and buy some proper flex.

 

[Cadgey123]

This cables good for the job.

 

[Octopus]

Dare I suggest you buy a ready made extension lead ?

 

[Risteard]

Not usually the standard cable to be used for an extension lead, but it will do the job if you must use it.
Might be a struggle getting the cores into the plug top though.

It won't do. It's completely the wrong cable and wholly inappropriate for this application. Non-flexible cable isn't suitable for extension leads. Also it cannot be fitted into plugtops. Also plugtops are not designed to accept anything larger than 1.5mm^2. This is non-compliant with BS1363.

 

[Spoon]

Just spend under £8.
http://cpc.farnell.com/pro-elec/8313n-5m/ext-lead-3-gang-ind-switched-5m/dp/PL13081

 

[Deleted member 105166]

Every supermarket sells ready made flexible extension leads for a few pounds. Buy one next time you're out grocery shopping.

 

[Toneyz]

I will come to the point NO and buy an extension lead. Fixed wiring cable is not suitable.

 

[Yam man]

Thanks for all the replies. But why can't this 1.5mm twin and earth be used? as from the socket it will be clipped direct to skirting then the metal back box (secured onto piece of wood) would be screwed direct to the wall just above skirting in the basement the metal faceplate will obviously need earth lead and sheathed. It will never be moved unless being removed all together. Now without all the "buy a lead it's only couple pound"etc remarks can anyone advise me why this is unsafe dangerous etc? Yes I'm bothered saving couple quid and I'm not wasting cash on items that I can make with leftover crap in my lock up. Thanks for any info etc

 

[Spoon]

Thanks for all the replies. But why can't this 1.5mm twin and earth be used? as from the socket it will be clipped direct to skirting then the metal back box (secured onto piece of wood) would be screwed direct to the wall just above skirting in the basement the metal faceplate will obviously need earth lead and sheathed. It will never be moved unless being removed all together. Now without all the "buy a lead it's only couple pound"etc remarks can anyone advise me why this is unsafe dangerous etc? Yes I'm bothered saving couple quid and I'm not wasting cash on items that I can make with leftover crap in my lock up. Thanks for any info etc

Please read post #5

 

[camerabloke]

Windup?

 

[Gavin John Hyde]

Gone from home made extension lead to clipped direct possibly becoming radial or spur from existing circuit?? It might work but isnt kosher under the regs.

 

[Deleted member 105166]

I'm not wasting cash on items that I can make with leftover crap in my lock up.

Send this to your house insurer and ask them to ratify it, in writing, so your cover isn't invalidated in the event of a subsequent fire.

What else do you have in the lockup available for improvisation? Perhaps a length of garden hose and an old watering can nozzle to make a new shower head for the bathroom?

 

[Pete999]

Windup?

Bxll's up

 

[Pete999]

Thanks for all the replies. But why can't this 1.5mm twin and earth be used? as from the socket it will be clipped direct to skirting then the metal back box (secured onto piece of wood) would be screwed direct to the wall just above skirting in the basement the metal faceplate will obviously need earth lead and sheathed. It will never be moved unless being removed all together. Now without all the "buy a lead it's only couple pound"etc remarks can anyone advise me why this is unsafe dangerous etc? Yes I'm bothered saving couple quid and I'm not wasting cash on items that I can make with leftover crap in my lock up. Thanks for any info etc

Flat fixed wiring cable like your 1.5mm2 is NOT DESIGNED TO ACT AS A FLEXIBLE EXTENSION LEAD.