Non standard mains plug on washing machine

[Badkin]

Anyone seen a non-standard mains plug like this on a standard domestic washing machine? Why would you do it? Any reason not to replace with a standard 13A plug?

 

[westward10]

That is an Electrak plug it can't have come with that on originally but yes you can put a 13A plug on. Those plugs are also fused like a 13A plug.

 

[Dustydazzler]

Op

Are you saying you purchased the WM from a U.K. retailer with that plug top ?

 

[Badkin]

Thanks. Just puzzled as to why it was used for a domestic application ...

 

[James]

I have seen this plug before, I think it is a foreign plug/socket but cant remember what country it is from.

Edit,
looks like I was beaten to it and I was wrong. sulking now!!

 

[Dustydazzler]

Irish iirc .?

 

[westward10]

They come in different colours red often used for EPOS circuits. There is a plastic key way by the brass pins which has a varied position so a red plug only fits a red socket, a white plug will not fit a red socket. Used to be common on retail installations.

 

[Risteard]

As above red Electrak for EPOS. Electraks also used for UPS.

Still sometimes used for retail here.

 

[Charlie_]

.

 

[StephenRowley]

Aye seen them in retail environments.

I presume their use is intended where the cost of them being accidentally being pulled out could cause problems.

 

[Charlie_]

First time I’ve seen those plugs for 25 years..
Back then we were using them for the likes of dedicated socket outlets

 

[westward10]

The old Electrak underfloor busbars used them also.

 

[GeorgeCooke]

Museum of Plugs and Sockets: Non-standard BS 1363 types - https://www.plugsocketmuseum.nl/British2.html

Nos 17 to 23.

 

[Badkin]

Museum of Plugs and Sockets: Non-standard BS 1363 types - https://www.plugsocketmuseum.nl/British2.html

Nos 17 to 23.

Thanks. Interesting site!

 

[Badkin]

Op

Are you saying you purchased the WM from a U.K. retailer with that plug top ?

Don't know full history, but plumbing in for customer in new house. She used it for years in old house, but never unplugged it so never knew it had non-standard plug. Presumably old house had appropriate socket. Still don't know why!

 

[lozarus]

I've seen Electrak rail used at University accommodation before. Provided something like 2x Electrak-BS1363 adapters in the bedroom. Charged a nominal fee if you wanted more and just plugged them into the rail around the residence. Strange but it's what they did.... I guess this could have been fitted to the washing machine if it was in a very communal area and they didn't want any chance of someone unplugging it and running a very long extension lead back to their flat....