Replacement oven - incorrect switch?

[FatAlan]

Ignore some of the patronising responses. I think the general consensus is that replacing like for like is ok with the proviso that their are no underlying issues that have resulted in the damaged switch.

 

[DJ Ovengloves]

..and you would test for underlying issues by visually inspecting and?

I have no problem with anybody doing electrical work, however even a like for like change where you’re releasing / tightening / creating connections need basic testing to be sure that what you have done is safe - anything else is guesswork and can get you or someone else killed.

Dramatic / worst case yes. Scaremongering, I don’t think so. Patronising, no way mate.

Great name btw!

Ignore some of the patronising responses. I think the general consensus is that replacing like for like is ok with the proviso that their are no underlying issues that have resulted in the damaged switch.

 

[FatAlan]

The fact you’re askjng the question means you shouldn’t be changing it!

How many hundreds of thousands have you just spent, but yet you’re trying to save cash on something that could kill?

Patronising. Yes

 

[DJ Ovengloves]

No careful. Hopefully your training will teach that.

Also, lookup th definition of patronising. At worst I was rude based on how stupid I feel the op is being to safe a few quid. I can handle that.

Op - it’s nothing personal mate, but imho if you’re doing anything with electricity (except changing a bulb, plugging in a plug) it needs testing or you are potentially asking for trouble.

 

[FatAlan]

Feeling a bit provocative I’m afraid DJ. I know your posts like a lot of others on here are well meaning but they do I do cringe at some responses when DIYers come on here asking for advice. I also appreciate a little knowledge can sometimes be more dangerous than none but the OP was aware of equipment loads and the need to have appropriately rated switches, cables and fuses to raise the question.

 

[luckyNot]

Thanks all and thanks for the different perspectives and weighting thereof.
After considering what was written here, and the originally referenced 'Interesting wiring' I am seeing around the house (1920s built with 1980s extension), I have decided to get a local sparky in to give me an 'overview' of the house as a whole. From there hopefully I can make some informed decisions on what is within my abilities and what is not.

Risks of testing, or not, by amateurs is a good challenge. I have a B&Q plug thing that tests plug sockets. Other than that I only have multi-meter. Whilst from what I have read and tried on a lighting circuit I can verify connectivity between two points and voltage difference between points I would struggle to verify anything more. Does this mean I should never do DIY? As noted, the consequence of getting it wrong is potentially fatal, but is paying £120 for someone to undo and redo 5 screws just a case of modern 'nanny state' thinking?

In my old house a Pro installed my kitchen circuit and tested one of my RCD. It did trip but did not respond within tolerance. This scared the sh*t out of me, as yet is something I can never test.

It is late and I am rambling.
Good night

 

[Des 56]

If you are unaware of the standard or the safety of your installation,it is worthwhile having a condition report done on the installation,it involves using and being familiar with instruments that are not normally available to the general public

Once you have the whole picture,any like for like changes or minor additions to the wiring can be done by yourself,most people with a little care are quite capable of carrying out simple domestic electrical tasks
As long as care has been taken with the task,this ongoing maintenance should hold no issues

 

[DJ Ovengloves]

It’s meant to be provocative, but not from a sense of superiority but trying to get people to focus on what is important. The op doesn’t have the tools to ensure what he is doing is safe and has effectively put a price on £120 on his life and in regards to the “its only five screws” comment...yes, it is a silly amount (which I would contest btw) to REPLACE the accessory, the trick is testing the change and ensuring it’s safe!

FYI - I am not an electrician - I am a keen DIYer who has 2394 and 2395 (amongst others) and a calibrated tester I know how to use, but the best things I’ve learnt is not to simply trust your confidence (I.e “it’s only a couple of screws etc), test EVERYTHING and most importantly, know your limitations!

All the best Alan in your training and I hope you keep safe op!

 

[FatAlan]

It’s meant to be provocative, but not from a sense of superiority but trying to get people to focus on what is important. The op doesn’t have the tools to ensure what he is doing is safe and has effectively put a price on £120 on his life and in regards to the “its only five screws” comment...yes, it is a silly amount (which I would contest btw) to REPLACE the accessory, the trick is testing the change and ensuring it’s safe!

FYI - I am not an electrician - I am a keen DIYer who has 2394 and 2395 (amongst others) and a calibrated tester I know how to use, but the best things I’ve learnt is not to simply trust your confidence (I.e “it’s only a couple of screws etc), test EVERYTHING and most importantly, know your limitations!

All the best Alan in your training and I hope you keep safe op!

Hi DJ. I meant I was being provocative. FYI I’m a 50+ grumpy old fart in a different profession having completed 2494/5 like you plus the other domestic type C&G courses etc. These SM forums like emails and texts are easy to take out of context.

 

[FatAlan]

PS. Not saying that you are a 50+ grumpy old fart!