Replacing an existing single oven

[JSwann]

Replacing an existing single oven.


I would like to replace my current single oven.

The oven is currently connected in the following way.

32A MCB in the Legrand fuse box, 6mm2 wire to a 45A DP oven switch above the worktop, feeding a single un-switched outlet below the work top. The oven is currently connected via a 13A plug to the outlet.

The new oven is an AEG BP5304001M rated at 3.5kW. This is a higher rating compared to the existing oven hence the questions below.

My question is can

1. the Legrand 32A MCB fuse be replaced with a 16A version.
   
   
2. The socket be replaced with a fixed cooker point connection.
   

As a side question at what kW value must a 13A socket not be used. I have seen many ovens rated at 2.9kW yet is specifies a 16A outlet on the JL website (example: Neff B44M42N3GB).

I am intending on getting an electrician to carry out the work but this is mainly for my understanding.


Thanks very much.

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

It should be perfectly safe to keep 32A protective device, but if manufacturers instruction recommend 16A or 20A device then best follow those instructions.
Yes you will require to swap socket outlet for a cooker outlet.
It is good practice to reduce the use of socket outlets to appliance with no greater output than 2kW, anything between 2kW-3kw would be best served by a 13A fused connection unit.

I don't really understand why manufacture tend to mention 16A outlets as I have never come across one for domestic purposes. I guess it is a European standard rather than a BS one? They should really state, outlets rated equal to or greater than 16A.

 

[EFLImpudence]

Yes, it is European.

Why would they recommend 16A or 20A device?

However, it depends whether the instructions call for a 16A supply - a European 'norm', or -

a 16A device.

People seem unable to distinguish between the two.

 

[winston1]

It is good practice to reduce the use of socket outlets to appliance with no greater output than 2kW, anything between 2kW-3kw would be best served by a 13A fused connection unit.

Not this again? Kettles, fan heaters, washing machines, dish washers, tumble dryers etc all come with moulded 13 amp plugs which the manufacturers don't require you to chop off. Permanently wiring such devices via an FCU is a pain for servicing as an electrician is required to disconnect them.

To the OP the max load for a 13 amp socket at the UK supplied voltage of 240 v is 3.12kW. 3kW is the approx max normally assumed.

 

[JSwann]

Thanks for all the replies.
I have checked the instruction manual for the AEG BP5304001M oven and there is no specific mention of wiring requirements regarding amps or connection setting.

It is a 3.5kW oven.
Under these circumstances should the 32A MCB fuse remain in place or be reduced to 16A MCB? From your comments it seems it can remain at 32A.

Separate point

On some other ovens it makes the comment on the JL website "Requires 16 amps power setting and cooker point connection". This is not on the instructions. I have even observed this on some 2.9kW ovens......

Thanks

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

Kettles, fan heaters, washing machines, dish washers, tumble dryers etc all come with moulded 13 amp plugs which the manufacturers don't require you to chop off

I am not saying they don't and not all those appliance have a typical output of much over 2kW.
I am saying ideally an appliance would be best served via a 13A FCU than a plug, if rated at 3kW, whether it be a little less convenient for a service engineer is not a concern.

 

[winston1]

I am saying ideally an appliance would be best served via a 13A FCU than a plug, if rated at 3kW, whether it be a little less convenient for a service engineer is not a concern.

Well I don't agree.

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

Well I don't agree.

I think historically there has been more issues with overheating from plugs than FCUs.

But I will not deny you, your right to disagree!

 

[JSwann]

i didn't want to open a debate guys. Sorry. I was just looking for some sound advice before getting in a pro and being given the wrong info. I assume sticking at 32a is correct in the absence of manufacturer instructions to the contrary on a 16a oven?

 

[winston1]

Either will do. Sticking at 32A is easier.

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

There will be no issue using 32A device protecting 6mm T&E cable, on a demand of 15A/16A demand.

 

[davelx]

i didn't want to open a debate guys.

The only way to avoid that on this forum seems to be not to post

 

[bubachuba]

i didn't want to open a debate guys.

The only way to avoid that on this forum seems to be not to post