Electrical Issue - Can you change the socket part of an extension lead ?

[Stoatman]

Hi Guys,

Did not really know where to ask this but I know there is loads of "electrically" types on here, so looking for a little bit of advice.

I have an extension lead running to one of my shed type things and the cable is tacked to the outside wall and routed neatly. At the time we only needed 2 sockets so got a cheapish one - they are not switched too- A bit like this :
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/9829608/Trail/searchtext>2+SOCKET.htm

HOwever I am now wanting a switched one and a few more plugs. So my question is , can I take off the 2 socket one leaving the cable in place and replace with something like this

Buy Masterplug 6 Socket Individually Switched Extension Lead. at Argos.co.uk

Thanks for any help

[eviljohn2]

As long as you're competent to rewire the plug then it will be fine. Obviously make sure that get a rewireable version of the socket you need - maybe from CPC or Homebase or B&Q or whoever your usual supplier is.

I assume you have adequate RCD/MCB protection where necessary and havn't just run a spur outside from a normal domestic plug?

[Stoatman]

Well i always use an RCD adaptor in the plug ?. The "outbuilding" is basically our old outside toiet and is attached to the house so is not far away. Basically I just ran a "normal" extension lead from plug in the house to where our drier is.

[eviljohn2]

Sounds fine then. As I said, be sure that you're confident that you can wire the block properly and take as many precautions as you possibly can to ensure that the end in your house cannot end up in the wall as it will be out of your sight when you're swapping the other end over.

[Stoatman]

Thanks, to be honest I never realised there were "rewireable" extension sockets until you said. I have googled a few..

Cheers