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Sockets & Lighting4 min read26 March 2025

How to Add More Sockets to Your Home

Running out of sockets is one of the most common electrical frustrations. Here's how additional sockets work, what's involved, and how to do it safely.

With more devices than ever requiring power — phones, tablets, laptops, smart home devices, gaming consoles — the sockets in older UK homes simply weren't designed for modern living. Adding more sockets is one of the most common electrical jobs we carry out.


Your Options for More Sockets


1. Adding Sockets to an Existing Ring Final Circuit


Most UK homes have ring main circuits serving each floor. Adding extra sockets as a spur off this ring is a straightforward job for a qualified electrician. The new socket is connected to the existing ring via a junction or by looping through an existing socket.


Best for: Adding 1–3 sockets in a specific room.


2. Installing a Dedicated New Circuit


For areas with high power demand — a home office, kitchen island, garage workshop — running a dedicated circuit from the consumer unit gives dedicated capacity and is safer for high-load equipment.


Best for: Garages, home offices, kitchen extensions.


3. USB Sockets


Modern sockets with built-in USB-A or USB-C charging ports are a popular upgrade. They can replace standard double sockets and charge phones and tablets without taking up plug space. We can install these wherever you need them.


What Regulations Apply?


Adding sockets in most rooms is notifiable under Part P if a new circuit is installed. Adding spurs to an existing ring main in a standard room is typically a minor works certificate job. In kitchens and bathrooms, all socket work is notifiable.


We handle all certification as part of the job.


How Much Does It Cost?


Adding a single or double socket as a spur off an existing ring main typically costs £80–£150, depending on access and cable run. Installing a new dedicated circuit from the consumer unit will cost more.


Surface-Mounted vs Flush-Mounted


  • Flush (recessed) — cleaner look but requires chasing into the wall and plastering
  • Surface (conduit) — quicker to install with minimal decoration damage, suitable for garage and utility areas

Get a Quote


Onyx Electrical Solutions installs additional sockets across Greater Manchester. Call 07000 000000 for a free, no-obligation quote.

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