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Electrical

Fitting surface mount pattress to a flush back box

Anonymous user 16/03/2024 - 2.32 PM

Hi, I'm fitting some cabinets in an alcove, and I want to bring some sockets forward so they'll poke through the back of the cabinet (I think this will look neater than having a hole with some wires disappearing through) I was thinking I might be able to fit a surface mount pattress onto the existing back box, does that seem feasible? The current back box is 2-gang so would prefer to stick with that, or I could go to 3-gang if that's going to make it easier to fit the new pattress.

Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?

4 Answers

Anonymous user

I would suggest if you are not a qualified electrician you should hire someone competent to undertake the work. Safety should be priority. Regards

Answered25 July 2020

Internal Repairs

Rating: 5 out of 5

Epsom

If you can take out the screw taps in a surface pattress then you should be able to use these as guides for longer socket screws.

Answered24 July 2020

PWR Electrical Solutions

Rating: 5 out of 5

Gateshead

I agree with the previous answer of getting an electrician in to to do the work, but just to answer your question, yes you can have a surface box fitted. You can buy surface pattresses that are hollow inside and are there just to bring the socket further out the wall. Hope this helps and good luck!

Answered26 July 2020

Current Energy Solutions

Rating: 5 out of 5

Lyme Regis

Firstly, turn off your consumer unit. Buy pvc backboxes, they are easier to drill. Disconnect the socket drill holes in back box and then fix using the Original socket screws, you might have to drill holes in the back box. Only problem you might have is the wires might not be long enough. If not extend using 2.5mm solid wire using 32 amp Wago connectors.

Answered5 January 2024