A kitchen refit compresses appliance circuits, lighting layers, worktop outlets and isolation into a few square metres, and the electrical decisions must be made before the units arrive. Getting the electrician in at design stage is the single biggest improvement you can make to how the refit runs.
Circuits and loads
Ovens, hobs, and sometimes a combination of both, need appropriately sized and protected supplies. Integrated appliances need accessible isolation — a switch behind a fixed unit is no use to the person who has to turn it off.
- Dedicated cooker circuit sized to the appliance specification
- Accessible switched isolation for each integrated appliance
- Worktop socket positions agreed against the final layout
- Extract and lighting circuits planned with the ceiling
Lighting in layers
General ceiling light, task light over worktops, and something softer for evenings. Under-cabinet lighting needs its driver location decided during first fix, and a switch position that makes sense standing at the worktop rather than in the doorway.
Sequencing
First fix before plaster and units, second fix after the units are in and worktops templated. Two visits, both dependent on the kitchen fitter's programme. We will coordinate directly with them if that is easier for you.
Common questions
- When should I book the electrician?
- As soon as the kitchen plan is finalised, before the strip-out.
- Do new kitchen circuits need notifying?
- New circuits are notifiable. We handle notification and certification.
- Can existing circuits be reused?
- Often, subject to testing and whether they suit the new appliance loads.
- Do you work with kitchen fitters?
- Regularly — we will liaise on dates directly if you prefer.
Send the kitchen plan and appliance list and we will tell you exactly what circuits it needs.
Related guides
- Rewiring During a Renovation, How to Sequence ItA renovation is the cheapest time a house will ever be rewired.
- LED Downlights, Spotlights and Retrofit LampsThe right choice depends on whether you are replacing lamps or replacing a ceiling's worth of old transformers.
- Ring and Radial Socket CircuitsBoth designs are valid; the choice affects cable, protection and how faults present.