How to wire up an element?

[bigdave]

I'm looking to build a new boiler and was thinking of a couple of elements like this:



Years ago I wired up some Argos kettle elements into a boiler but that was pretty simple as most of the wiring was done for me.

Can anyone point me in the direction of how to wire up an element from scratch?

Cheers

[Dave-Leeds]

Just go the same route as b4 and use argos kettles. I got 2 4 quid kettles from work and stripped them down. All the wiring is done for u. Just need to drill holes in fv and fix them in

[bigdave]

Looking at the usual suspects, it seems the days of the cheap corded kettle are over. its all cordless!!

[lord groan]

I've scavenged a couple of used kettle elements bigdave, one was a cordless kettle, once you pull them apart they've still got the same 3 square-pin kettle plug element in 'em. But being cordless you need to find a lead with a plug on to plug them in! Just remember that spare PC lead you've got tucked away might have a plug that fits but the PC ones are only rated to about 5A
This one in fact

Sorry it doesn't show the pins but you can hopefully see it's a standard element fitting

[bigdave]

Looking at my original picture, Am I right in thinking its a case of terminal rings to live & neutral, then sort an earth?

[vacant]

I've scavenged a couple of used kettle elements bigdave, one was a cordless kettle, once you pull them apart they've still got the same 3 square-pin kettle plug element in 'em. But being cordless you need to find a lead with a plug on to plug them in! Just remember that spare PC lead you've got tucked away might have a plug that fits but the PC ones are only rated to about 5A

Some cordless kettles have short pins and are not suitable for kettle lead sockets, though you can solder or crimp them. Other cordless kettles have a hidden element (and probably a central connection on the base), I'm not sure anyone has converted this type.

PC leads are usually rated 10A but may have a 5A fuse. I used one fitted with a 13A fuse without problems for some time. Since a C15 kettle socket with a wire and plug costs as little as a fiver there is no reason to be as complacent as me.

[themadhippy]

Looking at my original picture, Am I right in thinking its a case of terminal rings to live & neutral, then sort an earth

yep,cover the live and neutral in a bit of heat proof sleaving before putting on the crimp eyes just in case.

[bigdave]

Can anyone advise on the best way to deal with an earth wire? Can I simply buy a plastic pattress box with an earth terminal?

[themadhippy]

no,the earth needs attaching to the boiler metalwork,or the body of the element.

[bigdave]

Hmm.... that could be difficult with a plastic boiler?.. Perhaps terminal ring into the neutral or metal pattress?

[bigdave]

Am I being really silly or would this work?..



I've got very little experience with electrics so want to make sure I do it right first time and dont risk killing myself/anyone else.

[themadhippy]

Yep spot on,wot size hole does the element need?if it close to 20mmm you could use a swa earth tag to make the earth connection

[bigdave]

The listing on amazon says it's 16mm but at £10 an element I imagine they'll be cheaply made Chinese units so I'll need to double check when they arrive.