Household appliances

Hob and oven: the right cable and protection

An induction hob draws a lot of power, so Ahmed uses XVB cable sized to the appliance: 2.5 mm² up to roughly 7.4 kW, and thicker above that. An induction hob also needs a type A RCD, because induction creates current waveforms that a standard type AC device can't reliably catch. The hob itself is fitted flush into the worktop and either hard-wired or connected via a suitable connection point, with as little cutting and drilling as possible in your kitchen.

• XVB cable with a cross-section matched to the power rating
• Type A RCD for the induction hob
• Hob fitted flush into the worktop
• Oven connected to its own circuit

Washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher

White goods are more straightforward, but the rules are strict. A washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher belong on an earthed socket with an earth pin, the Belgian type E standard. Sockets with side-strip earthing aren't compliant here and get failed at inspection. Each of these appliances gets its own circuit with a 30 mA RCD. Ahmed also sets the appliances side by side or stacked, and hides the wiring away so everything sits neatly.

• Earthed socket with earth pin (type E)
• 30 mA RCD on every circuit
• Appliances set side by side or stacked
• Wiring hidden away, a clean finish

Inspection and VAT

Every new or extended installation must be inspected by an inspection body such as Vinçotte or BTV before it's put into use. That inspection isn't done by the electrician doing the installation, but Ahmed hands the work over inspection-ready. One thing worth knowing about the price up front: the installation work itself, so the wiring, breakers and sockets, falls under 6% VAT if your home is at least 10 years old and the contractor both supplies and fits it. The appliance itself, your hob or washing machine, is always charged at 21% VAT.