15amp Plugs & Sockets vs 13amp Power Lines

Is it possible and compliant to regulations to replace 15 amp sockets with those used in the USA or Europe and hence use a USA or European Powerline that does not require a 13 amp fuse I wonder?

Richard

Richard, in the UK, I believe not.  Either way, even if you could the circuit would need to be limited in amps.

In the UK we use 13 amp three square pin sockets. It is possible to use the euro plug in the UK (UK and most of Europe use 220-240V) and meet the UK regs although the polarity of the pins has to be marked as some UK electrical equipment has single pole protection whereas European equipment has dual pole protection. This obviously must be installed and certified by a UK electrician. 

An inherent part of the Powerline’s design is the plug itself so, although you could have them re-terminated with 15amp plugs, you’d negate some of the performance.  Having said that, I also have 15 amp sockets (plus a couple of 13 amps as much to make a comparison as anything else) on my dedicated mains, and whilst I used to use Powerlines and really liked them, I did sample a Chord Sarum mains lead which had been fitted with a 15 amp plug at the factory.  The result was that I ultimately invested in a complete set of Sarum mains leads, now all upgraded to Super ARAY. 

At the level you’re at, kit-wise, you might find it worthwhile to try one or two.

DaveJ

Yes,I'd pondered over both those options.

Reterminate Powerlines with 15amp plugs,or have a mixture of 13 & 15amp sockets.

The 15amp plug to me seems to make sense,no fuse and bigger contact surface.

I may well have to initially have both so that I can make that comparison.

Thanks