Outdoor Sockets

Outdoor Sockets
By Haydon the Electrician | Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd.

If you're planning to use electrical equipment in your garden this summer, outdoor sockets are a safe and practical way to supply power without running cables through windows or doors. Whether you’re plugging in a lawnmower, outdoor lights, or even a hot tub, this blog will help you understand how outdoor sockets work, why they’re important, and how to use them safely.

What Are Outdoor Sockets?

A Safe Power Source for the Garden

Outdoor sockets are weatherproof plug sockets. They’re designed to provide safe and reliable access to electricity in your outdoor space. Unlike standard indoor sockets, outdoor sockets have protective casings that keep out water and debris.

Most outdoor sockets are IP66 rated, meaning they’re fully sealed against the elements. This makes them ideal for British weather, where rain and damp are often unavoidable.

Why Use Outdoor Sockets?

Avoiding Trailing Cables

Using extension leads from inside your home can pose a danger They can get wet, create trip hazards, get damaged from being trapped in a door or damage your indoor sockets if they are accidentally pulled out at a funny angle. Outdoor sockets solve this by giving you a power source exactly where you need it — outside.

They’re useful for:

Gardening tools like hedge trimmers and lawnmowers, they're great for water features and outdoor lighting. Fantastic for electric patio heaters or speakers for BBQ's and some may even work with your hot tub.

Are Outdoor Sockets Safe?

Only When Installed Correctly
Outdoor sockets are very safe if installed properly and by a qualified electrician. Your electrician will make sure your RCD protection is in place and up to date. Outdoor sockets without RCD protection are more likely to put you at risk of electric shock.

The socket cover forms a tight seal around the plug to protect it from water and dust, helping maintain both safety and functionality.

Best Practices for Installation

Always Use a Qualified Electrician
All outdoor sockets should be fitted by a qualified electrician. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix if things go wrong. At Watt & Co. Electrical, we always carry out a professional installation to keep you and your property safe.

FAQs – Outdoor Sockets

How much does it cost to install an outdoor socket?
Prices can vary massively, but if your RCD is all up to date then we can usually install them from around the £150 mark.

Do outdoor sockets need to be RCD protected?
Yes. Any socket that can be used to power outdoor equipment must be protected by an RCD. If you have an RCD this may need upgrading to a Type A RCD.

Can I install an outdoor socket myself?
It's not recommended although you can buy outdoor socket kits that plug in to an existing indoor socket which effectively makes it an extension lead.

How long does it take to install an outdoor socket?
Simple installations can be completed in around an hour including a certificate.

FAQs About Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd. and Outdoor Sockets

Do you supply and fit outdoor sockets?
Yes, at Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd., we offer supply and installation of outdoor sockets throughout Bath and West Wiltshire.

Are your electricians qualified to install outdoor sockets?
Absolutely. All installations are carried out by qualified professionals, and we always issue a certification where required.

Final Thoughts
Outdoor sockets are a smart, safe solution for powering your garden tools and outdoor equipment. With the right product and a proper installation, you’ll avoid the risks of trailing leads and enjoy reliable outdoor power all year round.

If you’d like advice or a free quote, get in touch with Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd. We’ll help you choose the right setup and get it installed safely and professionally.

Need outdoor sockets installed?
📞 Contact Haydon at Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd. by filling out the website contact form for expert advice and safe installation in Bath and West Wiltshire.