Power sockets are an everyday part of life in the UK, but the voltage supplied by a socket may differ from the standards used in other countries. A standard UK mains supply is 230 volts (V) at 50 hertz (Hz) and uses the familiar Type G plug.

If you're wondering what voltage a UK socket provides, whether a 220V appliance can be used in the UK, or how much power a standard socket can handle, this guide covers the basics of UK mains voltage, plugs and electrical safety.

How Many Volts Is a UK Mains Socket?

A standard domestic mains supply in the UK has a nominal voltage of 230V AC at 50Hz. The actual supply voltage can vary within the permitted range, from approximately 216V to 253V.

You may still see appliances or older information referring to 220V or 240V. Many modern appliances are rated for a range such as 220–240V, which is suitable for normal operation on the UK's nominal 230V supply.

The key specifications are:

The UK uses Type G plugs, which have three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern and an incorporated fuse. Standard UK plugs are commonly fitted with either a 3A or 13A fuse, depending on the appliance.

UK Mains Voltage and Frequency

The UK's nominal mains supply is 230V at 50Hz. Household electricity uses alternating current (AC), while 50Hz means the alternating supply completes 50 cycles per second.

For most household users, the important point is that appliances designed for the UK market are intended to operate with the country's 230V, 50Hz supply. If an appliance has a different voltage or frequency rating, check its rating label before connecting it.

How Many Watts Can a UK 13A Socket Handle?

A 13A rating at the nominal UK voltage corresponds to approximately 2,990W:

Power (W) = Voltage (V) × Current (A)

230V × 13A = 2,990W

This is why 3,000W is commonly used as a rounded figure when discussing the power corresponding to a 13A UK wall socket. Electrical Safety First similarly describes 3,000W as the maximum rating of a wall socket when discussing appliances using a 13A fuse.

However, this does not mean that several high-power appliances should be connected to one socket or extension lead until the combined load reaches 3,000W. The ratings of the plug, socket, extension lead and circuit all need to be considered.

Different appliances can draw very different amounts of power:

These figures are indicative rather than fixed limits. Electrical Safety First lists, for example, washing machines at up to 2,200W, tumble dryers at up to 2,500W, kettles at up to 3,000W, microwaves at around 1,000W and single ovens at around 3,000W. Actual ratings vary by model.

Power rating alone does not determine how an appliance should be connected. Always check the appliance's rating label and installation instructions. The rating label provides the appliance's power or current information and is the best place to check the requirements for a specific model.

For users who need temporary power during a power cut or when a wall socket is unavailable, a portable power station can provide AC power independently of the household supply. For example, the AFERIY P310 Portable Power Station provides up to 3,600W of AC output, making it suitable for a wider range of higher-power appliances and electronics. It is a standalone power source, however, and does not increase the capacity of a home's 13A circuit or change the electrical requirements of an appliance.

Can I Use a 220V Appliance in the UK?

An appliance rated for 220–240V is generally suitable for the UK's nominal 230V supply. Always check the voltage and frequency shown on the appliance's rating label before use.

If an appliance is designed only for a substantially different voltage, such as 110–120V, plugging it directly into a UK socket can damage the appliance and create a safety risk. Electrical Safety First warns that using electrical equipment with a voltage different from its rating can be dangerous.

A travel adaptor does not convert voltage or frequency. It only allows a plug to connect to a different socket type. If an appliance requires voltage conversion, a suitable voltage converter or transformer is required, and its power rating must be sufficient for the appliance being used.

What is the BS 7671 Wiring Regulation?

BS 7671, commonly known as the IET Wiring Regulations, sets requirements for electrical installations in the UK, covering areas such as design, installation, inspection and verification.

The current regulations include BS 7671:2018+A3:2024, which was issued in July 2024. Existing installations that complied with earlier editions do not necessarily need to be upgraded simply because a newer edition has been published.

For homeowners, the practical point is that changes or additions to a home's electrical installation should follow the applicable requirements and be carried out by a suitably competent electrician.

Can I Upgrade a 13A Socket to a 32A Circuit?

A 32A circuit cannot be created simply by replacing a 13A socket.

Higher-power appliances may require a separately designed circuit with suitable protective devices, cabling and connection equipment. The existing consumer unit and electrical installation also need to be suitable for the additional load.

If you need a higher-rated circuit for an appliance such as a cooker, induction hob or electric shower, have the installation assessed and carried out by a qualified electrician.

Are Extension Leads Safe to Use in the UK?

Extension leads can be used safely when they are operated within their rated capacity. The main concern is overloading.

Avoid connecting several high-power appliances to the same extension lead, and never plug one extension lead into another. Electrical Safety First also warns that large appliances such as washing machines can overload an extension lead when used with other large appliances.

Check plugs, sockets and cables regularly for signs of overheating or damage. Warning signs include melted plastic, burn marks, discolouration, buzzing or crackling sounds, blown fuses or repeatedly tripping circuit breakers. If you notice these signs, stop using the equipment and have it checked.

FAQs

Is UK voltage 230V or 240V?

The nominal UK mains voltage is 230V. The permitted supply variation means the actual voltage can be higher or lower than 230V. Older information and some older appliances may still refer to 240V, while many modern appliances are rated for a range such as 220–240V.

What is the voltage of a UK wall outlet?

A standard UK domestic wall outlet supplies 230V AC at 50Hz. UK sockets commonly use Type G plugs with an incorporated fuse.

How many amps is a UK socket?

A standard UK domestic plug and socket system is commonly rated at 13A. At the nominal 230V supply, 13A corresponds to approximately 2,990W. Standard UK plugs are generally fitted with either a 3A or 13A fuse.

Can I use a 220V appliance in the UK?

If the appliance is rated 220–240V, 50Hz, it is generally suitable for the UK's nominal 230V supply. Always check the appliance's rating label before use.

Does a UK plug change the voltage?

No. A plug or travel adaptor changes the physical connection but does not convert voltage or frequency.

Does the UK use AC or DC?

UK household mains electricity uses AC (alternating current) at 50Hz.

How Does UK Voltage Compare With Other Countries?

The UK's nominal 230V supply is similar to that used in many European countries, although plug and socket designs vary.

Voltage alone does not determine whether an appliance can be used safely. Check its rated voltage, frequency and plug requirements before connecting it.

Conclusion

The standard UK mains supply is 230V AC at 50Hz and commonly uses Type G plugs with an incorporated fuse. A 13A rating at 230V corresponds to about 2,990W, but the appropriate load depends on the appliance, plug, socket, extension lead and electrical installation. When using electrical equipment, check its rated voltage, frequency and power requirements rather than relying on voltage alone. For higher-power appliances or changes to a home's electrical installation, make sure the appropriate circuit and installation requirements are assessed by a qualified electrician.