Switches & sockets

At Technics Electricals & Solar in Kiserian, a Tronic 1-gang switch costs KSh 100 and a 2-gang KSh 150; a Tronic single socket costs KSh 200 and a double socket KSh 300. Powermax 13A sockets cost KSh 220 (single) and KSh 300 (twin), and Carl & Gilbert switched sockets KSh 200 to 300.

Cooker units and water-heater switches cost KSh 450 to 850. Send your list on WhatsApp for a total.

A cooker unit is a 45A double-pole switch, often with a 13A socket, that feeds an electric cooker on its own circuit. You need one for a full-size electric cooker. Technics Electricals & Solar sells the Powermax 45A cooker unit (KSh 650), the Tronic cooker socket (KSh 850) and the Carl & Gilbert cooker switch (KSh 450).

Instant showers and water heaters use a similar 45A switch, such as the Powermax 45A water-heater switch (KSh 500). The cable and breaker must be sized for the load, so leave this to your electrician.

Yes. Technics Electricals & Solar sells the Carl & Gilbert 4-way extension (KSh 1,500), which is listed with surge protection, plus a Windsor multi-plug and a Windsor 50m cord reel with 2.5mm cable (price on request). We also stock Carl & Gilbert 13A fused top plugs at KSh 150.

Don’t run heaters, kettles or irons together on one extension; plug heavy appliances straight into a wall socket.

Fake or poorly made sockets often use thin, low-grade metal contacts and loose terminals, which create resistance and heat when a kettle, iron or heater draws current. Over time the plastic browns, melts or cracks. Choose known brands with firm terminals and clear ratings, such as the 13A Tronic and Powermax sockets at our counter.

Warning signs on an existing socket: a burning smell, a warm faceplate, scorch marks or a loose plug. Switch off at the breaker and call an electrician.