How to Wire a 2G UK Plug Socket with USB Charging

By Home Fashion Label - Extraordinary Products - Buster + Punch | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to safely wire a Buster + Punch 2G UK plug socket with integrated USB charging, including step-by-step installation guidance and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

Wiring a Buster + Punch 2G UK plug socket with USB charging requires isolating the circuit, connecting the live, neutral, and earth wires to the correct terminals, and securing the socket without pinching the USB cable. Always follow UK wiring regulations and use a qualified electrician if unsure.

Understanding the socket construction

The Buster + Punch 2G UK plug socket features a solid metal faceplate and integrated USB chargers, which add a small electronics module behind the socket. This module needs careful handling during wiring to avoid damaging the USB board or pinching wires when pushing the socket into the back box.

Because the socket is deeper than a standard 2G plate, ensure your back box has at least 35mm of depth. Shallow boxes may not accommodate the USB module and cable bend radius, leading to a poor fit or overheating risk.

Tools and materials you will need

You will need a voltage tester, a flathead and crosshead screwdriver, wire strippers, and appropriate gauge cable (typically 2.5mm² for ring circuits or 4mm² for radial circuits). The socket itself uses standard 5A or 20A terminals, so no special connectors are required.

Always use a cable with a correct earth (ground) conductor. The USB module is double-insulated and does not require an earth connection, but the socket outlets themselves must be earthed per UK regulations.

Step-by-step wiring process

Isolate the circuit: Switch off the main breaker for the socket circuit and use a voltage tester to confirm no power is present at the socket location. Remove the existing faceplate or blank plate. Never rely on the wall switch alone; always test for absence of voltage before touching any wires.
Prepare the cables: Strip approximately 10-12mm of insulation from the live (brown), neutral (blue), and earth (green/yellow) wires. Use the correct stripping tool to avoid nicking the copper strands. If the cable is solid-core, gently twist the strands to keep them tidy. Over-stripping can expose too much conductor, increasing the risk of short circuits inside the socket.
Connect the wires to the socket: Identify the terminal markings on the back of the Buster + Punch socket: L for live, N for neutral, and the earth symbol (⏚) for earth. Insert each wire fully into its terminal and tighten the screw firmly. The USB module has its own small connector block; connect the live and neutral wires to the designated USB input terminals (usually marked L-USB and N-USB) following the supplied wiring diagram. Do not overtighten the terminal screws, as this can strip the threads in the brass inserts. A firm nip is sufficient.
Secure the socket into the back box: Gently fold the excess cable and the USB module into the back box, ensuring no wires are pinched between the socket body and the box. Use the supplied screws to fix the socket to the box, tightening evenly to avoid distorting the faceplate. If the USB module does not fit easily, the back box may be too shallow. Do not force it; use a deeper box or a spacer ring.
Test the installation: Restore power at the breaker and test each socket with a plug-in tester to confirm correct polarity and earth continuity. Plug in a USB device to verify the charging ports are working. If the USB ports do not light up, check the USB input connections inside the socket. A socket tester will not detect a reversed polarity on the USB circuit; use a multimeter if you suspect an issue with the USB module wiring.

Product facts

2G UK PLUG SOCKET / USB: A double UK plug socket with integrated USB chargers, made from solid metal and finished to match our toggle switches, dimmers and euro plates. The solid metal construction means the faceplate is heavier than plastic sockets, so you must ensure the back box is securely fixed to the wall to support the weight without sagging.
2G UK PLUG SOCKET / USB