How Many Sockets Per Circuit? (AREI Limits)
Maximum 8 points per circuit — but how do you count correctly? Learn the AREI rules for sockets, lighting, and dedicated circuits.
Maximum 8 points per circuit
The AREI specifies in Art. 5.3.5.2b: a maximum of 8 single or multiple socket outlets may be installed per final circuit. An important counting rule applies — a double socket counts as one point, not two.
Counting rules in detail
| Connection | Counts as |
|---|---|
| Single socket | 1 point |
| Double socket | 1 point |
| Triple socket | 1 point |
| Light outlet | 1 point |
| Fixed connection (oven, hob) | Dedicated circuit |
Cable and breaker per circuit type
| Circuit type | Cable | Breaker | Max. points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sockets | XVB 3G2.5 | 16A or 20A | 8 |
| Lighting | XVB 3G1.5 | 10A or 16A | 8 |
| Dedicated (oven) | XVB 3G4 or 3G6 | 20A or 32A | 1 |
Practical example: typical single-family home
A single-family home with 3 bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, and living room typically requires:
- 5–7 socket circuits (living areas, kitchen, bedrooms)
- 3–4 lighting circuits (ground floor, upper floor, outdoor lighting)
- 3–4 dedicated circuits (oven, hob, dishwasher, dryer)
Warning: Kitchens often need dedicated circuits for the dishwasher, oven, and hob. These appliances are hardwired and do not count as regular sockets — each gets its own circuit with heavier cable and an appropriately rated breaker.
Existing installations (AREI Part 8)
For existing installations built before the current AREI, Part 8 allows more than 8 points per circuit under certain conditions — provided the total load remains reasonable and the cable cross-section is adequately sized. However, when renovating or extending, the current limits apply.