Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to the Wires Direct FAQ section. Here you'll find answers to common questions about electrical cable, delivery, returns, product selection and ordering. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, our team is always happy to help.

Ordering & Products

What products does Wires Direct sell?

Wires Direct supplies a wide range of electrical cables and accessories for both trade professionals and DIY customers, including:

• Twin & Earth Cable

• SWA (Steel Wire Armoured) Cable

• Flexible Cable

• EV Charging Cable

• SY Control Cable

• CY Control Cable

• Data & Network Cable

• Cable Clips & Accessories

• Conduit & Trunking Products

Can I buy cable by the metre?

Yes. Many of our cable products are available in custom cut lengths, allowing you to order only what you need for your project.

Do you sell full cable drums?

Yes. We offer both cut lengths and full drums on many of our most popular cable ranges.

Are your cables genuine UK specification products?

Yes. We source quality products from reputable manufacturers that comply with relevant UK and European standards where applicable.

How do I choose the correct cable size?

Cable selection depends on several factors including:

• Current load

• Cable length

• Installation method

• Environmental conditions

• Voltage drop requirements

If you're unsure, we recommend consulting a qualified electrician before purchasing.

What is Twin & Earth cable used for?

Twin & Earth cable is commonly used for:

• Socket circuits

• Lighting circuits

• Cooker circuits

• Shower circuits

• General domestic wiring

It is the standard cable used in most UK residential electrical installations.

What is SWA cable used for?

Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable is designed for outdoor and underground installations where additional mechanical protection is required.

Common uses include:

• Garden buildings

• Garages

• Workshops

• Commercial installations

• Power supplies to outbuildings

Delivery Questions

How quickly will my order be dispatched?

Most orders are processed and dispatched as quickly as possible. Delivery times may vary depending on stock availability and your chosen delivery option.

Do you deliver throughout the UK?

Yes. We deliver across mainland UK and can arrange delivery to many additional locations.

Can I track my order?

Yes. Tracking information will be provided whenever available through the courier service used for your shipment.

Do you offer next-day delivery?

Many products are available with next working day delivery. Availability may depend on product type, stock levels and order cut-off times.

Can I collect my order?

Please contact us before ordering if you wish to discuss collection options.

Trade Customer FAQs

Do you offer trade accounts?

Yes. We welcome enquiries from electricians, contractors, developers, facilities management companies and other trade customers.

Can I place large volume orders?

Absolutely. We regularly supply larger projects and can often provide competitive pricing for bulk purchases.

Do you provide quotations?

Yes. If you require a quotation for a project or large order, please contact our sales team.

Do you supply commercial and industrial customers?

Yes. We supply customers ranging from individual electricians through to commercial and industrial organisations.

Technical Questions

Can electrical cable be installed outdoors?

Some cable types are suitable for outdoor use, while others require additional protection.

For example:

• SWA Cable – Suitable for outdoor use

• Standard Twin & Earth – Intended primarily for indoor use

• Flexible Cable – Application dependent

Always check product specifications before installation.

What does the earth conductor do?

The earth conductor provides a safety path for fault currents, helping protective devices operate correctly and reducing the risk of electric shock.

Can I install electrical cable myself?

Some minor electrical work may be carried out by competent DIY users. However, electrical work must comply with UK regulations and may require inspection, testing or certification.

When in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

Do your cables comply with UK standards?

Our products are sourced from reputable manufacturers and are designed to meet relevant standards and specifications where applicable.

Refer to individual product descriptions for specific compliance information.

Returns & Refunds

Can I return unwanted items?

Yes. Unused items may be eligible for return in accordance with our Returns Policy.

Please contact us before returning any products.

Can cut cable lengths be returned?

Because cut cable lengths are custom-made to your requirements, they may not be eligible for return unless faulty or supplied incorrectly.

What should I do if my order arrives damaged?

Please contact us as soon as possible and provide photographs of any damage so we can resolve the issue quickly.

What if I receive the wrong item?

If you receive an incorrect product, please contact our customer service team and we will arrange a resolution.

General Questions

Why choose Wires Direct?

✔ Competitive pricing

✔ Fast UK delivery

✔ Trade & DIY friendly

✔ Quality electrical products

✔ Expert customer support

✔ Wide range of cable sizes and types

How can I contact Wires Direct?

If you need assistance selecting products, placing an order or discussing a project, our friendly team is ready to help.

Contact us via our website, email or telephone and we'll be happy to assist.

Still Have Questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Contact the Wires Direct team and we'll help you find the right cable, accessory or electrical solution for your project. Our knowledgeable team is here to support both trade professionals and DIY customers across the UK.