Consumer unit upgrades

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Consumer Unit?

Your consumer unit, also commonly known as a fuse box, is the central hub of your home's electrical system. It's responsible for distributing electricity throughout your property and protecting your circuits from overload and faults. However, like any critical component of your home, it can become outdated or insufficient for your needs. Here's how to tell if it's time for an upgrade and what benefits a new consumer unit can bring.

Recognizing the Signs of an Outdated Consumer Unit

Rewirable Fuses: If your consumer unit still relies on rewirable fuses, it’s a sign of obsolescence. These systems are not only less reliable but also slower to react in emergencies compared to modern circuit protection devices. The potential for installing incorrect fuse wire sizes and the difficulty of replacing the wire during emergencies are significant concerns. Additionally, some fuse boards may contain asbestos material to manage the molten metal and high-energy arc when a fuse blows, often using ceramic fuse carriers. It’s advisable to avoid handling these materials unless it’s for a complete unit replacement, as they pose health risks.

BS 1361 Sealed Fuses: Although better than rewirable fuses, BS 1361 sealed fuses can still be problematic if replacements are not immediately available during a fault. This can lead to downtime and potential safety issues.

Common issues and considerations with these fuse boxes are;

• Missing front covers, One of the most common issues is the fronts being missing. These covers are designed to contain molten metal. The holders on some have accessible live screws on top of the fuse carriers. With the cover missing or not installed something could easily become live.

• Some earlier boards used bakelite fronts and open wooden backs. The bakelite is likely to offer good flame retardant properties and the wooden backs may have been hardwood with the fuse held in the front out of the way. The backs of the wooden frames are open and therefore the computability is also based on what it's mounted to.

• These are more dangerous to work on than modern boards, internally there are many exposed parts increasing the chance of electrocution if working on an open live board.

• They may be fitted with retrofit MCB upgrades, all of the breakers will need to be upgraded so that the cover is not required.

• Where fuses are used disconcerting individual are known to replace the fuses with other objects or wrap fuse wire around them. This stops the casing fitting leaving the user the potential to touch live parts and the fuse would likely cause damage and risk fire as the arc will not be correctly handled.

Plastic Enclosures

The switch from plastic to metal enclosures in consumer units significantly reduces the risk of fire propagation and is typically more critical where a plastic consumer unit is the only means of escape such as under the stairs. Steel units offer better quality and durability.

No RCD's, no RCD on lighting or only two RCD's

Modern consumer units include Residual Current Devices (RCDs) for added safety. If your unit lacks RCD protection, it's time for an upgrade

Nuisance tripping 

With only two RCD's protecting all of your circuits a single faulty circuit can affect healthy circuits. Also, the trip setting is set for safety. Multiple RCD's will have a higher tolerance to tripping. Circuits are often configured incorrectly where the correct parts and sizes are not available.

Burning Smell or Scorch Marks Any burning odors or visible scorch marks around your consumer unit are urgent signs of danger. These could point to wiring issues and potential fire hazards.

The Advancements in Consumer Units:

RCDs, RCBOs, and RCCB's

RCDs and RCBOs significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires and shocks by automatically disconnecting the circuit in case of leakage currents. This is especially important in areas with wet environments like kitchens and bathrooms. 

With a traditional CU and single RCD, if a fault occurs on any circuit protected by that RCD, the entire group of circuits will lose power. This can be inconvenient and make it difficult to identify the faulty circuit. RCBOs offer individual protection for each circuit. In case of a fault, only the specific circuit with the issue will trip, leaving the others functioning normally. This makes troubleshooting and isolating the problem much easier.

 SPDs

These devices provide comprehensive protection against electric shock, overcurrent, and power surges, ensuring your home's electrical system is safe and reliable.

AFDDs

Arc Fault Detection Devices are recommended for certain installations to prevent electrical fires by detecting arc faults, which are often precursors to electrical fires.

A Type RCDs

With the rise of DC-powered devices, A type RCDs are crucial. They offer protection against both alternating and pulsating currents with DC components.

The Process of Upgrading

Upgrading your consumer unit involves several steps:

•  Assess your current electrical system to determine the need for an upgrade.

•  Based on your home's requirements, the new consumer unit should meet current regulations and accommodate future electrical needs.

•  Safely install the new unit, ensuring all connections are safe and secure.

•  After installation, you'll receive certification that your new consumer unit meets all safety standards.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Consumer Unit

• Safety - The primary benefit of a new consumer unit is increased safety. Modern units are designed to prevent electrical fires and protect against electric shock.

• Compliance - Upgrading ensures your home's electrical system complies with the latest regulations, avoiding potential legal issues.

• Capacity - New consumer units can handle more circuits, accommodating the growing number of electrical devices in modern homes.

• Resale Value - An updated consumer unit can increase the value of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

If you're experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it's time to consider upgrading your consumer unit. Not only will it enhance the safety and functionality of your home's electrical system, but it will also ensure you're up-to-date with current regulations. Call today to discuss the best options for your home.