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Consumer Units, Fuse Boxes and Fuse Boards for Your Swindon PropertyConsumer units are a fantastic variety of reliable and affordable circuit protection products. The fuse box array includes RCD protection, surge protection, and overload protection. They are suitable for domestic or light commercial use and are designed to meet the latest wiring regulations.
What is the difference between a Fuse Box and Consumer Unit?
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A fuse box and a consumer unit are basically the same. It is just that the fuse box is now considered an obsolete version of the consumer unit. Both control the current flowing through the house and also monitor the performance of the appliances. They are responsible for the tripping that occurs when faults are reported, which is done for protection purposes.
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Inside the consumer unit
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Different types of consumer units
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The electricity that powers the home has only one source, the consumer unit (also known as the fuse box), which controls and distributes the electricity in the home through multiple circuits. The consumer unit is responsible for supplying power to all the circuits in the house and consists of various parts, such as: the residual current devices (RCDs), the main switch, and the circuit breakers.
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As stated in amendment 3 of the 17th edition of the wiring rules, all new electrical installations and constructions must have a metal-clad load or housing. This prevents overheating of the connections, which in the event of fire must be contained in the consumer unit.
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Plastic consumer units located under wooden stairs are considered an increased fire hazard as they may potentially block the only emergency exit from the house, ventilation for the emergency exit, and may contain flammable objects.
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Plastic consumer units are still very common in British households, as it is not illegal to have one, but they are not considered as safe as metal-clad units. The EIT (Institution of Engineering and Technology) recommends that the installation of the consumer unit be inspected by a certified electrician to ensure that they are safe and do not present a fire hazard. This inspection will also take into account the condition, age, and location of the unit.
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How much does it cost to replace a Consumer Unit?
Consumer unit and materials cost around £30-£260, including installation and testing, which will take about half a day, assuming there are no problems. Thereafter, there is paperwork to complete. The average cost of replacing a fuse box is between £250 and £510, including all labor, testing, materials, and certification.
Prices may vary depending on the power rating of the amplifier. For instance, a small 40 amp unit will only cost around £250-300, while a large 100 amp unit can cost £470-510 or more. A certified electrician will typically charge about £40 to £80 per hour, although the task usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
Prices may vary depending on the power rating of the amplifier. For instance, a small 40 amp unit will only cost around £250-300, while a large 100 amp unit can cost £470-510 or more. A certified electrician will typically charge about £40 to £80 per hour, although the task usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
