5 Signs You Need a New Consumer Unit

Your consumer unit (also called a fuse board or fuse box) controls and protects all the electrical circuits in your home. An outdated or faulty unit is one of the most common causes of electrical fires — here are five signs it may be time for an upgrade.

1. You still have rewireable fuses

Older consumer units use ceramic rewireable fuses rather than modern MCBs (miniature circuit breakers). These are far less safe — they can overheat and do not trip as quickly or reliably as MCBs.

2. There is no RCD protection

RCDs (residual current devices) protect against electric shock and fire by cutting the power in milliseconds if a fault is detected. Modern consumer units include RCD protection as standard — older ones often do not.

3. The board is over 25 years old

Consumer units have a lifespan. If yours is over 25 years old, it is worth having it assessed — components can degrade and the unit may not meet current regulations.

4. Your EICR has flagged it

If an EICR has returned a C1 or C2 code on your consumer unit, replacement is required. We will advise on the most appropriate unit for your installation.

5. You are adding new circuits

Installing an EV charger, electric shower or new extension often requires additional circuits. If your existing board has no spare ways, a new consumer unit may be needed.

Brad Neil Electrical replaces consumer units across Surrey. All work is NICEIC certified and comes with an Electrical Installation Certificate. Call 07415 834215 for a free quote.

Brad Neil

NICEIC Registered Domestic Installer · Brad Neil Electrical · Surrey