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When might you need consumer unit replacement?
A consumer unit, sometimes still called a fuse box, is where the circuits in the home are protected. Age alone is not a reason to replace it. Replacement is considered when the equipment is damaged, it cannot provide the protection the installation needs, or new circuits cannot be added safely.
Common reasons to request this service
- Damage or overheating Burn marks, a smell of hot plastic, a cracked casing or a cover that does not close are reasons to stop using the affected circuits and have the unit inspected.
- No modern protection Rewireable fuses, or a unit with no RCD protection for the circuits that need it, are commonly assessed when the installation is being changed or has been reported.
What the electrician usually checks
The electrician inspects the existing unit, the supply and the circuits it feeds, then explains whether a repair, a new protective device or a replacement unit is appropriate. Not every older unit has to be replaced on sight.
What affects the cost
- The type of replacement unit
- How many circuits are connected
- The condition of the meter tails and earthing
- Making good and any notification under the building regulations
Safety
Do not remove the cover or replace fuses with anything other than the correct fuse. If there is smoke or fire, leave and call 999.
Questions
Does an old consumer unit have to be replaced?
Not automatically. A qualified electrician assesses its condition and whether the installation needs additional protection or new circuits.
Who can do the work?
Use a person who is competent for consumer-unit work. Many firms are registered with a competent-person scheme so they can notify building-regulations work. Check the register named on their quotation.