What domestic households should know when considering replacing a consumer unit?
A Litt • 29 December 2019
Excellent guidance from NAPIT for homeowners on modern consumer units!!There is a lot of reasons why and when fuseboxes/consumer units in domestic premises require replacement. This type of work should be only carried out by registered & competent installers.
Replacing Fuseboxes and Consumer Units in Domestic Premises Fuseboxes, also known as consumer units, are replaced for various reasons.
1.
The most common reason is, as part of a refurbishment whare new circuits are required and when connecting to the existing consumer unit which might not meet the latest electrical regulations.
2.
Where an electrical installation condition report which was previously carried, and one of the recommendations is to replace the consumer unit this could be due to concerns flagged up in respect of the condition and functionality of the consumer unit.
3.
The customer has requested an update and is aware of the life-saving capabilities of modern consumer units.
What does a modern consumer unit have?
From 1st January 2016, it has become compulsory for any consumer units installed or replaced in domestic premises are to be made of fire-rated steel.
The variance of consumer units is considerable what is common to this is all domestic consumer units will have a main switch and miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) as well as residual currents devices (RCDs/ RCBOs).
Modern consumer units in comparison to the older fuse boxes are designed to detect earth faults. It can detect existing circuit faults and can switch off any electrical circuit if a dangerous situation arises.
There are two options available to homeowners:
Option 1:
Is to have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carries out before the consumer unit replacement. It’s not surprising for an existing electrical installation to have underlying faults not picked up by an old fusebox.
Option 2:
Is to replace the consumer unit without conducting an EICR this could maybe based on the need to have power and the immediate concern for safety. The issues are that circuits may be left isolated and an electrical installation certificate cannot be issued until the electrical installation complies with the wiring regulations.
Whats checks should needed when replacing a consumer unit?
The earth bonding to the gas and water services is essential.
The existing distributor's service must be visually sound.
An EICR ideally should be commissioned. Providing a summary of the condition of the electrical installation along with observations classed as being immediately or potentially dangerous or requiring further investigation.
What paperwork would I receive?
Replacing a consumer unit is classed as new work:
Electrical Installation Certificate to be issued.
Building Control Compliance Certificate.
You also need an invoice for the works.
Manufacturers specification sheet.
An Additional 6 Year labour guarantee from 786 Electricals Ltd.
If you require any assistance please do not hesitate to contact us. The best way to do this call or email us.
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