Why upgrade your Fuseboard?
A fuseboard (consumer unit) doesn't always have to be upgraded, but there are many situations where replacing an older unit with a modern consumer unit is the safest and most practical option. Here are the main reasons:
Improved Protection Against Electric Shock
Modern consumer units are fitted with 30mA RCDs (Residual Current Devices) or RCBOs, which disconnect the power within milliseconds if they detect a fault to earth. This significantly reduces the risk of serious electric shock.
Better Fire Protection
New consumer units can include:
- Type A RCDs, which are suitable for modern electrical equipment containing electronic components.
- AFDDs (Arc Fault Detection Devices), which detect dangerous electrical arcing that can lead to fires.
- SPDs (Surge Protection Devices), which protect sensitive appliances from transient overvoltages caused by lightning or switching events.
Compliance with Current Regulations
Older fuseboards often do not comply with the latest edition of BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations). While older installations may not automatically be unsafe, upgrading helps bring the installation closer to current safety standards.
Insurance and Property Sales
Although not always mandatory, some insurers, mortgage lenders, or buyers may recommend or request upgrades where the existing fuseboard is significantly outdated or identified as unsatisfactory during an EICR.