Domestic consumer units – also known as fuse boxes, circuit boards, distribution boards or fuse boards – receive the main electrical supply and distribute it to individual circuits throughout the home. Apart from controlling the electrical function of your property, a modern consumer unit should also be capable of detecting and disconnecting a dangerous fault before it causes harm.
Why Should I Replace My Fuse Board and How do I know if my fuse board needs upgrading?
If your fuse box has a wooden back, cast-iron switches, or a mixture of old-style fuses, it likely dates back to before the 1960s and should be replaced for safety reasons. Older boards also lack residual current device (RCD) protection, which is now required for wiring buried in walls, socket circuits, and any outlets that may power outdoor equipment.
In simple terms, any consumer unit without RCD protection is due for an upgrade. However, this doesn’t always mean a full replacement — a qualified and registered electrician should assess your system and advise on the best course of action.
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A new metal consumer unit with an RCBO’s protection for every individual circuit will make your home safer and protect you from the risk of electrical fire and electrocution.
If you think, it is a time to bring your home electrics into shape do not hesitate to contact us.
Why Should I Replace My Fuse Board?
Regulation changes
From 1st July 2016, all new domestic installations are required to comply with BS 7671: Amendment 3 (2015), Regulation 421.1.201.
This regulation states that consumer units and similar switchgear assemblies must comply with BS EN 61439-3 and be:
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Constructed from a non-combustible material, or
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Installed within a non-combustible cabinet or enclosure.
Enclosures made from ferrous metal (such as steel) are accepted as compliant, forming a complete envelope to maintain fire containment and minimise the risk of fire spreading.
The intent behind the change
Fire investigators raised concerns about an increasing number of electrical fires involving plastic consumer unit enclosures. In many cases, poor connections — caused by workmanship or ageing materials — were identified as contributing factors.
The new regulation aims to ensure that if a fire does occur within the consumer unit, it will be contained within a metal enclosure, reducing the risk of flames escaping and spreading to surrounding areas.
The solution
Upgrading an old fuse board to a modern metal consumer unit that meets BS 7671 requirements is a worthwhile investment, particularly for homes with old rewireable fuse boxes.
A new 17th Edition metal consumer unit with RCD protection provides greater peace of mind, improved safety for your family, and compliance with current wiring regulations.
