Welcome to TM Hughes & Son Electrical Services Ltd. We install Consumer Units in Braintree.
NICEIC-registered Electricians install Consumer Units. Please get in touch for a free, no-obligation survey and quote.
Consumer Units Explained
A consumer unit (AKA fuse box) is the key component of all electrical systems. It distributes electricity to different circuits and protects against overload, short circuits, and electric shock.
Modern consumer units provide a stable and safe power supply. They contain a main switch, circuit breakers, RCDs, and surge protection.
- The main switch allows you to turn the power off in an emergency
- Circuit breakers cut power when a fault occurs
- RCDs disconnect electricity if an imbalance is detected
- Surge protection stops damage from voltage spikes
Older fuse boxes use rewireable fuses that are slower at cutting power, less effective and less safe. Upgrading to a modern consumer unit improves electrical safety in your home and meets UK safety regulations.
One of our electricians can assess your system and recommend the best Consumer Unit.
Signs You Need A New Consumer Unit
An outdated or faulty Consumer Unit may be a safety liability. Many properties in Braintree still have old fuse boxes that do not meet current safety standards.
Wire fuses in an old fuse box indicate the need for a new consumer unit upgrade, as they provide slower and less reliable protection than modern circuit breakers and RCDs.
Frequent fuse tripping may indicate a dated or faulty consumer unit that cannot handle modern electrical loads or lacks proper circuit protection.
Other warning signs include burning smells, scorch marks, or buzzing sounds from the consumer unit, which may indicate overheating, loose connections, or faulty wiring.
These issues increase the risk of electrical fires and signal that the Consumer Unit is struggling to handle the electrical load safely.
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to further damage, power failures, or serious safety hazards, so a professional inspection and possible upgrade are essential.
If you have a plastic consumer unit, replacing it is a good idea because it is more vulnerable to fire. Since January 2016, UK regulations have required metal-clad Consumer Units for new installations in domestic properties to reduce fire risks and improve safety.
Our Professional Consumer Unit Installation Services
We provide professional consumer unit installation in Braintree, ensuring your electrical system is safe, reliable, and fully compliant with UK regulations. Our qualified electricians assess your current setup, check for compliance, and determine the best consumer unit for your needs.
We offer a range of consumer units to suit different property requirements, ensuring maximum safety and compliance with UK regulations. Choosing the right consumer unit depends on the size of the property, the number of circuits needed, and the level of protection required.
Dual RCD Consumer Units
Dual RCD consumer units are one of the most common choices for modern homes. They feature two residual current devices (RCDs) that split the circuits, ensuring that power remains available on the other circuits if one RCD trips due to a fault. This setup improves safety and reduces the risk of a complete power loss.
High-Integrity Consumer Units
A high-integrity consumer unit combines the benefits of RCD protection with additional circuit breakers that operate independently. This setup is ideal for properties with high-power appliances, such as electric showers, cookers, or EV chargers, as it allows essential circuits to remain operational even if another part of the system experiences a fault.
Main Switch Consumer Units
Main switch consumer units are typically used in homes or businesses where separate RCD protection is installed at the circuit level. These units contain a single main switch to isolate power. Still, individual RCBOs (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent) protect each circuit, offering the highest level of safety and flexibility.
Surge-Protected Consumer Units
With increasing reliance on electrical devices, surge protection has become essential. A surge-protected consumer unit safeguards sensitive electronics from sudden voltage spikes caused by power surges or lightning strikes. This protection helps prevent damage to appliances, computers, and home automation systems.
Commercial & Three-Phase Consumer Units
Larger properties, commercial buildings, and industrial sites often require three-phase consumer units. These units can handle higher electrical loads and distribute power efficiently across multiple circuits, making them suitable for businesses, workshops, and warehouses.
We install all Consumer Units safely, following all wiring regulations and carrying out thorough testing. After installation, we issue a BS 7671 compliance certificate, essential for homeowners, landlords, and businesses.
Benefits Of Upgrading Your Consumer Unit
Upgrading to a modern consumer unit improves both safety and efficiency. Older fuse boxes lack the advanced protection in newer units, increasing the risk of electrical hazards.
Modern consumer units include RCDs and circuit breakers that quickly detect and isolate faults, reducing the chance of electric shocks or fires. They also require less maintenance and minimise downtime.
Many new units come with surge protection, which helps safeguard appliances and electrical devices from sudden voltage spikes. Upgrading ensures your system meets current UK safety standards.
A modern consumer unit also provides greater capacity, making it easier to add new circuits when upgrading your home or installing additional electrical appliances.
Common Questions About Consumer Unit Installation
Many homeowners and businesses in Braintree ask questions about Consumer Unit installation. Below are some common concerns.
How long does installation take?
Most installations take between three and six hours, depending on the electrical system’s complexity.
Do I need to turn off the power during installation?
Yes, the power will need to be switched off for safety. We inform customers in advance so they can plan accordingly.
Will my new consumer unit need maintenance?
Modern consumer units require minimal maintenance but should be inspected every 5-10 years. Landlords must have their electrical system (which includes the Consumer Unit) every 5 years.
Is upgrading a legal requirement?
While not always a legal requirement, upgrading is strongly recommended if your consumer unit is outdated. Properties without a modern Consumer Unit may not meet current electrical safety standards.
Book Your Consumer Unit Installation Today
Upgrading your consumer unit ensures a safe and efficient electrical system. If your unit is outdated or non-compliant, contact us. A professional consumer unit installation provides protection, reliability, and compliance.
To get started, contact us and arrange a free survey. We will assess your electrical system and provide a free, no-obligation quote for a new Consumer Unit.
Hi, I’m Terry, the founder and owner of TM Hughes & Son Electrical Services
Please get in touch to book an appointment or receive a free, no-obligation quote
Call: 01376 230 560