Quick response and good workmanship
Thanks
Special thanks, also, to Steve's earnest contribution: not only for his positive and courteous attitude but also the due diligence and care consistently applied in terms of cleaning up after each stage in the whole process. Much admired and greatly appreciated.
Overall, I am very pleased with the entire experience and, as such, would happily recommend TM Hughes and Son to others.
Welcome to TM Hughes & Son Electrical Services Ltd. We install Consumer Units on Canvey Island. Our Electricians are NICEIC registered and fully insured.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation survey and quote for a new Consumer Unit and any other electrical work you may need.
Consumer Units
Consumer Units play an important role in ensuring the safety and performance of electrical systems. In both homes and businesses.
The changes in Consumer Units installations have led to big improvements in safety standards. Especially with the introduction of the latest 18th-edition metal consumer units.
18th Edition Metal Consumer Units
18th edition metal consumer units have become the standard for electrical installations in the UK. These units offer many good things.
Metal consumer units are designed for safety, performance, and ease of use. They feature fireproof, rust-proof metal boxes. Which provides better protection against fire and damage?
The metal casing also adds strength and long life, making sure the consumer unit will last for years.
Also, 18th edition metal consumer units have modern safety features. Such as RCD fuses, which greatly cut the risk of electric shocks and fires.
These units also support adding extra circuits. Allowing for future upgrades without hurting safety.
The 18th edition of the Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) introduced tougher safety rules for consumer units. Stressing the need for fireproof enclosures.
Modern metal consumer units meet these rules. Ensuring installations follow the latest safety standards.
It’s important to have a new Consumer Unit professionally installed by a certified and qualified electrician. This makes sure the installation meets all current safety rules and that the consumer unit works safely and properly.
Disadvantages Of Plastic Consumer Units And Old Fuse Boxes
As the industry moves towards safer and more efficient electrical systems, plastic consumer units and outdated fuse boxes have become obsolete.
Safety Concerns With Plastic Consumer Units
One of the main disadvantages of plastic consumer units is their fire risk. Plastic enclosures can melt or change shape in an electrical fire, which can let the fire spread to nearby materials. In contrast, metal consumer units have better fire resistance. Helping to contain the fire and reduce damage.
Outdated Old Fuse Boxes
Old fuse boxes, often found in older properties, are outdated and don’t meet current safety standards. These fuse boxes also lack the safety features found in modern consumer units. Such as RCD protection, leaving people more at risk of electric shocks.
Also, old fuse boxes often can’t handle the electrical demands of modern appliances and devices.
Why You Should Upgrade To A Modern Consumer Unit
Upgrading to a modern Consumer Unit offers several advantages. Including better safety, meeting the latest safety standards, and room for future upgrades.
Homeowners and businesses in Canvey Island with old Consumer Units or Fuse Boxes are encouraged to upgrade. To ensure the best safety and performance.
RCD Fuses
Residual Current Device (RCD) fuses are a key safety feature of modern consumer units.
RCDs provide an important layer of protection against electrical hazards. They detect uneven power flow and quickly cut the power supply in the event of a fault.
RCD fuses offer several benefits, including:
- Protection against electric shocks: RCD fuses detect and cut power when current imbalances occur. Cutting the risk of electric shocks.
- Prevention of electrical fires: By quickly turning off the power in the event of a fault. RCD fuses help stop electrical fires caused by overheating or short circuits.
- Better safety for electrical equipment: RCD protection keeps appliances and devices safe from damage caused by electrical overload.
Wire Colours Past and Present
Over the years, the colours used in wire for electrical installations have evolved to improve safety and consistency. Wire colours also show how old the electrical system is. When installing a new Consumer Unit, the condition of the wiring is also checked.
Red, Black, and Green Wires
Before 1977, electrical wiring in the UK commonly used red (live), black (neutral), and green (earth) wires. However, these colours are no longer considered safe. They indicate that the electrical system is over 40 years old. It may not meet current safety standards, thereby increasing the risk of electrical hazards to people.
Red, Black, and Green/Yellow Wires
Between 1977 and 2006, wiring installations used Red, Black, and Green/Yellow. If your wires are these colours, an inspection and testing is worthwhile to find out the age and condition of your electrical system.
Brown, Blue, and Green/Yellow Wires
To reduce confusion and improve safety, the UK now uses these wires in in electrical installations:
- Brown (live),
- Blue (neutral),
- Green/yellow (earth) wires
These colours match the Europe-wide colour system to ensure consistency across installations.
Better Safety and Consistency
Using modern wire colours has improved the safety of electrical installations across the UK.
By using a consistent colour system, electricians can quickly spot live, neutral, and earth wires. Reducing the chance of mistakes that could lead to electrical hazards.
When installing a new consumer unit, it is important to make sure that the wiring system also meets current safety rules. A rewire may be suggested for properties with old electrical systems.
One of our electricians will check your wiring system and give advice on what needs to be done to make sure it’s up to standard and safe.
Get A Free Survey & No-Obligation Quote For Your New Consumer Unit
The changes in Consumer Units have led to big improvements in safety and performance.
Choosing a new 18th edition metal consumer unit will ensure you meet today’s safety rules. While cutting the risks from plastic consumer units and old fuse boxes.
Please get in touch with us using the phone number or email below to book your free no-obligation survey and quote for a new Consumer Unit installation.
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: 01268 351560