Consumer Unit Installation Loughton

Welcome to TM Hughes & Son Electrical Services Ltd. We install Consumer Units in Loughton and the surrounding areas.

We install all types of Consumer Units. Our Electricians are NICEIC registered and fully insured. We provide free, no-obligation surveys and quotes for all Consumer Unit installations.

Consumer Units For Different Types of Properties

When choosing a consumer unit, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your property. The best type of Consumer Unit will depend on the property’s size, the electrical system’s complexity, and any future expansion plans you may have.

During your free survey, our Electrician will assess your property and electrical system and recommend the best type of Consumer Unit for your needs.

Here’s a breakdown of which consumer units are best suited for different types of properties:

Main Switch Consumer Unit – For Smaller Homes or Simple Electrical Systems

A Main Switch Consumer Unit is a cost-effective and practical option for small homes or properties with relatively simple electrical requirements. The Main Switch Consumer Unit provides a straightforward solution with a single on/off switch for the entire system. This type is ideal for homes with fewer electrical circuits and minimal need for separation between the various circuits.

Dual RCD Consumer Unit – Ideal for Mid-Sized Homes

A Dual RCD Consumer Unit is perfect for mid-sized homes requiring more safety and control over their electrical systems. The two residual current devices (RCDs) provide better protection by splitting circuits into two groups. This allows for easier isolation in case of a fault while ensuring the electrical supply to some parts of the home remains on. A Dual RCD Consumer Unit is a good choice for homes with a moderate number of electrical devices and appliances.

High Integrity Consumer Unit – For Larger Homes or High Electrical Demand

For larger homes or properties with high electrical demand, such as those with multiple bathrooms, kitchens, and high-end appliances, an Integrity Consumer Unit is the ideal choice. It offers enhanced circuit separation, which helps in providing more complex electrical setups. This type of consumer unit is designed to accommodate multiple circuits with separate RCDs, ensuring that different home parts are individually protected.

RCD Incomer Consumer Unit – For Smaller Installations or Outbuildings

An RCD Incomer Consumer Unit is well-suited for smaller properties or installations such as garages, sheds, or external electrical systems. Since the unit lacks a main switch, it is typically used in installations where a basic setup is needed. The Incomer Consumer Unit is ideal for outbuildings or areas with limited electrical needs, offering a cost-effective solution without the complexity of larger systems.

Duplex Consumer Unit – For Larger Installations or Complex Circuit Configurations

A Duplex Consumer Unit is an excellent option for large homes with complex electrical setups and properties with multiple circuits that must be separated for safety or regulatory reasons. The Duplex Consumer Unit arranges circuits over two rows, making it perfect for large installations that require better organisation and more circuit separation.

Flush Consumer Unit – For Seamless Installations in Modern Homes

Consumer Units are usually housed in a cupboard or inside a wall-mounted unit. For homeowners concerned with aesthetics and want their electrical systems to blend seamlessly with the interior design of their property, a Flush Consumer Unit is a smart choice. Installed flush with the wall, these units provide a sleek and modern appearance. An excellent option for newly-built homes or those undergoing modernisation where appearance matters.

Garage Consumer Unit – For Garages & Outbuildings

A Garage Consumer Unit is best suited for garages and outbuildings. These compact Consumer Units offer a simple solution without a complex installation, making them a great option where heavy electrical use isn’t required.

When To Consider Installing A New Consumer Unit

Here’s when to consider installing a new Consumer Unit

Age of the Existing Consumer Unit

If your Consumer Unit is over 20-30 years old, it may not meet modern electrical safety standards. Modern Consumer Units have advanced features like RCDs (Residual Current Devices) and RCBOs (Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overload protection), offering better protection than traditional fuses.

Outdated or Lack of RCD Protection

If your current consumer unit doesn’t have RCD protection, it’s a good idea to upgrade. RCDs protect against electrical shock and reduce the risk of electrical fires cutting power instantly in the event of an electrical fault.

Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers

A new Consumer Unit might be required if your circuit breakers regularly trip even when circuits are not overloaded. Inspection and testing by an Electrician will verify this.

Increased Power Demands

If you’ve added more electrical appliances, especially high-demand items like electric showers, ovens, or air conditioning, your existing consumer unit might not handle the increased load. An upgrade will ensure your system can safely cope with the demand.

Signs of Wear or Damage

If your current unit shows signs of wear, rust, or scorch marks or is no longer working properly, it’s time to replace it. These issues can present serious safety hazards.

Electrical Work or Renovations

If you’re undertaking electrical work or a home renovation such as an extension, it might be necessary to upgrade your consumer unit to meet the needs of the new installation.

Contact Us

A free survey undertaken by one of our experienced NICEIC registered Electricians will determine if you need a new Consumer Unit and the best type for your home and Electrical needs. Please contact us using the phone number or email address below to book your free no-obligation survey and quote.