In this blog I will talk about consumer units, how they work, and the different brands we use.
Hopefully you will stumble across this blog when looking at upgrading your consumer unit in Kent and PBA Electrical & Renewables can help you!

PBA Electrical & Renewables - Consumer Unit Upgrade in Kent

Firstly, consumer units are also known as fuse boards, fuse boxes and distribution boards – call them what you like, they serve the same purpose. For the purpose of this blog I am now going to refer to the Consumer unit as the CU.

A CU is the entry point for electricity into your property. It distributes electricity into various circuits. 18th edition CU’s have built in RCD’s and circuit breakers, these parts all work together to keep your homes electrical system safe and efficient to protect you from electrical shock.

Types of Consumer Unit

There are a few types of CU available to suit your needs:

Main Switch - A simple solution for smaller properties with fewer circuits. This CU is very cost effective for properties not needing a board with space for lots of circuits. The single switch controls all power so expect quick cut off with emergencies.

Dual RCD – Will provide advanced protection by splitting circuits between two RCD’s. This means if you have a fault on your lighting circuit only your lighting will be affected. A dual RCD will prevent total power outages, ideal for medium sized homes.

High integrity – Ideal for commercial and very large properties. Supplied by a main switch and 2 RCD’s. There is also space in here for additional MCB’s and RCBO’s.

RCD – This CU provides an additional safety feature that detaches and issues with the electrical current, will disconnect to avoid shock or a fire. This CU is the go-to for families where electrical safety is paramount.

Consumer Unit Brands we install

Like any trade, you find your niche in products that you like working with. All of the products we install are rigorously tested and we have our reputation with the NICEIC to consider. You can be rest assured that the products we use are of the highest quality!

Below are just the top 2 units we install.

Hager – Not the cheapest CU out there but there is a reason for that. Hager is a very well-established brand and offers a wide range of CU’s easily configurable to client’s needs.

Fusebox – One of the leading UK manufacturers! The most popular board we install during a consumer unit upgrade due to its cost effectiveness and sound safety measures.

Consumer Unit Safety

The UK has strict regulations when it comes to electrical safety. CU’s must comply with the 18th Edition IET wiring regulations. All new CU’s installed in a domestic setting must be of non-combustible material or housed in non-combustible cabinets.

The UK recommendation is to get your CU checked every 10 years; in rented properties this is every 5 years. This test will allow us to rectify any issues you have within your electrical installation ensuring your safety.