WCED WME14/MS100 WCED 12 Way Main Switch Consumer Unit

Outdated Fuse Boards? Upgrade to Safe Consumer Units Now

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Consumer Units
Consumer Unit
Posted by: electrical4less_mirek Avatarelectrical4less_mirek

Time to Upgrade? Why Old Fuse Boards Are a Hidden Danger

In homes across the UK, many old fuse boards still remain in use, some dating back decades. Although they may seem to work fine, these outdated systems come with serious safety risks. Upgrading to a modern consumer unit isn’t just about following regulations—it’s about keeping your home and family safe.

Live Electrical LSMC18M-SP/11RCBO Live Electrical 15 Way SPD Metal Consumer Unit Kit with 11 RCBOs 1
Live Electrical LSMC18M-SP/11RCBO Live Electrical 15 Way SPD Metal Consumer Unit Kit with 11 RCBOs 1

Why Are Old Fuse Boards Dangerous?

  1. Lack of RCD Protection: Most old fuse boards lack Residual Current Devices (RCDs). These devices detect electrical faults and quickly cut power to prevent shocks or fires. On the other hand, modern consumer units include RCDs and RCBOs, offering superior protection by isolating faults and reducing risks.
  2. Increased Fire Risk: Many older fuse boards, especially those with plastic enclosures, are prone to overheating. This can cause electrical fires, one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK. In 2015, Amendment 3 introduced metal enclosures to reduce the risk of fire, making modern consumer units much safer.
  3. Not Compliant with Current Standards: If your home still has an old fuse board, it likely doesn’t meet the latest 18th Edition wiring regulations. This can cause issues when selling your home or insuring it, as many insurance companies now require compliant electrical systems.
  4. No Surge Protection: Older fuse boards don’t include Surge Protection Devices (SPDs), which leaves your valuable electronics at risk during power surges. In contrast, modern consumer units protect your devices with built-in SPDs, keeping your electronics safe during unexpected surges.
WCED WME22/SP/15RCBO WCED Consumer Unit Kit with SPD and 15 RCBOs 2
WCED WME22/SP/15RCBO WCED Consumer Unit Kit with SPD and 15 RCBOs 2

How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Fuse Board

If your fuse board:

  • Uses fuses instead of circuit breakers,
  • Lacks an RCD,
  • Has a plastic enclosure with sings of overheating,
  • Frequently trips or shows signs of damage,

…it’s likely time to replace it. These are clear signs that your electrical system may be outdated and unsafe.

Benefits of Upgrading to a Modern Consumer Unit

  1. Safety First: A modern consumer unit provides advanced protection against electrical shocks and fires, thanks to RCDs, RCBOs, and metal enclosures.
  2. Regulation Compliance: An upgrade ensures your home complies with 18th Edition standards. This helps you stay protected and ensures your home remains insurable.
  3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home’s electrical system is safe and up-to-date will give you peace of mind. This is especially important in older properties, where electrical faults tend to be more frequent.
  4. Long-Term Savings: A modern unit helps prevent expensive damage to appliances and wiring by reacting faster to faults. Additionally, it protects your devices from power surges, saving you from costly repairs.
FuseBox F2011DA Fusebox F2011DA 11 Way Dual RCD Consumer Unit
FuseBox F2011DA Fusebox F2011DA 11 Way Dual RCD Consumer Unit

Is Your Fuse Board Outdated?

If your home relies on an old fuse board, now is the time to upgrade to a modern consumer unit. Don’t wait for problems to arise—take action now to protect your home and family. Reach out to Electrical4Less for expert advice and find the right consumer unit for your needs.

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