FuseBox Dual Tariff Consumer Units

Fusebox F2014DT 14 Way Dual Tariff Consumer Unit

4 In stock

More available within 1-3 working days

SKU: F2014DT

£53.70

Fusebox F2020MDT 20 Way Dual Tariff Consumer Unit

Delivery usually within 1-3 working days

SKU: F2020MDT

£117.49

Fusebox F2030MDT 30 Way Dual Tariff Consumer Unit

1 In stock

More available within 1-3 working days

SKU: F2030MDT

£155.55

Dual tariff consumer units, also known as dual tariff distribution boards or split load consumer units, are electrical distribution panels commonly used in the UK to manage electricity supply from two different sources or tariffs. These consumer units are designed to separate electrical circuits into two main categories: one that operates on the standard rate tariff (usually the lower cost tariff) and another that operates on an off-peak or economy tariff (usually during nighttime hours when electricity is cheaper). Here are some key points about dual tariff consumer units in UK electrical installations:

Purpose: Dual tariff consumer units are used primarily to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours. They are commonly employed in systems that use Economy 7 or similar time-of-use tariffs.
Economy 7: Economy 7 is a common time-of-use tariff in the UK, offering cheaper electricity during a specified “off-peak” period (usually overnight) and standard rate electricity during the daytime. Dual tariff consumer units are often used in conjunction with Economy 7 meters to ensure that certain electrical loads (e.g., storage heaters, water heaters) are powered during the cheaper nighttime period.
Separate Circuits: Dual tariff consumer units typically have separate circuits for standard rate and off-peak rate loads. The circuits are wired to separate circuit breakers or fuses to control when electricity is supplied to each group of loads.
Components: A typical dual tariff consumer unit includes circuit breakers or fuses for each circuit, a main switch, and a separate time clock or timer switch. The timer switch allows for automatic control of when the off-peak circuit is powered, aligning with the off-peak hours specified by the utility company.
Load Distribution: Loads that benefit from cheaper electricity rates are connected to the off-peak circuit, while other general loads are connected to the standard rate circuit. This allows for cost savings by shifting the use of energy-intensive appliances to the off-peak period.
Installation: Dual tariff consumer units should be installed by qualified electricians to ensure proper wiring and compliance with electrical regulations and safety standards. Careful consideration is given to the selection and sizing of circuit breakers or fuses based on the connected loads.
Programming: The timer switch on the consumer unit must be programmed to align with the utility’s off-peak hours. This programming may need to be adjusted seasonally as the length of nighttime hours varies.
Cost Savings: Dual tariff consumer units, when used in conjunction with appropriate appliances and equipment, can result in cost savings on electricity bills by taking advantage of lower nighttime rates.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance and checks on the timer switch and circuits are essential to ensure that the system continues to operate as intended.

It’s important to note that the specific features and configurations of dual tariff consumer units may vary depending on the manufacturer and the requirements of the installation. Properly selecting, installing, and maintaining these units can help consumers maximize energy savings by using electricity during off-peak hours when rates are lower.