Consumer Unit Upgrades

FUSE BOX REPLACEMENT

DERBY

UPGRADING FUSE BOXES, BREAKER BOXER AND CONSUMER UNITS ACROSS DERBYSHIRE

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FUSE BOX & CONSUMER UNIT

REPLACING FUSE BOXES IN DERBY

With increasing levels of safety and performance expected in modern homes the transition from traditional fuse boxes to modern consumer units is gaining significant traction. This shift is not merely a trend but represents a critical upgrade to the safety and efficiency of residential and commercial electrical systems.

At Derbyshire Electrical Specialists when we refer to consumer unit upgrades this can be a complete replacement of an old fuse box but also an upgrade to an existing unit. This type of upgrade will typically mean adding additional fuse switches to the existing consumer unit to accommodate either a new circuit required for additional power to an extension or garden power points or a change of use on existing circuits which require a change to the circuit breakers or RCDs.

Whichever upgrade you are after our electrician will be able to sort you out so don't hesitate to get in touch.

  • Derbyshire Electrical Specialists installing a new fuse box in Derby

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FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT

If you want to enjoy your outdoor space more we provide affordable garden power & lighting services across Derby, simply get in touch to arrange a quote!

ELECTRICAL FUSE BOX REPLACEMENT

Historically, many homes in Derby and across the UK were equipped with fuse boxes made to handle lower electrical loads and protect against overcurrent by using fuse wires. These systems, while functional in their time, do not afford adequate protection in today’s more electrified world. Conversely, consumer units are designed to enhance electrical safety and reliability by using circuit breakers, which automatically switch off in the event of a fault, preventing potential hazards such as electrical fires or shocks.

One of the primary advantages of a consumer unit over a fuse box is the enhanced safety features. Many modern consumer units are equipped with Residual Current Devices (RCDs), which provide protection against electrocution and electrical fires by detecting any imbalances in the electrical current flow. If the device senses a potential fault, such as water infiltration or grounding issues, it quickly cuts off the electricity supply, significantly reducing the risk of serious accidents.

Consumer units typically allow for more precise control of individual circuits. This means that if one circuit trips due to an overload, it does not affect the power supply to the entire household. In contrast, an old fuse box might cut off power to all circuits simultaneously, leading to unnecessary inconveniences.

The introduction of trip switches in consumer units has revolutionised circuit protection. Unlike fuse wires that must be replaced after blowing, circuit breakers can be easily reset after they trip, which is not only more convenient but also promotes a proactive approach to electrical safety. We can upgrade existing systems to include modular trip switches tailored to specific circuits, allowing you to have greater control over your electrical usage and minimising potential household electrical interruptions.

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ELECTRIC CONSUMER UNIT REPLACEMENT DERBY

Today's lifestyle demands considerably more from our electrical systems than in previous decades. The proliferation of electronic devices – from smartphones and tablets to high-powered appliances like washing machines and electric vehicles – has increased the overall electrical load in homes. Outdated fuse boxes may struggle to handle this demand, resulting in frequent blown fuses or, worse, increasing the risk of electrical fires.

Consumer units are designed with this increased demand in mind, often featuring more circuits that can be easily added to accommodate new devices without overloading the system. We can propose and install units that allow for future expansion, ensuring that a home can keep pace with technological advancements, or expansion of your property such as extensions or conversions which will require additional electrical power.

While the initial investment in replacing a fuse box with a consumer unit may seem daunting, it can yield long-term cost savings. Upgrading to a consumer unit can lower your insurance premiums, as insurance companies often provide discounts for homes with updated electrical systems that meet current safety standards. However the primary consideration is that electrical issues stemming from outdated systems can lead to costly emergency repairs or even property damage. By making the proactive choice to replace an outdated fuse box, you can mitigate these risks, allowing for peace of mind and financial savings down the line. Simply get in touch with our consumer unit specialists to find out more.

ELECTRICAL FUSE BOX REPLACEMENT

Replacing a fuse box with a consumer unit is not a DIY task but rather one that requires the expertise of a qualified electrician. We start the process with an assessment of the current electrical system, identifying any areas that require immediate attention or upgrades.

During the replacement process, our electrician ensures that the installation complies with the latest regulations outlined in the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). Compliance is crucial, not only for safety but also for meeting legal requirements, particularly if the property is being sold or if you are a landlord.

Our electrician begins by shutting off power of the current system to ensure safety during the installation. He can then remove the old fuse box and start the layout of the new consumer unit. This often includes adding or upgrading trip switches according to the needs of the property, as well as potentially grouping circuits in a way that maximises efficiency and labelling the switches so you know how to isolate sections of your circuits whilst maintaining power in other areas of your home.

Whilst a consumer unit is not a that aesthetic is should at least be mounted in a suitable location, ensuring that it is accessible for both operation and maintenance. Quite often this may be under the stairs or in the garage. If you wish to reposition your new unit let our electrician know before any works starts. Our electrician will then run cables from the existing wiring to the new unit, and each circuit will then be connected to the appropriate trip switch, followed by testing to confirm proper installation. Once done, you should have greater peace of mind that your home is now much safer than it was

MOST COMMON OUTDOOR FUSE BOX QUESTIONS:

  • Can any electrician replace a fuse box?

    This task must be performed by a qualified professional. In the UK, electrical rewiring must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations, which governs electrical safety inside and outside dwellings.

    So only competent electricians should carry out this work.

  • Is there much difference between one brand of consumer unit to another?

    Yes, there can be significant differences between brands of consumer units, affecting their performance, safety features, and overall quality. While all consumer units must comply with UK electrical standards, different brands offer varied levels of build quality, ease of installation, and user-friendly features. Some may incorporate advanced technology such as smart metering capabilities, enhanced surge protection, and modular designs for easier customization. Additionally, the reputation of a brand can influence the reliability and longevity of its products, with some manufacturers prioritising rigorous testing and high-quality materials. We can advise on brand options when discussing your replacement unit

  • Why choose Derbyshire Electrical Specialists to install our garden power and lighting in Derby?

    Our electricians are qualified and exprienced ensuring that safety is the primary consideration, which is key for fuse box upgrades and replacements. 

  • What are the main safety issues associated with outdated fuse boxes?

    The main safety issues associated with outdated fuse boxes stem from their inability to handle modern electrical demands and the risk of electrical fires. Older fuse boxes often use fuses that can blow frequently under the strain of contemporary appliances, leading to frequent interruptions and potential misuse, such as substituting a fuse with a higher amperage to avoid tripping. Additionally, outdated systems may not include necessary safety features, such as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) or arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), which can help prevent electrocutions and fires. Furthermore, deterioration over time can lead to corrosion, which increases risk of arcing and failure. Overall, relying on outdated fuse boxes puts homes and occupants in jeopardy of electrical hazards that could be easily mitigated with a modern circuit breaker system. So don't delay call today to arrange for a modern consumer unit to be installed by our expert electrician.

CONSUMER UNIT INSTALLATION DERBYSHIRE

At Derbyshire Electrical Specialists, we are committed to providing superior fuse box and consumer unit upgrade services in Derby and the surrounding areas of Derbyshire. With our experienced team of electricians we can provide a consumer unit to cope with today's power usage as well as provisioning for tomorrow demands too. We aim to exceed your expectations and create an indoor environment which is practical as well as visually effective. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to assess your outdoor lighting and power requirements.

Derbyshire Electrical Specialists provide garden power & lighting services in:

Ilkeston, Long Eaton, Swadlincote, Heanor, Ripley, Belper, South Normanton, Somercotes, Matlock, Sandiacre, Clay Cross, Ashbourne, Alfreton, Hilton, Breaston

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