Q: What is a RCD?
A: RCDS CAN PROTECT AGAINST ELECTRIC SHOCKS, RESIDUAL CURRENTS, AND EARTH FAULTS
Q: What is a RCBO?
A: RCBOS CAN DO WHAT RCDS CAN DO AND PROTECT A CIRCUIT FROM SHORT CIRCUITS AND OVERLOAD. RCBOS ARE ESSENTIALLY A COMBINATION OF MCB AND RCCB
Q: What is an AFDD?
A: AFDDS ARE PROTECTIVE DEVICES INSTALLED IN CONSUMER UNITS TO PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM ARC FAULTS.
Q: What is a SPD?
A: THEY ARE A DEVICE USED TO PROTECT SENSITIVE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT CONNECTED TO THE INSTALLATION, SUCH AS COMPUTERS, TELEVISIONS, WASHING MACHINES AND SAFETY CIRCUITS, SUCH AS FIRE DETECTION SYSTEMS AND EMERGENCY LIGHTING.
Q: Will the power be off during the installation?
A: YES, THE POWER WILL BE OFF FOR AROUND 1- 4 HOURS
Q. WHAT IS RCBO AND RCD, WHICH ONE IS BETTER?
A. RCDS CAN PROTECT AGAINST ELECTRIC SHOCKS, RESIDUAL CURRENTS, AND EARTH FAULTS. ON THE OTHER HAND, RCBOS CAN DO WHAT RCDS CAN DO AND PROTECT A CIRCUIT FROM SHORT CIRCUITS AND OVERLOAD. RCBOS ARE ESSENTIALLY A COMBINATION OF MCB AND RCCB. IN SIMPLE TERMS, A SPLIT RCD WILL TRIP HALF THE CIRCUITS IN THE EVENT OF A FAULT WHERE AN RCBO WILL ONLY TRIP THAT ONE CIRCUIT.
Q: How much does a consumer unit installation cost?
A: Consumer unit installation costs vary from £450 to £950 depending on the number of circuits, unit type, and complexity. Our calculator provides instant estimates.
Q: How long does consumer unit installation take?
A: Standard installation takes 2-4 hours. Complex installations or upgrades may take 4-6 hours. Power will be off during this time.
Q: Do I need to upgrade my consumer unit?
A: You may need to upgrade if your unit is over 20 years old, lacks RCD protection, or doesn't meet current regulations. We can assess your current setup.
Q: What is the difference between MCB and RCBO?
A: MCBs protect against overload and short circuits. RCBOs provide both MCB protection and RCD protection in one device, offering better fault isolation.
Q: Is consumer unit installation covered by insurance?
A: Most home insurance policies cover electrical work by qualified electricians. We're NAPIT registered and fully insured for your peace of mind.
Q: Can I install a consumer unit myself?
A: Consumer unit installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician and requires Building Regulations compliance. DIY installation is not recommended and may be illegal.
Q: What happens if my consumer unit trips frequently?
A: Frequent tripping indicates electrical faults. We can diagnose the issue and recommend solutions, which may include consumer unit replacement or circuit repairs.
Q: Do you provide warranties on consumer unit installations?
A: Yes, we provide a 2-year warranty on all consumer unit installations, covering both materials and workmanship.
Q: What should I do before the installation?
A: Clear the area around your consumer unit, ensure access is available, and plan for power outage. We'll provide specific guidance when booking.
Q: Can you install smart consumer units?
A: Yes, we install modern consumer units with smart features, remote monitoring capabilities, and smart meter compatibility.
Q: What certification do I receive after installation?
A: You'll receive a Building Regulations compliance certificate and electrical installation certificate, both required for insurance and property sales.
Q: How often should consumer units be tested?
A: Consumer units should be tested every 5 years as part of an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) for safety and compliance.
Q: Do you offer emergency consumer unit repairs?
A: Yes, we provide late night emergency electrical services for consumer unit failures, power outages, and electrical safety issues.
Q: What brands of consumer units do you install?
A: We install high-quality consumer units from leading manufacturers including Hager, Schneider Electric, and Wylex, all meeting British Standards.
Q: Can you upgrade from a fuse box to a modern consumer unit?
A: Yes, we specialize in upgrading old fuse boxes to modern consumer units, improving safety and meeting current electrical regulations.
Q: What is the lifespan of a consumer unit?
A: Modern consumer units typically last 20-30 years with proper maintenance. Regular testing and inspection help ensure continued safe operation.
Q: Do you provide free quotes for consumer unit installation?
A: Yes, we provide free, no-obligation quotes. Use our calculator for instant estimates or contact us for detailed assessments.