You might need a new fuse board if the existing one is around 20-25 years old as outdated boards would fail to meet the UK’s current safety standards. So an older fuse board could be putting your home at risk of fires caused by overheating or overloaded circuits. An older fuseboard will more than likely lack the clever safety features found in modern fuseboard which are called consumer units. Definitive Electrical Solutions are very experienced when it comes to fuseboard upgrades so we’re here to answer some most frequently asked questions.
Back to top1) What signs suggest I need a fuseboard upgrade?
Typical signs to look out for are frequently tripping circuits, dimming lighting or sockets that don’t provide power. We have attended properties where customers have noticed damage to the fuseboard such as cracks and scorch marks which suggest overheating. We were contacted by a homeowner in Elterwater Drive who was experiencing problems with one of the breakers on the fuseboard. During diagnostics, we noticed the switch would immediately trip back once we tried to reset it. Further investigation made clear that the live and neutral wire were making contact, making the circuit short circuit. Our skilled electricians had seen this type of fault before so were confident that the best solution was to consider a fusaboard upgrade.
Back to top2) How long does a fuse board upgrade take?
If it's a straightforward swap which involves removing an old board and replacing it with a modern consumer unit, we need between 4-6 hours so pretty much no time at all. If your home in Nottingham is a larger property with more than 3 bedrooms or electrical wiring at the property needs upgrading too, the upgrades could take anywhere between 6- 8 hours. Once all new installations are carried out, we ensure thorough electrical testing to confirm compliance with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations.
Back to top3) Is a fuseboard upgrade a good investment?
Yes, as you can’t put a price on your household's safety. Definitive Electrical Solutions can’t stress the benefits of a modern consumer unit if one is due. The greatest benefit is the superior level of safety gained as consumer units include RCD protection which immediately switches off power if a fault is detected, protecting individuals from electrocution. MCBs protect the properties electrical wiring from overloads and overheating, causing electrical fires.
A fuseboard upgrade is a must especially to future proof your home to prepare for additional systems like EV charger installation or solar panels.
4) How do I find a trusted fuseboard electrician in Nottingham?
You might find we have been referred to you by friends or family as our happy clients are always happy to recommend us. As NICEIC fully qualified electricians, we have the skills, expertise and knowledge to successfully carry out fuse board upgrades, compliant with industry regulations.
Definitive Electrical Solutions have offices in Nottingham, Mansfield and Chesterfield so we are a local team. We can get to customers in no time at all.
Having carried out numerous fuseboard upgrades across Nottingham, we can quickly determine whether your existing board is safe and compliant. Call us on 0115 647 0093 to arrange an appointment this week!
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