Very Impressed with the professional service. Explained clearly the process and any problems encountered.
Why Upgrading Your Consumer Unit is Essential – Even if It’s Been Fine for 20 Years
Why Change your fuse box?
Many Devon homeowners think, “My fuse box has been working fine for years—why upgrade?” While it may seem like there’s no urgent need, electrical safety standards have changed significantly over the last two decades. Your home’s electrical system may appear to function properly, but that doesn’t mean it’s as safe or efficient as it should be.
Will a consumer unit upgrade save me money like a new boiler?
Yes is the simple answer, no it’s not going to reduce your electricity bill but what it will do is save you money when you have anything new done within your property, why you ask because when that electrician checks your fuse board (consumer unit) they will go perfect we don’t need to do anything with that we can change your light, socket or add a new supply for your new oven or hob or if your fed up of shower that’s not very powerful and you want to upgrade, having that new consumer unit will pay for its self.
What’s Changed in the Last 20 Years?
- What hasn’t changed? But honestly if you really think about it, we use a lot more electricity in our day-to-day life, 100% more then we did 10, 20 and 30 years ago.
- 18th Edition Regulations – The latest electrical regulations set stricter safety standards. If your consumer unit is outdated, it may not comply with modern requirements.
- RCD Protection is Now Essential – Modern Residual Current Devices (RCDs) cut power instantly if they detect a fault, protecting against electric shocks and reducing fire risks. Older units often lack this vital feature.
- Increased Electrical Demand – Homes today use more power than ever. With more appliances, EV chargers, and smart devices, an old fuse box may struggle to handle the load safely.
- Fire Safety Improvements – The latest consumer units are made from non-combustible materials, they are now metal reducing the risk of electrical fires compared to older plastic units.
Hidden Risks of Old Consumer Units
Even if an old fuse box hasn’t caused problems, there could be underlying faults that go unnoticed until it’s too late. Signs you may need an upgrade include:
- Flickering lights, tripping circuits, or overheating sockets.
- An outdated fuse box with no RCD protection.
- A consumer unit with a wooden or plastic enclosure.
Can You Add New Sockets or Lights to an Old Fuse Board?
If you’re planning on adding a new socket, light, or any electrical circuit, your existing consumer unit might not support it. Regulations require new circuits to comply with modern safety standards, including RCD protection, which older fuse boards often lack. This means that before any new electrical work can be carried out, you may need to upgrade your consumer unit to meet current regulations.
The Benefits of Upgrading to a Modern Consumer Unit
- Improved Safety – Protects against electrocution and fire hazards.
- Future-Proofing – Ensures your electrical system can handle modern power demands.
- Compliance with Regulations – Particularly important for landlords and homebuyers.
- Flexibility for Future Work – Allows for new sockets, lighting, or additional circuits without restrictions.
- Peace of Mind – A fully tested; certified system gives you confidence in your home’s safety.
Consumer Unit Upgrades by A.M Electrics Devon Ltd
At A.M Electrics Devon Ltd, we fit the most up-to-date consumer units, ensuring your home meets the highest safety standards. Our service includes full testing, certification, and expert advice tailored to your property’s needs.
If your consumer unit is outdated, do not wait for a problem to arise, - contact us today for a free consultation.
