Garage Consumer Unit IP65 4 Way Fuse Box Fitted with RCD 63amp 30ma + 1X6amp, 2X20amp & 1X32amp mcbs

Product Information

In most cases, to add an RCD to an existing consumer unit, it’s much easier to simply replace the entire consumer unit, as space is often an issue. This is obviously a costly job and if it’s not necessary then it’s a cost that can be avoided. However, due to the added protection that they give, it’s a great idea to do it as and when you can. Split Load Board Type of consumer unit: As we discovered in the previous section, there are a wide variety of different types of consumer unit, each priced differently

It is usually populated exclusively with RCBOs as shown in our image, but theoretically could be populated with RCD and MCBs. They can also feature 1 or even 2 RCD’s. The RCD, or residual current device is similar to an MCB in that if it senses an issue it will trip and isolate all the of the MCB’s/fuses below it. More on these below. way circuit using RCBO’s and RCD’s – Image courtesy of the BS7671 18th Edition Wiring Regulations What are RCD’s?

Type of consumer unit

More recently RCBO’s have since come onto the scene. These are essentially a combination of an MCB and RCD so provide additional safety levels. Also they resolve the nuisance tripping issue highlighted in subsequent versions of the Wiring Regulations. The major difference between this type of consumer unit and the below type is that this one does not feature an RCD’s so in terms of it’s relevance today, is now considered a little old-hat! Once the old one is out of the way, the new one is fixed in place. Step 2 – Add Main Double Pole Isolation Switch and RCD Aesthetically pleasing: Hager consumer units are available in a range of finishes, including white, metal, and chrome, to blend in with the decor of the building.

Fire Resistance: The enclosure of the consumer unit should provide adequate fire resistance to contain any potential fire within the unit and prevent it from spreading. Firstly, MCB’s are clipped on to the DIN rail and positioned as required for the number of circuits that are being run from the consumer unit.

Why replace a fuse box with a consumer unit?

High Integrity consumer units are becoming increasingly popular with electricians - becausethey make circuit design easy - and homeowners - because they offer excellent protection without breaking the bank. They are particularly good in projects requiring 12 or more circuits. Once the incoming live is connected using a bus bar for each MCB, the next job is to connect each circuit to it’s relevant MCB.

Most modern fuse boxes contain circuit breakers. It is possible to replace an old-style fuse box with a newer, safer version. The image below is of what’s known as a split load board. This is where it features a main switch for the entire board plus at least 1 RCD labeled as “E”. Before any work is done, firstly it is ensured that power to the entire property is isolated so that the consumer unit can be safely worked on. Duplex consumer unitswhich are alsoknown as double bank are a type of consumer unitin which the circuits are arranged over two rows. Duplex consumer units have seen a rise in popularity in recent years with the growing trend incircuit separation.It is important to note that this does not necessarily mean the unit offers two banks of circuits.The majority duplex of sold are 'Main Switch'consumer units which are populated with RCBOs over two rows and connected using a 100A DIN rail connector. Duplex boardsare also available in'High Integrity' or 'Dual RCD' variants. The modern consumer unit also has a range of other safety features including a main switch that controls the power to the entire unit, that, once switched off, will turn the power off to the entire house.Also you should be aware that some years ago, the standard wire colours used in the UK were changed so that they harmonised with those used in Europe so you may have several different colours of wire in your home. See our wire colours project here for more information.

It’s also important to understand that RCD’s have a test button which creates a simulated earth leak with a resistor, and it is usually recommended that they are tested once a month to ensure they are operating correctly. Size of home: Larger homes have more electrical items and will, therefore, require a higher capacity box or unit which in turn are more expensive One of the most important jobs your electrician will (or should) do before starting such a job is to first ensure they test all of the existing circuits in the property to make sure they function correctly and have no issues. The final stage left is then for your electrician to test every single circuit on the board and ensure it’s safe, wired correctly and has no issues what so ever.Compliant with latest safety standards: Hager consumer units are designed to meet the latest electrical safety standards, such as the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. Allowing for the use of RCBOsand two banks of MCBsthey offer total circuit separation for critical circuits and highly cost effective protection for standard circuits. Consumer Unit with MCB and main double pole isolation switch Step 3 – Connect up Main Switch and RCD A 'Dual RCD Consumer Unit' is supplied with the main switch and two RCDs and offers a cheaper solution. Our image shows a typical installation with the two banks of MCBs protected from earth leakage by the RCDs. Essentially, if an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is carried out on such a setup and it is found that everything is working as it should be then all should be well, as long as there are no outside or zoned circuits that require an RCD.