Are you wondering ‘Can I change my own consumer unit?’ Although it may seem like a good idea at the time, it could actually cause you more hassle in the long run. Poorly installed electrics increase the risk of electrical fires starting in a home and can cause damage to your electrical system. Most importantly, they’re simply dangerous to be around. When it comes to installing electrics, it is best to leave it to the professionals. Precision Electrical Services in Walton on Thames are your local and reliable electricians who guarantee a safe consumer unit installation.
Who Can Change a Consumer Unit?
Consumer units, widely known as fuse boxes, are the main component of your electrical system. Its purpose is to distribute electricity safely throughout your building and cut the power at the first sign of electrical fault. Changing a consumer unit is a large and important undertaking. An incorrectly installed consumer unit may not be able to detect if there are hazards present in your electrical system and could end up causing danger and harm to a property and the people in it. When it comes to installing a new consumer unit, you need a qualified professional electrician. Only a Part P competent person - a qualified and registered electrician - can replace a fuse box or consumer unit. This is a legal requirement due to the complexity of the task and the potential dangers. If you would like an inspection of your consumer unit or a consumer unit upgrade, contact us today for more information.
Understanding Consumer Units
To replace a consumer unit you firstly need to understand how they work and why there are so many different types available on the market. A consumer unit is made up from a number of circuit breakers and miniature circuit breakers. Each circuit breaker is designed to trip off and cut the power if a fault or overload is detected. This is what stops the start of fires.
If you have been doing your research you may have seen there are numerous consumer units available on the market. Each consumer unit is designed to meet the needs of a home depending on the house’s size and requirements. A qualified electrician will understand which is appropriate for your Walton-on-Thames home. You may need additional safety features, such as a residual current device (RCD) or Surge Protection Device.
It is also important that your consumer unit is installed in a safe and accessible place to both for your convenience and to meet regulations. It is vital not to block your consumer unit as you will need access if your power ever trips or the mains need to be turned off for electrical work.
Consumer Unit Electrician, Walton-on-Thames
Now we know the answer to ‘Can I change my own consumer unit?’ is "no", and the reasons why. Electrical work should be carried out by a qualified professional who has the knowledge and experience of installing safe electrical equipment. Precision Electrical Services in Walton-on-Thames are your local, fully qualified electricians with over 15 years of experience. We are also NICEIC approved and Part P registered. On completion of your consumer unit upgrade we will hand over the necessary legal documentation of your compliant and safe installation.
Contact our friendly team today to discuss your consumer unit upgrade
