If you’re a homeowner or business owner, you may wonder how professional electricians install a new consumer unit. After all, the consumer unit is one of the most critical components of any electrical system, responsible for safely distributing electricity throughout your property. In this article, we’ll look at what a consumer unit is, why you might need a new one installed, and how professional electricians perform this vital task.
What is a consumer unit?
A consumer unit is a box that contains fuses, switches, and other components that regulate the flow of electricity in your home or business. It is sometimes referred to as a fuse box or a distribution board. Consumer units are usually located in an easily accessible location, such as a cupboard or garage. They are designed to be the first point of contact for the electricity entering your property and to protect against electrical fires and other hazards.
Why might you need a new consumer unit installed?
You might need a new consumer unit installed for a few reasons. The most common cause is if your current unit needs to be updated or has become damaged. Older units may be unable to handle modern appliances and electronic demands, leading to electrical issues and even fires. Additionally, suppose you are renovating your home or business or adding new electrical circuits. In that case, you may need to employ the electrical services of a professional to upgrade your consumer unit to accommodate the increased demand.
How do professional electricians perform a new consumer unit installation?
Installing a new consumer unit is not a task that a DIY enthusiast should undertake. Instead, hiring an electrical services team with the knowledge and expertise to perform the installation safely and effectively is essential. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how a professional electrician would perform an electrical installation for a new consumer unit:
Turn off the power!
Before starting any electrical installation, the electrician will turn off the power to the property at the mains.
Remove the old consumer unit
The electrician will then remove the old consumer unit, disconnect the wiring, and remove any fuses, switches, or other components.
Install the new consumer unit
The electrician will then install the new consumer unit, securing it and connecting the wiring. They will also test the unit to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
Label the circuits
Once the new consumer unit is in place, the electrician will label the circuits to make it easy to identify which circuit controls which part of the property.
Turn the power back on
Finally, the electrician will turn the power back on at the mains and test the new consumer unit to ensure it functions as it should.
A job for the professionals
A new consumer unit installation is an important task a professional electrician should always perform. By following strict steps, including turning off the power, removing the old unit, installing the new unit, labelling the circuits, and testing the system, professional electricians ensure your property’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and up to date. Contact our team for a free quote if you require an electrical installation at your home or business.
