There are signs that you may need a new electrical box, a new consumer unit, a new fuse board, a new fuse box or electric trip switch box. Whichever name you wish to give to it.
Many years ago, these consumer units contained asbestos, fuse wires, fuses or even make shift fuses such as nails, bolts or anything dangerous!!!
The modern types contain RCBO devices (Electric Shock Protection with Overload Protection). These are the most up to date and safe devices available today. We are also seeing some specialist ARC fault devices (AFDD) that can detect arcing and sparking in the electrical installation.
These new devices are a far cry from the piece of wire that used to protect each circuit. This would work by overheating and snapping under pressure with a bang!
The electrical box in the picture above is a fairly modern unit. It could use some upgrading or replacement as it is now beginning to become redundant in the modern home. There are a couple of circuit breakers that are not meant to sit in there. These are manufactured by a different company and as such may be a poor fit within this unit. This can lead to overheating, damage and possible fire. Nothing an electrical inspection by a qualified electrician cannot sort out though. 😊
If your fuse box, consumer unit, electric box looks old, is made of plastic, wood or very old looking metal then its probably best to have it checked out. Remember, just because it seems to work does not make it safe. Hidden electrical dangers can lurk within an installation for years and only become apparent when a secondary fault develops by which time it may be too late.
Before you have a new electrical box installed it is a very good idea for your electrician to carry out an inspection on the wiring in your property. It is all too common for an electrician to turn up and swap your old box for a new one to then discover it will not turn on leaving you with a few problems to sort out. It would have been better to know before hand.
We can advise of the best course of action when it comes to swapping your consumer unit for a new one. We can test, inspect and carry out any necessary repairs. We can advise honestly and impartially if a new consumer unit is right for your home or if there are other issues that need to be addressed. We always try to save our customers money and if we can offer impartial advice without having to attend your property then we will try. 😊
We are Electricians based in Warrington and Liverpool and we cover all areas in between.
If you suspect you need new electrics, new wiring or new fuse board then give us a call or drop us an email info@electricalfaultsfixed.co.uk
