upgrade-your-fuse-box

Time for an Upgrade: Replacing Your Old Fuse Box
Why a modern consumer unit is a smart move for safety, compliance, and peace of mind

Here’s a perfect example of a setup that's due for an overhaul — overloaded, disorganised, and difficult to manage safely. Situations like this aren't just unsightly — they’re potentially unsafe. Upgrading to a properly installed consumer unit helps bring your electrics up to modern standards while improving reliability and safety throughout your home.

Why Upgrade from a Fuse Box to a Consumer Unit?
Fuse boxes were once standard, but today’s consumer units offer far superior protection and functionality. If your home still relies on an old-style fuse box, it's likely missing key safety features now required under current UK regulations.

Upgrading offers:

✅ Better protection against both overloads and short circuits

✅ RCBO protection – individual safety control for each circuit

✅ Surge protection to guard against spikes from the grid

✅ Simplified reset process – no more changing fuse wire

✅ Clearer circuit labelling for easy fault tracing

✅ Compliance with modern safety standards

✅ Reduced risk of fire caused by outdated components

✅ More room for new circuits as your electrical needs grow

Consumer Units vs. Fuse Boxes: What’s the Difference?
Fuse Box Modern Consumer Unit
Old fuse wire that must be replaced Resettable circuit breakers and RCD/RCBOs
Basic overload protection Full short circuit + overload + earth fault protection
Limited capacity Expandable to suit modern electrical loads
No surge protection Often includes SPD as standard

What Types of Consumer Units Are Available?
We install a range of consumer units to suit all homes and requirements, including:

Dual RCD and RCBO consumer units

High-integrity units with added safety functions

Garage and outbuilding units

Shower or appliance-specific units

Commercial and 3-phase boards

Consumer units with surge protection as standard

What Does It Cost?
Typical replacement costs range from £450–£800, depending on:

Number of circuits and home size

Condition of existing wiring

Type of consumer unit selected

Whether an EICR or remedial works are needed

Labour time and complexity

Any local authority fees (if applicable)

Removal of old asbestos panels (if found)

How Long Does It Take?
For a standard property, expect around one day. This includes:

Full inspection and safety checks

Power isolation and fuse box removal

New consumer unit installation

Full testing and certification

Safety First – Always Use a Registered Electrician
As NICEIC-registered contractors, we ensure all work meets Part P of the Building Regulations and BS 7671 (18th Edition). We’ll issue full certification for your records, including all testing results and updated circuit charts.

📍 Based in Pocklington, East Yorkshire
🔌 Fully insured & NICEIC-registered (D606499)
📞 Ready for a safe and tidy upgrade? Get in touch today.

👉 Visit our website - www.pocklingtonelectrician.co.uk