Do I Need a Consumer Unit (Fuse Board) Upgrade?
A consumer unit — often known as a fuse board — is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It protects you from electric shocks, dangerous faults, and potential fire risks. But like everything else, consumer units age, become outdated, and eventually need replacing.
For many Sittingbourne homeowners, it’s not always obvious when a fuse board upgrade is required. This guide explains the most common signs, safety concerns, and why a modern consumer unit is important for your home.
What Does a Consumer Unit Actually Do?
Your consumer unit controls and protects the flow of electricity around your home. It shuts off power to a circuit when it detects:
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- Overload
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- Short circuits
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- Earth faults
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- Dangerous wiring issues
Modern units use RCDs and RCBOs, which offer life-saving protection by cutting off electricity in under a second during a fault.
If your fuse board doesn’t have these features, it may not meet current safety standards.
Signs You Might Need a Consumer Unit Upgrade
1. You Have an Old-Style Fuse Box
If your home still uses a fuse box with:
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- Rewirable fuses
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- Cast iron or wooden casing
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- A mix of old components
…it’s a clear sign the system is outdated.
These fuse boards do not provide the same level of protection as modern consumer units.
2. Your Property Has No RCD Protection
RCDs (Residual Current Devices) are essential modern safety components. They protect against electric shock and reduce fire risk.
If your consumer unit has no RCD labels, no test buttons, or only traditional switches, it’s likely older and may need upgrading.
3. You Experience Frequent Tripping
If your power trips regularly, this could mean:
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- Overloaded circuits
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- Ageing wiring
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- Faulty appliances
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- A failing consumer unit
A new unit helps separate circuits safely and improve reliability.
4. Signs of Damage or Burning
Look out for:
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- Scorch marks
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- Buzzing or crackling sounds
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- Melted plastic
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- A warm fuse board casing
These are urgent warning signs and should be checked by an electrician immediately.
5. You’re Renovating or Adding New Electrical Circuits
If you’re upgrading your kitchen, installing an EV charger, adding outdoor power or extending your home, your existing consumer unit may not have capacity for additional circuits.
A modern fuse board ensures everything runs safely and complies with UK regulations.
6. Your Home Hasn’t Been Inspected in 10+ Years
Electrical standards change regularly. If your consumer unit is more than a decade old, or the home hasn’t had a professional inspection, it’s worth checking whether an upgrade is needed.
Why Upgrading Your Consumer Unit Matters
A modern fuse board provides:
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- Better protection from electric shocks
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- Faster response to faults
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- Compliance with BS 7671 regulations
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- Reduced fire risk
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- Improved reliability for modern appliances
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- A safer environment for your family
If you’re renting out your property, a compliant consumer unit also helps you meet landlord electrical safety requirements.
How Much Does a Consumer Unit Upgrade Cost in Sittingbourne?
Costs vary depending on:
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- Number of circuits
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- Condition of existing wiring
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- Size of the property
Most Sittingbourne consumer unit upgrades fall between £350–£650, including testing and certification.
(You may want to link to your “Consumer Unit Replacement” service page here.)
Book a Safety Check or Quote
If you’re unsure whether your home needs a consumer unit upgrade, we offer quick, friendly inspections anywhere in Sittingbourne.
We’ll tell you exactly what’s required — no pressure, no jargon.