The fuse box is usually called the consumer unit and it dictates the amount of electricity that can run through your home. But if it goes unchecked, it makes your home very dangerous for you and your loved ones. 5 signs you might need to level up:
Age Is A Major Factor
There is no doubt that if your circuit breaker box was made over 25 years ago, then it probably can not pass the safety regulations today. Modern protection devices, like RCDs (Residual Current Devices), which can stop electric shocks and fires from happening. Outdated tech, no matter how much it still seems to do the job, is simply too dangerous when compared with today’s electrical demands.
You Have a Rewirable Fuse Box
Your system doesn’t have the protection modern circuit breakers offer when something trips and you’re still pulling fuse wire. It is these ancient systems that are far too slow to stop serious electrical failures. For an Electrician Cheltenham, contact www.blu-fish.co.uk/electrical-services-cheltenham
Wooden Backing Board
Fuse boxes (those with the wires running through them, mounted on wooden boards) were a recipe for disaster. For modern consumer units, they should be mounted on non-combustible material. When yours is older and if it sits on wood, it does not comply with current regulations so see to its replacement straight away.
Scorch Marks or Burning Smell
Burn marks or any signs of burning, scorch marks or a burnt smell in the fuse box there could be serious issues. This indicates that the cable is overheating or arcing, which can cause electrical fires. Do not hesitate – call an expert electrician immediately.
Frequent Tripping
Burned Out Circuits: If your circuits trip often, this points to your fuse box having a difficult time keeping up with the power needs of your modern home. The scary truth is that modern homes use a lot more electricity than houses did 30 years ago … and old systems simply can’t handle the demand without risking serious danger.
No RCD Protection
RCDs are life-saving equipment that switches off power in a few milliseconds when it recognises an imperfection. If your fuse box isn’t RCD protected, you could be leaving yourself open to risking death by electrocution or from a fire. Most circuits are now required by regulation to have RCD protection.
You’re Planning Renovations
All major electrical work, such as a kitchen refit or extension are likely to require fuse box upgrades kicked off by building regulations. Just spare yourself some hassle and do an upgrade before you getting started.
Rust or Damage
Any physical damage and/or rust/corrosion on your consumer unit may render it unsafe.
A fuse box that is either out-of-date or faulty isn’t just a headache – it’s an actual danger to your safety. With updated consumer units, RCD protection and certified circuit breakers you can relax knowing that what is valuable to your home are protected.
