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Consumer units are crucial in ensuring a safe electricity supply to our homes. They are the things that link and protect us from the grid. Therefore, knowing the kinds of units that exist and those that work well for our application is essential.

There are four main types of consumer units, and all serve different purposes. For example, some are geared towards large commercial use, while others are residential. At the same time, some have more features than others and come in at different price points.

In this article, we will look at the four main consumer units, how they work, and their uses. So if you’re ready to get connected, keep reading to learn more.

Main Switch Electric Consumer Unit

The main switch is responsible for turning the power on and off on your consumer unit. A modern consumer unit comes with other features such as RCBs and MCBs that help make it even safer. But a main switch consumer unit only comes with the main switch that turns the power on and off with no additional functionality.

Its primary purpose is to connect and isolate you from the grid. You can use it to shut power off for maintenance purposes.

They are still safe to install in your home, but additional precautions are better. The good thing is that you can still add RCBs and MCBs after only having installed the main switch consumer unit. They are also pretty cheap and easy to install.

Dual RCD Electric Consumer Unit

As the name suggests, a dual RCD (residual current devices) consumer unit comes with the main switch and two RCDs. They allow you to split your power circuit into two. Separating your circuit enables you to remain with one active circuit when one is tripped. This allows you to figure out the cause of the trip as you use the other.

They are a bit expensive than the main switch consumer unit but still cheaper than other alternatives. And great for residential applications.

High Integrity Electric Consumer Unit

High integrity consumer units allow for more separation of circuits. They have three neutral bars, essentially providing three circuits. An added advantage is that they also allow for residual current-operated circuit breakers or RCBOs.

They are effective for instances requiring 12 circuits or more without costing you an arm and a leg. They also make circuit design easy and offer excellent protection from power overload and overcurrent. More circuit separation also helps prevent electric shocks and curb tripping.

High integrity consumer units are excellent for residential and small business applications.

RCD Electric Consumer Unit

RCD (residual current devices) consumer units are specialized units used in an application with few circuits. They are used mainly in shops, small garages, and sheds.

They do not come with main switches. Instead, a specialized RCD carries out this function. And because they do not offer circuit separation, residual current, or any tripage turns off power for the entire circuit. This makes them unpopular for home use, and they are seldom installed in houses.

However, they are cheap to install and maintain and excellent for light commercial use.

LIVE electric consumer units are becoming more and more popular, and there are a few reasons why. They’re convenient, they’re environmentally friendly, and they’re affordable. If you’re looking to save money on your electricity bill, you might consider investing in a LIVE electric consumer unit. These units are designed to help consumers reduce their energy consumption by using less electricity, and in some cases, they can even generate their power! In addition to saving money, these units can also help reduce carbon emissions and help the environment. So why not give one a try? You might be surprised at the benefits!

Benefits of LIVE Electric Consumer Units

1. Increased Safety

The increased safety of using a LIVE electric consumer unit is another significant benefit. By reducing your energy consumption, you’re helping to protect yourself and your family from potential accidents.

2. Increased Savings:

One of the most significant benefits of using a LIVE electric consumer unit is its increased savings on your electricity bill. You could save up to 50% on your energy bill in some cases!

3. Increased Reliability:

When you use a LIVE electric consumer unit, you can also increase the reliability and stability of your home. By reducing energy waste, you’re helping to protect your home from potential blackouts or power outages.

4. Increased Efficiency:

One of the main benefits of LIVE electric consumer units is their increased efficiency. These units are designed to reduce your energy consumption by up to 90%. This means that you can save a lot of money on your electricity bill, and in some cases, you could even generate your power!

5. Reduced Carbon Emissions:

Another benefit of using a LIVE electric consumer unit is decreased carbon emissions. By reducing your energy consumption, you’re helping reduce carbon emissions in the environment.

6. Improved Overall Home Performance:

In addition to the benefits listed above, using a LIVE electric consumer unit can improve overall home performance. By reducing wasteful energy usage, you’re helping to reduce your home’s wear and tear and potentially save you money in the long run.

7. Improved Home Appearance and Comfort:

When you use a LIVE electric consumer unit, you can improve the appearance and comfort of your home by reducing wasteful energy usage.

Why Should You Choose Electric Discounted Supplies?

We have a wide range of electrical supplies, including LIVE electric consumer units, to meet your specific needs. We offer a wide range of options, such as online shopping and free shipping on qualifying orders over £90. Plus, our expert staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today at 01925 814404 to learn more about our products and services!

Do you think that electric consumer units would benefit all consumers or just a few?

There are a few reasons why all consumers could benefit from electric consumer units. For one, these units can help reduce your energy consumption, saving you money on your electricity bill. Additionally, reducing carbon emissions is also a positive outcome of using electric consumer units. In addition to these individual benefits, overall home performance may be improved when these units are used correctly. By reducing wasteful energy usage and improving overall home performance, all consumers would likely benefit.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for ways to improve your home’s overall performance, save money, and reduce your carbon footprint, electric discounted supplies could be the answer you’re looking for! With so many benefits to be gained, it’s no wonder that more and more consumers are turning to this practical and eco-friendly solution. Check out our website for more information on electric consumer units!

Like most homeowners, you probably have a few electrical gadgets and appliances in your home that you can’t live without. And chances are, you’re using these appliances and gadgets – and the electrical system they’re plugged into – without even realizing it. But what is an electrical consumer unit, and how does it work? In this blog post, we’ll answer these questions and give you a better understanding of how your home’s electrical system works – from the ground up.

What is LIVE Electric Consumer Unit?

A LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit is a device that helps to reduce the load on your electricity grid by consuming electricity on-site. Doing so helps reduce the amount of power required to be supplied by the grid and ultimately lowers your electricity bill. In simpler terms, a LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit is a way to save you money on your electricity bill. So, these units are great for homeowners who want to reduce their electricity bills and help the environment at the same time.

How Does LIVE Electric Consumer Unit Work?

To understand how a LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit works, it’s essential to know how the electricity grid works. The electricity grid is an extensive network of electric circuits that supplies power to homes and businesses throughout the United States. Grid-connected devices such as appliances, computers, televisions and tools all require energy to operate – and this energy comes from sources like coal or natural gas plants.

Things get interesting: when you turn on an appliance, TV or tool, the electricity required to power it instantly flows from the grid. And while your home’s meter measures this amount of power usage and sends it off to your utility company, a LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit helps reduce that power consumption by consuming electricity on-site.

How to Choose Which LIVE Unit Fits Your Power System Needs?

It would be best to keep in mind a few things when choosing a LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the unit is compatible with your power system – meaning that it’s designed specifically for use with your home’s electrical wiring. Second, you’ll want to ensure that the unit has the necessary features and specs to meet your specific needs. And finally, you’ll want to make sure that the unit is affordable – because, after all, you don’t want to break the bank when it comes to reducing your electricity bill!

Is there any danger to your house if you have a LIVE electrical consumer unit in your home?

Absolutely not! Contrary to popular belief, there is no danger to your house if you have a LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit. This device has been safely installed in millions of homes across the United States without any issues whatsoever. So now that you know more about how a LIVE Electrical Consumer Unit works and what it can do for your energy bill, why not give one a try?

Electric Discounted Supplies have a variety of units that are based on your needs and home features. We also offer FREE home delivery. Contact Us at 01925 814404 or visit our website today and place your order; we will deliver your order the next day.

Conclusion

A LIVE electric consumer unit (ELCU) can be a great way to cut your electricity costs while also benefiting from energy efficiency enhancements. By understanding how it works and choosing the right one for your home, you can rest assured that you’re not putting your house at any risk. Electric Discounted Supplies are an expert in all things electrical. Our products are designed to be safe and effective, so you can feel confident that they’ll do the job!

A consumer unit plays a vital role in powering all circuits within a property. This device is made up of various parts, including the main switch, RCDs or residual current device and circuit breakers. Well, it’s important to ensure you know the location of the consumer unit within the property in case of an emergency that requires you to turn off the consumer unit.

The Main Switch

This switch allows you to control the electrical supply within the home. It also makes it easier to turn the consumer unit on and off. Generally, everything inside the consumer unit is controlled by this main switch, including the RCDs and the circuit breakers.

Residual Current Devices (RCDs)

RCDs are vital and life-saving devices that help by turning off the power as soon as it finds a fault. This prevents the homeowner or anyone else within the property from touching something live and getting a serious electric shock. RCDs are always running as they monitor the electrical flow of the home.

As from July 2008, the Wiring Regulation set out a regulation that all rewired or new homes must include RCDs fittings. Fixed RCDs are common and are the ones that are mostly found inside the consumer unit and give you the best protection over a number of circuits.

Circuit Breakers

Averagely, every house will have at least 6 circuits, each being controlled by the circuit breaker within the consumer unit. Just like the RCDs, circuit breakers also trip and turn off once they detect an overcurrent fault. This also protects you against shock.

For example, if your house has a 5 amp circuit breaker and detects 10 amp of current, it immediately trips and cuts off the electrical flow as there is an overcurrent flow. Once a circuit breaker trips, you can try turning it on again. However, it’s advisable to seek assistance on the main reason behind the tripping. Circuit breakers will always trip due to a certain reason, and it’s in your best interest to investigate further.

Circuit breakers will either work using a thermal method with the overload function – for example, a 10 amp flowing through a 5 amp breaker or through a magnetic principle where you get a short circuit as soon as the magnetic element is activated disconnects the circuit breaker immediately.

Bus Bar

Well, probably you will never see the bus bar unless you are working on a consumer unit like registered electricians. It’s a lengthy copper strip with big teeth that helps in locking the circuit breaker, the main switch and the RCDs into their positions within the consumer unit.

Finally

These are parts of what makes up a consumer unit. However, it’s wise to always check your consumer units for any warning signs of dangers. Ensure you monitor the device’s condition and seek professional help when needed. Any signs of thermal damage on your consumer unit are an indication that it has to be properly checked or replaced.

Also, go for a quality by choosing Electrical Discounted Supplies . You can always reach out by using our number which is 01925814404 and all your queries will be put to rest.

You’re in dire need of changing your consumer unit. As a homeowner, it’s imperative to consider certain factors before changing the fuse box. Incorporating such factors will put you in the best position to pick the right LIVE Electrical consumer unit from Electrical Discounted Supplies. Here are factors you should consider when changing a consumer unit.

Conducting an Electrical Installation Condition Report

The electrical contractor you hire will encourage you to have this report before any replacement is done. It will ascertain the set regulations are met. It helps you to pick the right design and various protective devices for the new fuse box.

It’s important to know the level of security needed under BS7671. It will help you design the BS7671 requirements, expectations, and budget. You wouldn’t have to go overboard or be more onerous than the needed requirement.

Planning for Future Changes

It’s expected that you can shift from an original plan you had for your consumer unit. It’s therefore imperative to give space to future changes rather than react to it. It will help you not to waste a lot of time later in the project. It’s therefore wise to choose a consumer unit that will, on the onset, have room for future changes.

The unit you go for can have room for an additional circuit layout. For example, if you’re planning to get a 10-way consumer unit, it’s wise to pick a 12 or 15-way consumer unit to leave room for future changes.

Important Circuit Plus Circuit Separation

It’s always important to zero down which circuit requires circuit separation for maximum protection. It is also important to separate high priority to prevent chances of earth leakage from one another from happening. Some high-priority circuits include security alarms and smoke alarms, but this will depend on a homeowner.

The kind of Consumer Unit

There are various things you will consider before choosing a consumer unit. They include your budget, type, and a number of circuits. These factors ultimately make you for the appropriate consumer unit that will fit your home adequately.

There are three main types of consumer units to choose from: the high integrity consumer unit, main switch consumer unit, and fully loaded consumer units. The three types are effective in meeting different homeowner needs. Electrical Discounted Supplies provides all three types of consumer units at affordable prices.

Final Thoughts

The above factors will put you in a better position to pick a consumer unit that is just right for your property. It’s therefore imperative to keep them in mind when searching for a suitable fuse box for your property during the replacement process. Electrical Discounted Supplies is the best place to shop for everything consumer unit. We have metal enclosures main switch consumer units, among other products. The good thing about our product is that they have met the 18th edition regulations and are affordable. Reach out to us today at 01925814404 for a quote or inquiry. We are just a phone call away!

A fuse box or consumer unit as they go by today is a vital safety feature within any home. This gadget is designed to protect your property and you against electrical hazards like shock and fire. It features RCDs protection which operates by monitoring the electrical current and instantly switching off the circuit in case of any detected error.

Once this happens, your consumer unit will immediately trip and turn off the electricity. Once you’ve sorted out the problem, you can then turn on the consumer unit. There are many reasons why consumer units keep on tripping; here, we will cover three main consumer unit tripping causes.

There is a Faulty Electrical Item

The main reason behind consumer unit tripping is faulty electrical gadgets. This can either be a larger electrical system like a fridge, washing machine, tumble dryer, or even your small devices, including iron, bedside lamp, or your hair straighteners. Once you identify which item is causing the consumer unit trip, it must be switched off and get an electrician to have a look at the device.

If you are not very sure on which item is responsible for the trip, you can try them out separately. Also, seize from using the faulty electrical device until it has been repaired.

You have a Faulty Circuit

The other reason for consumer unit tripping is when an electrical circuit within the property becomes faulty. This can either be a circuit that leads to the property’s lighting or the plug sockets. These are mainly controlled by the circuit breakers within the fuse box. Once the circuit breaker shuts off the specific circuit, a professional electrician can help you in rectifying the problem.

Your wiring is wrong

Constant tripping is an indication that your wiring is not up-to-date and cannot cope with the electrical demand of your modern living, which includes the need to use the TV, phone charger, and washing machine all at ago. If your electrics have not been checked for a long time, then it’s possible they may not adhere to the recommended standards and needs to be upgraded immediately.

It’s vital to ensure you have a standard wiring system. This will give the consumer unit a chance to work properly without having to trip often. It’s also important that you choose a consumer unit from reliable sellers. Some of the units in the current market are not up to standard and can end up malfunctioning instead of offering the right services.

How can you prevent Circuit Overloads?

To manage and control circuit overloads that can lead to your consumer unit tripping, make sure you place all large appliances separately. If you notice a regular circuit overload in your home, for example, in the kitchen, you will have to install a new circuit and socket that can handle the electrical load.

Finally

At Electrical Discounted Supplies we are the best, a reason why many clients trust them. We also have a team of professionals who will help you detect the main cause of the consumer unit tripping. Feel free to reach out through 01925814404.

A consumer unit regulates the electrical supply in your home. The fuse box needs to be upgraded every 25 years, so if you’re living in an old house, you need it inspected by a certified electrician. Even so, it’s important to check the electrical panel on a regular to ensure it’s working efficiently.

If your fuse box is constantly tripping or you have a power outage, it’s time to replace it. The cost of replacing your consumer unit will depend on various factors. Let’s delve right in.

Size of Consumer Unit

The size of your fuse box will come into play when you’re planning for an upgrade. You need to know the amps you’ll need for the entire house as different rooms may require separate fuse boxes. Knowing the amps needed, puts you in an excellent position to know the type of consumer unit to go for.

A huge house with many electrical appliances will require a large electrical panel than a small house. If you’re going for a 120-volt or 240volt electrical panel, it will majorly depend on the outlets you have in your house. At Electrical Discounted Supplies provides various LIVE consumer units and enclosures at affordable prices.

The Kind of Consumer Unit Needed to be Installed

It’s important to know the type of electrical panel your home needs for replacement. Failure to do this, you can lose a huge amount of money in the upgrading process. Breaker panels are usually on the high end when compared to fuse panels. This is because the breaker panels are a better place to protect your home from fires.

Furthermore, their cost will also depend on your location, current age and nature of your fuse panel. If you’re going for a type that would require tons of wiring and studs, it will increase the overall cost of installation. Other things can affect the cost. A certified electrician will break it down for you.

Upgrading the Existing Wires

If your consumer unit has surpassed the 15-year mark, you need to upgrade it. The panel can be outdated in terms of wiring and thus would cause the upgrading to be higher. The wiring needs to follow the updated set of regulations. This means more material would be used at this juncture, thereby increasing the cost.

You can talk to Electrical Discounted Supplies, who are in a better position to advise you what type of wiring you need for your electrical panel. They will factor in a lot of features like the number of circuits and circuit breakers in your house. As such, determine the nature of wiring in your electrical panel.

Conclusion

Upgrading your electrical panel is crucial, especially if it is old and outdated. Various factors will affect the cost of the project, as mentioned above. Talking to certified installers like Electrical Discounted Supplies will go a long way in ensuring you only select the suitable electrical panel for your house. Reach out to us today at 01925814404 for a quote on metal enclosures or more information about the consumer unit.

It’s a given must that a consumer unit has to be inspected after every 10 years. This can make homeowners oblivious of the fact that they need to conduct basic checks on their consumer unit to ensure they are working efficiently. These basic checks will help you to notice problems that you can fix there and then.

If you’re leasing out a property, then it’s imperative to have the consumer unit inspected after every five years or after a new tenant occupies the place. It will help you know particular issues that can cause problems to an ongoing installation. But even so, homeowners should conduct their regular checks on their consumer units.

Checking the RCDs

After every six months, it’s imperative to check your RCDs. RCDs are vital components that provide safety. There are labels on your consumer unit that has indicated how you’re going to test your RCDs and when to do it.

You’ll press down the button T that symbolizes Test. The consumer unit box will then switch off when the button T is pressed. You’ll then restore the fuse box by resetting the switch. There’s a problem if you find that the consumer unit does not switch off when the button T is pressed. Call an electrician for advise.

The Consumer Unit

The fuse box must have a minimum of IP rating to prevent combustible or conductive materials from falling into it and prevent an individual from touching live parts. If it happens that you’re able to fit your finger into it, then the fuse box must not be following the IET wiring regulations. Something that has to be corrected immediately.

At this point, it’s only safe to get rid of the fuse box and get one that is compliant with the wiring regulations. Go for a fuse box that will fit cables entries to protect it from fire. A good place to buy a consumer unit that is up-to-date regarding regulation is at Electrical Discounted Supplies.

Cables

The cables from the fuse box must be protected from abrasion. There shouldn’t be any chances of contact with sharp objects. You can secure these cables with a rubber grommet to evade sharp objects in the consumer unit becoming in contact with cables.

Cables usually have sheath protection inner and outer cores for maximum protection. The inner cores must not be visible for whatever reason. The cables must also be supported to avoid mechanical straining. If there are strained, they can become loose and cause fire, something you don’t want.

To Conclude

These simple checks will put you in a better position to rectify any problem before it becomes dire and cause costly damage. If you’re in need of new metal enclosures, or a brand new consumer unit box, then outsourcing from reputed Electrical Discounted Supplies is the way to go. All our products are updated with the set wiring regulations and are pretty affordable.

While many people find consumer unit equipment as a scary electrical gadget, we take pride in selling the best type you can ever find in the market. The gadget helps in protecting the home. However, many people still have a wide range of questions on the operation of consumer units. Well, here are five FAQs that are common with fuse boxes.

What are the differences between the fuse board, Consumer Unit, and Fuse Box?

A fuse board or fuse box refers to the outdated name of what is currently known as consumer units. Modern consumer units feature the main switch, MCBs, and RCDs.

What are MCBs and RCDs, and what is their purpose?

The main purpose of RCDs is to offer protection against electrical fires and electric shocks simply. They are responsible for detecting even the slightest amount of leaking currents and quickly react by cutting down the power before electrocution or injury happens. A standard consumer unit has to feature at least two or even three RCDs.

MCB’s purpose is to protect the electrical circuit against any damage this is caused by excess current. They are responsible for preventing overload within the circuits and the electrical wires. Simply they are responsible for preventing any overheating through cutting off electricity immediately after a fault has been detected. With new consumer units, you will find single MCBs for every electrical circuit within your property.

What does it mean when an RCD Trips?

Once an RCD trips within the fuse box, then the RCD switch automatically flips to an off position. This normally indicates there is a fault within one of the electric circuits. A major and common cause of such an occurrence is faulty appearance, among other reasons.

What should you do when an RCD Trips on your Consumer Unit?

Well, first try to reset your RCD by carefully toggling the RCD switch on. If it was just a temporary flip, doing so would solve the problem. However, if it fails and strips immediately, you can:

1. Try and identify the faulty circuit

• Flip each MCB protected by the RCD off
• Flip your RCD switch back on
• Finally, switch your MCBs back on

When an RCD trips, you will then get to know which circuit is experiencing the problem. After which you can decide to seek the services of an electrician.

2. Check for faulty appliances

• Unplug all appliances
• Reset your RCD to ON
• Plug the appliances one at ago

If the RCD strips once you plug in a certain appliance, then it is the source of the error.

How often should you Test the RCDs of Your Consumer Unit?

After every 3 months is a good period to check if the RCDs are functioning perfectly. This will help you identify if there is any problem with the consumer unit and make a replacement as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Well, if you have any issue with your consumer unit, you can easily make a purchase at Electrical Discounted Supplies with just a click. We have a wide variety of consumer units that best meet your electrical requirements.

As you already have an idea, choosing the right consumer unit is very important. Every modern property must have a consumer unit to distribute the right amount of electricity to the various circuits within a property. Therefore, a consumer unit features lots of purposes, and it’s only logical that you settle for the best LIVE Electrical consumer units.

As much as it’s vital to ensure you go for a consumer unit that best suits your electrical application needs, you must also understand its basics.

The Basics of Consumer Units

One of the major purposes of a consumer unit is to allow the use of different circuits, which can also be protected separately by the circuit breaker. For example, your home can have separate electricity supplies for the up and downstairs area. The property may also have an individual electricity supply for its exteriors.

Well! This is where the advantage of consumer units comes in. The unit makes it possible for the different circuits to be easily used for these electrical supplies.

Therefore, consumer units are the central distribution hubs for any electrical supply. It supplies the right wiring system for any electrical source that you may have within your property, household, or building. This includes the lighting, sockets, plugs, and many others.

To choose the best consumer unit, you must therefore consider:

The application of the consumer unit

Initially, these units were referred to as fuse boards, and they were used in housing electrical fuses. However, today things have changed significantly, with miniature circuit breakers replacing the original fuses. You can, therefore, easily reset the MCB if there is an electrical overload with just a simple flick on the switch. Something that was not possible with a fuse as it had to be replaced by an expert, which was a bit expensive.

The consumer unit also allows an individual to disconnect the electricity supply. This is most important in situations where the property owner wishes to safely replace light bulbs, a switch, or even plug sockets.

The Safety of your Property

Any property owner would wish to enhance the safety of their property with the best circuit protection. You can easily use a consumer unit device that offers reliable electrical disconnections. This is mostly vital where there is an occurrence of an actual imbalance or even a disparity within the current of electricity.

Whether you need a small or large consumer Unit

The size of the consumer unit highly depends on the intended application. If you wish to acquire a smaller consumer unit, the garage unit is one of the most popular units available in the market. This unit features single circuit breakers with a residual current device.

Suppose you wish to acquire a larger consumer unit. In that case, you can either choose to settle with a double-stacked unit that offers efficient circuit protection for as many as 32 electrical circuits. However, larger consumer units are more effective in industrial or commercial settings.

Summing Up

All in all, consumer units are altogether vital components within a property. This is since they are the primary electricity distributor with households and property. It’s, therefore, a risk to have a single circuit running through the house without any circuit protection.

At Electrical Discounted Supplies, we understand an effective consumer unit’s importance, usefulness, and impact.