Sometimes, a consumer unit might need replacing to make the installation safer. While the consumer unit will be replaced, the wiring will be the same wiring that might have been installed up to 50 years ago. This is why a full test (EICR) will need to be carried out to make sure it is safe and legal to upgrade the consumer unit. Often, the installation will need some upgrading and ‘alteration.’

What does a Consumer Unit Upgrade/Replacement entail?

Replacing or upgrading your consumer unit can be for a lot of reasons, such as any of the following:

• Installing or upgrading main protective bonding conductors (the green/yellow cable) to incoming services like water & gas.
• Upgrading bathroom light fittings.
• Fault finding due to degraded or damaged cables.
• Replacing damaged sockets, switches, or light fittings.

What happens during the Consumer Unit Upgrade/Replacement?

A consumer unit replacement and all the work that goes with it could take a full day to complete. The power will be switched off for a few hours but, if necessary, we can install a temporary supply to keep your PC, the router and the kettle going. Food will keep for between 6-8 hours in the fridge and 15-24 hours in the freezer if you avoid opening them too often.

What happens after that?

After the consumer unit upgrade, you will receive an Electrical Installation Certificate to cover the work that has been carried out. An Electrical Installation Certificate is a declaration that the new installation alteration or addition is safe to use and fully functional at the time that it was put into service.