Looking for Electricians in Dorset? Here Are 10 Things You Should Know About Consumer Unit Upgrades

Our team is currently undertaking consumer unit upgrades across Dorset, Bournemouth, and Poole to ensure compliance with BS 7671:2018 Amendment 2. Modern regulations require the installation of non-combustible metal enclosures in all domestic premises to replace older plastic or wooden fuse boards. These upgrades are essential for improving electrical safety in Poole and surrounding areas, as they provide superior fire containment. We are removing outdated equipment and installing 18th Edition compliant boards that feature mandatory RCD or RCBO protection to prevent electric shocks and isolate faults effectively.

Technical requirements for new installations include several critical components and procedures. Firstly, any new consumer unit must meet current standards, even if existing wiring remains unchanged. Secondly, 30 mA RCD protection is now standard for most final circuits. Thirdly, the use of RCBOs is preferred to minimize nuisance tripping across the property. Fourthly, Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) are fitted as the default option to protect electronic equipment from voltage spikes. Fifthly, Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) are now mandatory in high-risk buildings like HMOs. Sixthly, all domestic units must be metal. Seventhly, a pre-test of all circuits is required before installation. Eighthly, any consumer unit replacement is a notifiable work under Part P. Ninthly, wooden boards are categorized as C2 defects during inspections. Finally, complete testing must be performed post-installation to verify all safety parameters.

We serve residential and commercial clients in Ferndown, Ringwood, and across the locations serviced by our City & Guilds qualified electricians. Our process involves comprehensive circuit verification and the issuance of an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) for every project. Beyond consumer units, our engineers also install positive input ventilation systems and provide full electrical safety checks. We are maintaining a high volume of upgrades this month to help landlords and homeowners meet their legal obligations. Photos of a recent high-end industrial installation in Ringwood are to follow.

Thanks.