Consumer units explained: we are here to answer your frequently asked questions.
A consumer unit, also known as a fuse box, fuse board or distribution board, is a distribution unit used in domestic applications to provide control, distribution and protection to circuits. They are used to control electricity in the home.
Consumer units work to protect electrical installations from damage, and most importantly keeps human beings from being shocked or injured.
They are made up of several components which all work together to provide enhanced protection against overloads, earth leakage and electrical fires:
Consumer units should be easy to find, and most people install them in utility rooms, porches or even downstairs toilets!
According to Building Regulations, consumer units in new dwellings should be easy to reach. They should be mounted so that the switches are between 1350mm and 1450mm from floor level for easy access.
*Replacing a consumer unit should always be carried out by a qualified electrical contractor.
IET Wiring Regulations state that consumer units in domestic premises must have a non-combustible enclosure. Steel is deemed to be a non-combustible material.
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Choose the right consumer unit for you based off on the application.
There are plenty of consumer units to choose from, such as Main Switch, Split Load, Dual RCCB, SPD and even empty boards for a bespoke solution.
The number of ways in a consumer unit will impact how many devices you can wire into your fuse board. Europa’s Sentinel Range offers a wide selection, meaning you can choose from 6 to 36 way options. We also recommend that you allow for unused/empty ways for future modification or expansion.
Our Sentinel Consumer Units come complete with hinged lid and earthed fly lead for quick and easy fitting. The spring retain screws prevent loss during installation.
Top and bottom knockouts, enlarged rear entry and ample wiring space are key features of our boards to benefit installers. Our consumer units are compatible with all our modular devices.
Consumer units don’t always come with surge protection devices pre-fitted, however we have the solution. Our Sentinel SPD fuse boards are available with Surge Protection and 100A Main Switch pre-fitted.
Contact our sales team today for more information
A new requirement for Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) in some AC final circuits for installations in some higher risk residential buildings. Browse our new range of AFDDs.
Changes to identification, labels and notices, for consumer units, affecting how safety information is provided to the user of the electrical installation.
We recommend using CertOn’s innovative QR technology to upload and view certifications and documentation using their cloud-based portal; there is no need for paper documentation. You can get a discount with CertOn with every Sentinel Consumer Unit purchased. Learn more.
Our technical team are here to help if you have any more questions – technical@europa-plc.com
