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When your fuseboard stops doing what it should be doing and starts causing you problems, it's time for an fuseboard upgrade.

The problems and tell tale signs could be some of the following;

  • Unexplained tripping of circuit breakers: 
    If a breaker trips, it could be an overload or underlying fault on the circuit, but as breakers age sometimes they just stop working altogether.
  • If your fuseboard looks old, it might have a wooden backing or generally looks like something out of 70s, it’s probably time to upgrade it.
  • If it has signs of damage or burning, it should be inspected and tested straight away.
  • Does your fuseboard have all the lastest safety features, such as RCDs, SPDs or AFDDs? If not it is recommended to have it updated.

Before any consumer unit upgrade it’s necessary to have your home fully inspected and tested first, as no one wants an underlying fault constantly switching the lights off. Have a look at some of our video here https://www.jjb-electrical.com/mainservice/eicr

Now for the boring bits. 

What is an RCD?

RCD stands for Residual Current Device. It is a safety device that is used to protect against electrical shock and electrocution by detecting and disconnecting the power supply in the event of an electrical fault, such as an earth leakage.
RCDs are designed to detect small imbalances in the electrical current and quickly shut off the power in the event of an electrical fault. They can be installed in a fuseboard or as a standalone device and are required by law in many countries for new electrical installations or major upgrades to existing ones.
RCDs provide a crucial layer of protection for electrical systems and can save lives by preventing electric shocks, electrocution and electrical fires.

What is a SPD?

SPD stands for Surge Protective Device. It is an electrical device that is designed to protect electrical equipment and systems from damage caused by power surges, which are short-duration, high-voltage spikes in electrical power.
A surge protective device is typically installed between the electrical supply and the electrical equipment to be protected. When a surge occurs, the SPD diverts the excess energy to the ground, protecting the equipment from damage. SPDs can be installed in a fuseboard, as a standalone device, or integrated into electrical equipment such as computers or televisions.
SPDs are especially important in areas prone to lightning strikes, power outages, or other electrical surges, as they can prevent damage to sensitive electronic equipment and prolong the life of electrical systems.

What is a AFDD?

AFDD stands for Arc Fault Detection Device. It is a safety device that is designed to detect and prevent arc faults in electrical systems. An arc fault is a dangerous electrical condition that occurs when an electric current jumps across an unintended path, creating a spark or an arc. This can cause an electrical fire and pose a serious risk to people and property.
AFDDs are designed to detect and disconnect the power supply in the event of an arc fault, reducing the risk of electrical fires. They are typically installed in a fuseboard and work by continuously monitoring the electrical current for signs of an arc fault.

If your fuseboard has none of these, it’s probably time to get an electric fuse board upgrade, give us a call on 01992 276087