Is It Time to Upgrade Your Fusebox? And, Why Rewireable Consumer Units Might Be Holding You Back!
- info208787
- Jun 1
- 2 min read
If your home still has an older-style rewireable fusebox (the type with fuse wire you have to replace when it blows), it might be time to consider an upgrade. These units were once standard in UK homes, but a lot has changed in the world of electrics—and those changes are all about keeping you, your family, and your home safe.
Here's a quick video showing a recent Consumer Unit upgrade with some of the testing that takes place too - you should get a Electrical Installation Certificate where any new consumer unit is installed!
⚠️ Old Fuseboxes Don’t Offer the Same Protection
Modern consumer units (often called fuseboards or breaker boxes) now come with RCDs (Residual Current Devices) and MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers). These aren’t just bells and whistles—they’re there to protect you from serious faults, electric shock, and even fire.
Older fuseboxes rely on fuses blowing when there’s a problem. That might stop an overload, but it doesn’t act fast enough to catch things like earth faults or sudden surges that modern RCDs deal with in milliseconds.
🔥 Fire Risk: Real, Not Rare
Old fuseboxes—especially ones with wooden backs or no main switch—are more prone to overheating and electrical fires, particularly when combined with today’s heavier power usage. Think tumble dryers, EV chargers, air fryers, garden rooms… your fusebox wasn’t designed for any of that.
Upgrading to a modern consumer unit helps futureproof your home and gives you the peace of mind that your electrics are up to scratch.
🧑🔧 It’s Also About Compliance
If you're planning any renovation work, selling your home, or just want things up to current standards, a rewireable fusebox might not cut it. Modern installations need to meet the latest 18th Edition Wiring Regulations—and a new consumer unit is a big step in ticking that box.
👀 How Can You Tell If Yours Is Outdated?
Here are a few signs:
It uses fuse wire and you’ve had to “re-thread” it after a fault.
It’s mounted on wood.
There are no RCD switches.
There’s no labelling, and you’re unsure what controls what.
It’s been there since before you moved in—and that was years ago.
If in doubt, I can take a quick look and let you know where you stand.
✅ What You Get with an Upgrade
When I install a new consumer unit, I make sure everything’s tested, labelled, and fully certified.
You’ll get:
RCD and SPD protection (extra layers of safety)
Clearly marked circuits
A neat, safe install you don’t have to worry about
Peace of mind that your home is protected
💬 Final Thoughts
Upgrading your consumer unit isn’t about upselling—it’s about safety, compliance, and confidence. If your fusebox has seen better days, it might be time to give it a fresh start.
I’m based in Chilcompton and cover surrounding areas like Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, and Radstock. Happy to pop round for a free visual inspection or talk you through the process -- no pressure, just honest advice.
📞 01761 325 007
📱 Or message me on Facebook
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