Firstly, what is heck is an FCU... I do hear you ask!?? Well, it's short for Fused Connection Unit. It is normally used as a way to supply power to a fixed electrician installation - such as a washing machine or fridge - it can easily be switched ON or OFF if needed (although not all have a switch)! However, it isn't just a switch - it is a FUSED switch. In the event of a fault - the small wire inside burns away and kills any electricity going to that faulty device and therefore making is safe from harming you via electric shock!
What does this look like in practice? Well, the general gist of it can be seen here in this video: https://youtube.com/shorts/kUXbOupLzPI
Depending on the MI (Manufacturers Instructions) the fuses selected depends on the appliance or cable. Generally, the smaller the diameter of the cable, the smaller fuse size required to protect the cable! Typically, the sizes range from 3A, 5A, 6A or 13A. It's also adds what's known as discrimination i.e. this fuse, under fault conditions, should blow before the Circuit Breakers in your house do, and so the circuit that the FCU is on, which is typically the Socket Circuits, remain unaffected and carry on working and suppling electricity to the rest of your home.
It's all in the name of safety, for you, the home owner!
If you would like any electrical work completed, no matter how small, please get in touch with your local electrician at info@spellerssparks.co.uk or visit my website: http://www.spellerssparks.co.uk to make a booking...
Or, you could also WhatsApp me on 01761 325 007!
Comments