The consumer unit — often referred to as the fuse board — is the central control point of your home’s electrical system. In many older Wandsworth properties, outdated fuse boards are still in place, offering far less protection than modern systems.
Upgrading your consumer unit is one of the most effective ways to improve electrical safety.
What Does a Consumer Unit Do?
The consumer unit distributes electricity throughout your property and protects circuits from overload and faults.
Modern units include:
- MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers)
- RCDs (Residual Current Devices)
- Surge Protection Devices (SPDs)
Older fuse boards often rely on rewireable fuses, which do not provide the same level of automatic protection.
Why Modern Protection Is Important
RCD protection is particularly crucial. It automatically cuts power within milliseconds if it detects an electrical fault, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock and fire.
Surge Protection Devices help protect appliances from voltage spikes caused by power surges or lightning strikes — something increasingly important given the number of expensive electronics in modern homes.
If your Wandsworth property still has an older fuse box, consulting experienced Wandsworth electricians can help determine whether an upgrade is advisable. Local upgrade services are available at:
https://www.putneyelectricians.co.uk/areas-served/wandsworth-electricians/
Signs You May Need an Upgrade
You may need a consumer unit upgrade if:
- Your fuse board has no RCD protection
- You notice frequent tripping
- The unit feels warm or smells unusual
- You are planning renovations or a rewire
- Your property is over 25 years old
Consumer unit upgrades are also typically required when installing new circuits, EV chargers, or carrying out major renovations.
Compliance with Current Regulations
All new consumer units must comply with the latest UK wiring regulations (BS 7671). Installation must also meet Part P Building Regulations and be certified by a qualified electrician.
Professional installation ensures:
- Correct circuit configuration
- Proper earthing and bonding
- Full testing and certification
- Safe integration with existing wiring
A Smart Investment in Safety
While a consumer unit upgrade represents an upfront cost, it significantly improves safety and reliability. It also provides reassurance for property buyers and insurers.
For homeowners and landlords in Wandsworth, upgrading an outdated fuse board is a practical step towards protecting both property and occupants.
