Are you tired of dealing with outdated electrical systems, frequent fuse blowouts, and the constant fear of electrical shocks? Outdated electrical systems can be a major nuisance and even a safety hazard.
But there’s a solution: consumer unit replacement. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process, costs, and benefits of upgrading your electrical system. Let’s begin:
Average consumer unit replacement cost
The typical cost of consumer unit replacement in the UK ranges from £500 to £1,500, including all materials, labour, and any necessary certification. This wide range reflects the various factors that can impact the overall cost of replacing your consumer units.
For example, the size and complexity of the installation, the type of consumer unit being installed, and the electrician’s hourly rate can be significant factors.
On the lower end of the spectrum, a basic, straightforward replacement of a standard consumer unit in a small to medium-sized home might cost around £500 to £800.
This would typically include the cost of the new consumer unit itself, which can range from £100 to £300 depending on the brand, features, and amperage rating.
It can be substantially more expensive if the installation is complex, such as upgrading to a larger or more advanced consumer unit or working in an older home with outdated electrical systems. It is not uncommon for the total to reach £1,500 in such cases.
It’s important to note that these are just ballpark figures, and the actual cost of your consumer unit replacement may vary depending on your specific circumstances.
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult with a licenced and experienced electrician from my local electrician. Only an expert in consumer unit replacement can evaluate your home’s electrical needs and provide a detailed quote.
Cost of replacing an electrical fuse box with a consumer unit
If you’re still relying on an old electrical fuse box, you’re likely considering upgrading to a consumer unit. But what does this replacement process entail, and how much will it cost?
Replacing an electrical fuse box with a consumer unit is a more involved process than a straightforward consumer unit replacement.
This is because the old fuse box needs to be safely disconnected and removed, and the new consumer unit needs to be installed and configured to meet your home’s specific electrical needs.
As a result, the cost of replacing an electrical fuse box with a consumer unit can range from £800 to £2,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of consumer unit being installed.
In addition to the cost of the new consumer unit itself, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of the electrician’s time and expertise and any necessary permits and inspections.
In some cases, additional work may be required to bring your home’s electrical system up to modern safety standards, further increasing the overall cost.
However, it’s worth noting that upgrading from an old electrical fuse box to a modern consumer unit can bring a range of benefits.
Top advantages include improved safety, increased electrical capacity, and enhanced functionality. In the long run, this investment can pay for itself in terms of reduced maintenance costs and improved peace of mind.
Types of consumer units and their cost
The type of unit you choose can greatly affect both the functionality and cost of replacing the consumer unit. Here’s a look at various types of consumer units available in the UK, along with their estimated prices.
Fully Loaded Consumer Unit: These units come packed with all the necessary features and can cost between £400 to £800.
Split Load Consumer Units: Designed to separate lighting and power circuits, these units typically range from £300 to £600.
Smart Consumer Units: Featuring advanced technology, smart consumer units can cost between £500 to £1,200.
Three-Phase Consumer Units: Ideal for larger properties or businesses, these units can cost £600 to £1,500.
MCB Consumer Units: Equipped with miniature circuit breakers, these units usually cost £250 to £500.
Garage Consumer Unit: Designed for garage installations, these units typically cost between £200 to £400.
RCD Dual-Split Consumer Unit: These units feature residual current devices (RCDs) and can cost between £300 to £600.
High Integrity Consumer Unit: A unit like this can cost between £800 and £1,500 and is designed for high-end installations.
Main Switch Consumer Units: This type of unit is usually priced between £250 and £500 and has main switches.
RCBO Consumer Units: Featuring residual current breakers with overcurrent protection (RCBOs), these units typically cost £300 to £600.
Domestic Switch Fuse: These units are designed for domestic installations and can cost between £200 to £400.
Solar Consumer Units: Ideal for solar panel installations, these units can cost between £500 to £1,000.
Emergency Lighting Consumer Units: This type of unit is intended for emergency lighting systems and typically costs between £300 and £600.
Shower Consumer Unit: These units are designed for shower installations and can cost between £200 to £400.
As you can see, consumer unit type and features play a significant role in overall cost. It’s essential to consider your property’s electrical needs and budget when selecting the suitable unit.
Consumer unit costs based on circuit count and amp rating
Depending on the number of circuits and the amp rating, consumer unit replacement can also cost more or less. As a rule of thumb, the more circuits and the higher the amp rating, the more the cost.
Here’s a rough guide on consumer unit costs based on these factors:
- 4-6 circuits, 60-100 amps: £300 to £700
- 8-12 circuits, 80-100 amps: £400 to £900
- 12-18 circuits, 100-125 amps: £500 to £1,200
- 18-24 circuits, 125-200 amps: £800 to £1,500
Factors affecting consumer unit replacement cost
Several factors can influence the overall cost of replacing a consumer unit. Understanding these can help you budget more effectively:
Type and Quality of the Consumer Unit: Higher-end units with advanced features (like smart consumer units) will naturally cost more.
Size and Complexity of the Installation: Larger homes or more complex configurations will require more time and materials, increasing labour costs.
Condition of the Current Consumer Unit: If the existing unit is outdated or damaged, additional repairs might be necessary, impacting overall costs.
Location and Accessibility: If your consumer unit is in a difficult-to-reach area, labour costs may increase.
Electrical Load and Capacity: Homes with higher electrical demands may require more robust units, which can be pricier.
Brand and Manufacturer: Well-known brands like Schneider, Eaton, and Wylex often come with a premium price tag.
Labour Costs: Rates vary by region and the electrician’s experience level; always get a few quotes.
Permits and Inspections: Depending on your local building codes, you may need permits, which could add to the total cost.
Upgrades and Features: Opting for additional features (like RCDs or surge protection) will raise the price.
Older Homes or Buildings: These may require rewiring or additional work to meet safety standards, impacting costs.
Emergency or Urgent Replacement: If you need a quick replacement, expect to pay a premium.
Comparison: fuse box vs. consumer unit
Upgrading from an old fuse box to a modern consumer unit is a significant decision for many homeowners. Here’s a quick comparison:
Safety: Consumer units often include RCDs (Residual Current Devices) that provide better protection against electrical faults than traditional fuse boxes.
Capacity: Consumer units can handle higher electrical loads, making them suitable for modern homes with numerous appliances.
Convenience: Unlike fuse boxes, which require replacing blown fuses, consumer units use circuit breakers that can be reset easily.
Features: Many modern consumer units come with smart technology, allowing for remote monitoring and better energy management.
Despite higher initial costs when replacing an electric fuse box with a consumer unit, long-term safety and efficiency benefits often more than offset the costs.
When to replace a consumer unit
There are several signs that it’s time to replace your home’s consumer unit. If your current unit is outdated, over 20 years old, or unable to handle your electrical load, it’s likely time for the consumer unit replacement.
Frequent tripping of circuit breakers, flickering lights, or the inability to add new circuits are all indicators that your consumer unit is struggling to keep up.
Additionally, if your home is undergoing renovations or you’re adding new high-powered appliances, it’s a good time to consider consumer unit replacement to ensure your electrical system can safely accommodate the changes.
How long does it take to replace a consumer unit?
There can be a considerable variation in the time required to replace a consumer unit, depending on its size and complexity. On average, a standard consumer unit replacement in a typical UK home can take a skilled electrician 4 to 8 hours to complete.
Isolating the power safely, removing the old unit, installing the new consumer unit, and testing the circuits are all included in that time.
Older homes or upgrading to a more advanced consumer unit may require a longer installation process, sometimes taking an entire day. Any additional work, such as upgrading the electrical supply or rewiring parts of the house, can extend the overall project time.
In a nutshell
Consumer unit replacement is a significant home improvement project that can drastically improve your home’s electrical safety and efficiency. Upon reading this guide, you will gain a better understanding of consumer unit types, their costs, and the advantages of upgrading from an older fuse box.
In this way, you’ll be able to budget effectively and decide when your unit needs to be replaced.
