Upgrading a consumer unit is one of the most important steps you can take to improve electrical safety in your home or rental property, but if you’ve never done it before, the process might seem unclear or even intimidating. Whether your current board is outdated, damaged, or no longer meets the latest regulations, it’s important to understand what’s actually involved. In this post, we’ll break down the process step by step, from inspection to installation, testing and certification so you know exactly what to expect when you book a professional upgrade with Anova.
What’s Involved in a Consumer Unit Upgrade?
Upgrading your consumer unit isn’t just about replacing an old fuse box — it’s about improving safety, complying with regulations, and preparing your property for modern electrical demands. Whether you’re a homeowner or a landlord, knowing what’s involved helps you make informed decisions and avoid surprises.
1. Initial Inspection and Planning
Before any work starts, an electrician from Anova will carry out a visual inspection of your current setup. This includes:
- Checking the condition of existing wiring
- Assessing your property’s electrical load
- Identifying whether any other remedial work is needed
- Discussing your usage (e.g. do you have or plan to install an EV charger, electric shower, or heat pump?)
We also check whether the existing earthing and bonding arrangements are suitable — these are essential for your safety and must be compliant before a new unit can be installed.
2. The Installation Process
Once you’re ready to proceed, here’s what the upgrade typically involves:
- Power is isolated at the mains
- The old consumer unit is safely removed
- A new 18th Edition-compliant metal-clad board is installed
- RCBOs, surge protection, and labelling are set up
- All circuits are reconnected, tested, and documented
The process typically takes a day and involves a few hours without power. Our team will always discuss the best time with you to minimise disruption.
3. Testing and Certification
Once installed, every circuit in your home is tested to ensure:
- Proper disconnection times
- No faults or insulation issues
- All protective devices operate as intended
You’ll receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) confirming the work has been carried out in accordance with BS 7671 wiring regulations. We’ll also handle the Part P notification with Building Control.
4. What to Expect After Installation
After the work:
You’ll have peace of mind with modern protections like RCBOs and surge protection
You’ll have a safer, better-organised electrical system
Your board will be clearly labelled for future ease
If you’re a landlord, your next EICR will likely go much smoother
Why Trust Anova?
At Anova, we carry out every consumer unit upgrade with attention to detail, expert knowledge, and total transparency. We ensure minimal disruption, thorough testing, and full documentation — so you can focus on your home or property portfolio with confidence.
Ready for an upgrade? Contact Anova to discuss your property’s safety and compliance needs.
📞 Call: 02080516482
📩 Email: info@anovauk.com
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