Does this work need a completely new consumer unit??

[robsto1]

My father wishes to replace his electric shower as part of a bathroom refurb. It is currently connected directly into the old type of fuse box (fuse wire). He lives in a bungalow and has been given conflicting info from 2 electricians. One had said that a new shower consumer unit (between the load and the fuse box will satisfy the new regs. The other has said he must get a complete split load consumer unit fitted to replace the existing fuse box). Can anyone help please. The only work he plans is to physically replace the shower and retain the existing 10mm cable and pull switch. Thanks.

 

[davy_owen_88]

Your father could just have a small CU fitted to house the shower MCB and RCD but it's a better idea to get the old consumer unit replaced as there are likely to be a number of other problems associated with old consumer units that should be remedied before the new shower is installed. Some of these problems are: a lack of RCD protection on socket circuits, lack of sufficiently sized earthing conductors, lack of supplementary bonding conductors, undersized cables/overrated fuses... the list goes on).

Davy

 

[JohnD]

Also, ask him to verify that the electricians he is consulting are both members of self-certification schemes and will issue him with a completion certificate when done. Ask which scheme. See http://www.competentperson.co.uk/
and
http://www.communities.gov.uk/index.asp?id=1131138&syncNav=1#5

If not he will have to notify the local council and pay for inspection and documentation which is more trouble and expense.

 

[jj4091]

the first electrician is talking about fitting one of these & will also have to bring the bonding & earth conductors up to spec. a new consumer unit will cost about £30 extra plus a couple of hous labour, so while they are both stricly speaking telling the truth the decision is yours . www.screwfix.com/app/sfd/cat/pro.jsp?cId=A332309&ts=75003&id=29659

 

[securespark]

Whatever the job, MEB's should be brought up to standard & if the work is being carried out in the bathroom, then supplementary should be done as well.