Replacing Consumer Unit box

[topgazza]

This is slightly odd in that I only want to replace the metal box and not any of the MCBs or tails which are all fine. The consumer box which is metal is showing signs of failure. In that one of the cover screw lugs has decided to part way with the side of the box

The box is fully isolated by a double pole switch and so can be safely worked on. I am an ex electrician now retired so comfortable with doing the work. I would also take the opportunity to mount the box on a osb board with wall spacers rather than the wall.

All this I could do with my eyes closed. I don’t want the expense of getting this tested and certified as to me it’s totally ridiculous given what I am doing. If I can’t do it then I’ll work out a solution to the broken lug but I thought I would ask here

 

[EFLImpudence]

I would just repair it.

 

[ericmark]

I find that old stuff costs more than new, so in the main better to fit all new RCBO's and SPD to try and use old.

What is the real question, is what is the result if the paperwork is not completed?

I can also fit a distribution unit with eyes closed, but around 4 years ago my son borrowed my test gear, so I need to borrow test gear to do the work, which does not have a valid test certificate, so I try to get by with a clamp on and insulation tester.

OK for my own owner occupied house, but if some one asks for the minor works, or installation certificate then the RCD tripping times and loop impedance are simply copied from the preceding document.

I know I should really test afresh, and if you are an electrician so do you.

 

[topgazza]

That’s what I thought. EFL but I would change the box for cosmetic reasons as well as mounting it on a board. That’s if I’m “allowed” to

 

[topgazza]

I find that old stuff costs more than new, so in the main better to fit all new RCBO's and SPD to try and use old.

What is the real question, is what is the result if the paperwork is not completed?

I can also fit a distribution unit with eyes closed, but around 4 years ago my son borrowed my test gear, so I need to borrow test gear to do the work, which does not have a valid test certificate, so I try to get by with a clamp on and insulation tester.

OK for my own owner occupied house, but if some one asks for the minor works, or installation certificate then the RCD tripping times and loop impedance are simply copied from the preceding document.

I know I should really test afresh, and if you are an electrician so do you.

Good points Eric. A new metal box is only £20 - £60 and that’s all I need. The MCBs are fine and there is no certificate in place or required at present. The consumer unit is original from 1989. So I’m not changing or adding any wiring or mcbs . Everything is original apart from the metal case which is cheap as opposed to over £1000 to , unnecessarily, replacing the lot. Which as I say is compliant at the moment. Just checking on the legality of me just changing the box only

 

[JohnW2]

That’s what I thought. EFL but I would change the box for cosmetic reasons as well as mounting it on a board. That’s if I’m “allowed” to

The only thing you are not "allowed" to do (without the cost and hassle of 'notifying' the work to your LA) is to "replace a CU". Unfortunately, I suspect there would be no end to the discussion (and differing opinions!) as to whether or not what you are contemplating would qualify as "replacing a CU"!

 

[topgazza]

My fear precisely John

However overexcited I was at looking at 18 I can’t see any specific mention of just replacing the box. But to be fair I fell asleep after 39 seconds.

That there may well be differing interpretations doesn’t surprise me. I’ll mull it over and see if a repair works

 

[EFLImpudence]

I can’t see any specific mention of just replacing the box.

That's because it is not a box - and surely after dismantling the old CU, you will be replacing it.

I think it would be difficult to argue against that.


I could suggest something that would not be prudent.

 

[topgazza]

I can guess the “not prudent” part. Food for thought

It’s about semantics. The consumer unit is a collection of components. So replacing an mcb is ok but just the metal box ? I would consider the same. But let’s not go down what appears to be rabbit hole

I’ll think about over a cheap glass of wine

I think I now have a clearer view so thank you all

 

[JohnW2]

My fear precisely John .... However overexcited I was at looking at 18 I can’t see any specific mention of just replacing the box. But to be fair I fell asleep after 39 seconds.

The rules say nothing specific bout anything - merely "replacing a CU", but your guess is as good as mine (or EFLI's ) as to exactly what that is, and is not, intended to cover.

Turning your situation on it's head, what about replacing some, many, most (or even all) of the components (MCBs / RCBOs etc.) but retaining the same 'box'. I imagine that opinions about whether or not that is intended to count as "replacing a CU" will also vary, particularly if only a small number of the components are replaced!

 

[Murdochcat]

The 1989 box - what make and model is it ?

You really need to bid it and fit a unit with RCBOs and SPD

 

[topgazza]

Exactly

If I replaced the front cover, cover over the mcbs or just the screws. Where do you stop. But in my opinion is that just replacing the case has no impact on the current safety of the installation. I consider myself a competent person as an ex sparky to do such work safely

Interestingly talking to building control this afternoon after starting this, I think it was them, they seemed to think it was ok for me to do this. And it didn’t require certification as I was changing nothing critical. Introducing rcbos or an additional SPD is a change and completely different. But he said at the end that “it’s an interesting question. Not been asked before” so again, as much an opinion be it all from someone who really should know is what I’m left with

Still I don’t need to take anymore of anyone’s time as I think I am happy with my options

 

[topgazza]

The 1989 box - what make and model is it ?

You really need to bid it and fit a unit with RCBOs and SPD

Wylex

Be nice to upgrade in theory but the actual advantage is zero IMO. House is fine on MCBs and always has been. I have no leaks across the system. The box has an SPD.

Mind you if I win the lottery I might get it upgraded. But I really do appreciate all the views. It’s why I asked of course

 

[EFLImpudence]

Introducing rcbos or an additional SPD is a change and completely different. But he said at the end that “it’s an interesting question. Not been asked before” so again, as much an opinion be it all from someone who really should know is what I’m left with

Still I don’t need to take anymore of anyone’s time as I think I am happy with my options

Well, if he doesn't mind it doesn't matter what we think or the regulations state.

 

[Risteard]

You can't replace the "box" without reterminating everything. It's an absolute nonsense to suggest that this wouldn't be considered to be the replacement of a DB. Anyway, that thing is 35 years old and well, well, well overdue replacement. Your whole premise is complete and utter nonsense. Get your wallet out and book an Electrician.