Looking for a Fuseboard Upgrade Electrician?

1) Fuseboard Upgrade in Brighton

If your home still has an old-style fuseboard that uses rewireable fuses or is made from plastic, it could be time for an upgrade. I replaced one of these in a home in Patcham last month. The fuseboard was still using rewireable fuses with no RCD protection on any circuits. The homeowner didn't know how outdated and unsafe his fuseboard was until we explained the benefits of upgrading.

I'm Harry ; I run Oval Electrical, and I've been upgrading consumer units in Brighton & Hove for over 10 years.

2) What is actually involved in upgrading a fuseboard?

Modern fuseboards provide protection that older, dated boards simply cannot. For example, they have RCBOs protecting each circuit, so if there is a fault on one circuit, you won't be left without power in the whole home!

On the Patcham job we mentioned above, we installed a Hagar board with individual RCBOs, which means each circuit has its own overcurrent and RCD protection. Also, as standard, all new fuseboards come with a surge protection device, which will protect your sensitive equipment (such as TVs, phones, and laptops) in the case of an electrical surge. That's not something you'll find on old boards.

3) When a Fusebox Upgrade Is Non-Negotiable

Sometimes an upgrade is just a sensible improvement ; however, other times it's essential. Earlier this year, I was called to a large block of flats where the existing plastic consumer unit was located in a communal corridor. That's a serious fire risk. So, we upgraded the board to a new metal-clad unit, which will now contain any potential fire.

4) What's Included

Every fusebox upgrade we carry out includes:

• Testing and ensuring existing wiring is suitable for the upgrade.
• All materials (I install Fusebox and Hagar boards mainly, which are both well-regarded, reliable brands).
• Certification and building control notification.
• A 12-month workmanship guarantee, plus manufacturers' warranty on parts.

5) Why Homeowners and Landlords in Brighton & Hove Choose Oval Electrical

We're a local business ; you won't be dealing with a call centre or a frustrating AI agent. From the moment you get in touch, I'll keep you updated: you'll get appointment reminders so you always know when I'm arriving, and you won't be left waiting around or chasing for information.

Oval Electrical is also NAPIT registered, which means our work is independently assessed and certified to the current wiring regulations. We have over 90 five-star reviews on Google; I'm proud of that, and I'd rather you read them than take my word for it.

6) Pricing

Consumer unit upgrades start from £750 + VAT. The exact price depends on how many circuits the property has and if any other upgrades are required to make the installation safe.

7) What Happens When You Get in Touch

1. Give me a call or fill in the contact form.
2. If necessary, we will arrange a date to come out and assess the job.
3. You'll receive a clear written quote breaking down what work is required.
4. Once you're happy to go ahead, I'll book you in.
5. The work is carried out (most installs take a single day).
6. All certificates are issued upon completion.
7. I'll ask for your feedback, as this always helps us improve!

8) FAQ SECTION

8.0.1) How long does a fuseboard upgrade take? 

The average install takes 1 day if there are no other upgrades required. You will be without power and Wi-Fi for the duration of this time.

8.0.2) Do I need to be at home during the work? 

Not necessarily . If you would like to pop out or need to go to work, we can carry on while you are gone. We will stay in contact if you do pop out, so you are kept updated with progress.

8.0.3) Will I get a certificate when the work is done? 

Yes, every fuseboard upgrade will have an electrical installation certificate and also a building control certificate upon completion.

8.0.4) Does it matter what brand of consumer unit you install? 

I use Fusebox and Hagar boards ; both are well-regarded manufacturers used by the majority of electricians. However, there are other brands out there, but we will not install anything that does not meet British wiring regulations.

8.0.5) My EICR flagged my consumer unit - do I have to upgrade it? 

It depends on what the issue is. A C3 is just advisory and will not fail the report. For example, this could be incorrect labels fitted or older style RCDs. However, any C2s or C1s will need to be rectified immediately. A C2 would be no RCDs on the fuseboard at all, and a C1 would be access to live parts and should be made safe immediately.

8.0.6) Is the price you quote the final price? 

Yes. I always provide a written quote that clearly sets out what work will be done and what it costs. I won't add charges on the day. Materials and certification are included in the quoted price.

8.0.7) Are you able to upgrade the consumer unit in a rented property or block of flats?

Yes, I regularly work with landlords in Brighton & Hove. For HMOs and private rentals, it is essential that the property is safe, which includes the fuseboard.

If you're not sure whether your current fuseboard needs upgrading , the best place to start is by getting in touch with us. I'll take a look, give you an honest assessment, and if work is needed, I'll send you a written quote with no pressure to proceed. Most upgrades are done in a day, and all certificates will be sent within a day.