How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Fusebox?
A fusebox performs an essential function by distributing electricity supplied by your utility company throughout your property. That’s why it’s vital that your fusebox is reliable and, more importantly, safe. Whether a fault has been detected or your fusebox has just reached the end of its life, there will come a time when a replacement is required.
Below, we look at how you know when to consider replacing your fusebox. We’ll also set out your options and outline the factors determining how much the work will cost.
How do you know when a fusebox needs replacing?
There are several indications that you need to upgrade your fusebox.
In terms of age, while there is no defined lifespan for a fusebox, if yours is 20+ years old, it might not be compliant with the latest safety standards or building regulations. This can compromise electrical safety and lead to a higher risk of fire.
Fuseboxes over 10 years old can show signs of deterioration, indicating a replacement might be due.
Look for such signs as flickering lights or electrical sockets which only work intermittently. You might also experience regular tripping of the circuit breakers, leading to a loss of power.
Further reasons for considering replacing your fusebox are:
- Increased capacity is required due to the addition of a house extension, for example.
- Your insurer demands an upgrade to fulfil the requirements of your policy.
- You have rental properties which need an updated fusebox for the purposes of the Electrical Installation Condition Report.
- You need an existing fusebox moved or an additional one added (such as in the garage).
To make things easier, we’ve put together a guide – Is your fusebox outdated, inefficient or even dangerous? Head to our homepage, where you can download the guide for free.
What are your options for a replacement fusebox?
The traditional fusebox has been replaced by what’s called a “consumer unit”. They look the same as the older versions but have several advantages, including:
- Ease of use
- Improved safety features
- Compliance with up-to-date regulations
- Higher capacity than older-style fuseboxes
- Improved energy efficiency
- Lifespan of around 20 to 30 years
While there are several types available, consumer units generally comprise the following elements:
Main switch: This is the master control for electricity flow into your property. You can flip this switch to cut off your entire electricity supply.
Mini circuit breakers: Also known as fuses, MCBs limit the risk of fires by cutting the electricity supply to a specific part of the property if an overload is detected.
Residual current devices: RCDs are another safety feature often missing from older-style fuseboxes. They are triggered if the current becomes too high or a fault is detected.
Residual current circuit breaker with overload: Selected models will include a combined safety feature, known as an RCBO, in one device.
Surge protection device: Some consumer units have these fitted as a further safety measure. Surge protection is particularly recommended for properties in areas prone to lightning strikes.
Types of consumer unit
There are several consumer units available, each of which is suited for different uses and capacities. The main types are:
High-integrity consumer unit: This is one of the most popular types for domestic use, featuring RCBOs and two banks of MCBs with capacity for up to 12 circuits.
Dual RCD consumer unit: These units are often cheaper than high-integrity units, with a main switch and two RCDs.
Main switch consumer unit: This simply comprises the main switch component with RCBOs typically added, as required by the user.
In addition, there are garage consumer units, also known as small RCD consumer units or RCD incomers. These are smaller and specifically designed for the needs of garages, sheds and other outdoor buildings. They do not have a main switch.
If you wish to install an electric shower, you might be able to use a shower consumer unit. This can avoid the need to replace your main fusebox by adding additional capacity solely for the electricity supply to the shower. Similarly, an EV consumer unit is available for home electric vehicle chargers.
An expert electrician will be able to advise on the best type of unit for your property, needs and budget.
What is the cost of a consumer unit?
In general, you should budget around £500, including the unit and labour, for replacing a fusebox with a consumer unit.
If you want to buy a standalone consumer unit, they start at around £50. You will then need to hire a qualified electrician to install the unit. The work takes around half a day.
However, the length of the job and the overall price will depend on certain factors. They include the size of your property and the type of unit required. In addition, additional costs will apply if, for example:
- A full electrical inspection is carried out
- You want the unit installed in a different place than where it is currently located
- Additional problems are detected (such as with the wiring)
- New or replacement light switches or sockets are required
- Earth bonding is needed (this should already have been done in most properties)
Another thing to note is that consumer units are often priced by the number of circuits.
If you look at your current fusebox, you can see there are switches controlling electricity supply to specific parts of the home. These are the circuits.
Most homes have around six circuits. However, you can get a consumer unit with 10 or 12 circuits, which offers increased capacity.
Consumer unit prices also vary due to their amp rating. This is usually between 40A and 100A. Most homes require at least 100A. Garage consumer units are often 40A to 60A.
Given these variables, for an accurate price on replacing your current fusebox with a modern consumer unit, the best advice is to obtain a tailored quote from a qualified and experienced electrician.
Get a quote for the cost of your fusebox replacement
If you want to know how much it will cost to replace your fusebox, the team at SparkPro Electrical are just a phone call away. Contact our NAPIT-accredited team on 020 3576 5539 or email info@sparkproelectrical.co.uk to arrange a quote for your West London property.
