How Much Does it Cost to Install a New Consumer Unit?
Installing a new consumer unit, commonly known as a fuse board, is an essential upgrade for many UK homes. Whether you're looking to meet modern safety standards or handle an increased electrical load, a new consumer unit can offer peace of mind. But how much does it cost? Let’s break it all down.
In This Article
- What is a Consumer Unit?
- Average Cost of Installing a Consumer Unit
- Additional Costs to Consider
- Cost Variations by Location
- Types of Consumer Units: Pros and Cons
- Labour Costs and Installation Time
- FAQs About Consumer Unit Installation
What is a Consumer Unit?
A consumer unit is the heart of your home's electrical system, distributing electricity to all circuits while providing safety features such as circuit breakers and residual current devices (RCDs). Modern consumer units are more efficient and safer than older fuse boxes, making them a popular upgrade.
Average Cost of Installing a Consumer Unit
The cost of installing a new consumer unit in the UK varies based on factors like the type of unit, labour charges, and your location. Here's a breakdown:
| Type of Consumer Unit | Cost of Unit | Total Installed Cost (Including Labour) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Dual RCD Unit (8–10 circuits) | £50–£150 | £450–£600 |
| High-Spec RCBO Unit | £150–£300 | £550–£750 |
| Three-Phase Consumer Unit | £300–£500 | £900–£1,500 |
Prices include the supply of the unit, installation, testing, and certification.
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting for a consumer unit upgrade, there are other potential costs to keep in mind:
| Additional Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rewiring or circuit alterations | £250–£500 |
| Earth bonding upgrades | £150–£300 |
| Fault finding and repairs | £100–£300 |
| Certification and testing only | £100–£200 |
Scaffolding or High Access Costs: If your fuse board is located in a hard-to-reach area, additional charges may apply. For example, scaffolding hire can range from £250–£500 for a small job.
Cost Variations by Location
Location can significantly impact the cost of installation:
| Region | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| London and South East | £550–£800 |
| Midlands and Wales | £450–£600 |
| North West and Scotland | £400–£550 |
Urban areas, particularly London, typically have higher labour costs compared to rural locations.
Types of Consumer Units: Pros and Cons
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dual RCD Unit | Affordable, widely used | Entire RCD trips if one circuit fails |
| RCBO Unit | Individual circuit protection | Higher initial cost |
| Three-Phase Unit | Handles high loads (e.g., commercial) | Expensive and overkill for most homes |
Labour Costs and Installation Time
Electricians typically charge between £200–£300 per day, and a standard consumer unit installation takes 4–6 hours. This includes testing, certification, and ensuring compliance with current regulations (BS 7671).
FAQs About Consumer Unit Installation
1. Do I need a new consumer unit if I’m rewiring my house?
Yes, most rewiring projects involve upgrading the consumer unit to meet modern safety standards.
2. How often should a consumer unit be replaced?
There’s no set timeline, but units older than 25–30 years may not meet current regulations.
3. Is certification included in the installation cost?
Yes, reputable electricians include an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) as part of the service.
4. Can I install a consumer unit myself?
No, only a qualified electrician registered with a competent person scheme can install and certify a consumer unit in the UK.
5. What is the benefit of RCBO units over Dual RCD units?
RCBO units protect each circuit individually, reducing the inconvenience of full power loss during faults.
Upgrading your consumer unit is an investment in safety and compliance. For tailored quotes, consider obtaining multiple estimates from local electricians via services like Checkatrade or Rated People.