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RCBO Consumer Units

RCBO consumer unit, also known as a fuse box or fuse board, is a critical electrical device that manages and distributes electricity throughout a building, typically a residential property. The core components of an RCBO consumer unit include the main switch, circuit breakers (also known as miniature circuit breakers or MCBs), and residual current devices (RCDs) or residual current circuit breakers with overcurrent protection (RCBOs). For additional protection against possible fires, AFDD RCBOs are recommended.

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For more information about RCBO Consumer Units check our FAQs section.

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FAQ's

What is an RCBO consumer unit?

RCBO consumer unit is primarily used in residential settings and in essence serves as a central hub for managing electricity flow and safeguarding the home's electrical system. It includes a manual mechanism (Main Switch) for double-pole isolation on incoming circuits and an assembly of safety components like circuit breakers(MCBs), or residual current operated devices (RCDs and RCBOs).

Can I fit a new consumer unit myself?

A qualified electrician must fit the consumer unit. Replacement is an alternation to the existing electrical installation and must be done in accordance with the current edition of BS7671. After completion of work, Electrical Installation Certificate must be issued by the installer.

What are the types of consumer units?

The choice of consumer unit depends on the size and layout of the property, the number of floors, expected load levels, and the degree of protection required for each circuit. In the UK, there are four primary types of consumer units:

  • Main switch consumer unit: Provides a high level of circuit separation, and can be populated by MCBs and RCDs or RCBOs which combine MCB and RCD in one unit to protect each circuit independently. As well AFDDs are recommended for an additional level of fire protection.
  • Dual RCD consumer unit: protects two banks of circuits from earth leakage using two RCDs.
  • High-integrity consumer unit: Used in larger properties with numerous circuits, it offers good circuit separation using two or more RCDs and independent RCBOs. This type allows for fully flexible configuration without restriction on the number of RCBOs.
  • RCD incomer unit: Less common and doesn't use a main switch; usually used as a sub-board to a main distribution panel.

Smaller consumer units are often called garage consumer units as they are typically used in garages or other outbuildings with a fewer number of circuits.

Do I have to replace my old consumer unit?

While old consumer units are still legal and don’t need to be replaced, they may not meet modern safety standards. Since the 17th Edition of IET Wiring Regulations in 2016, plastic units, which pose a higher fire risk, are no longer recommended for home use. Modern metal-clad units offer better fire containment and are the current standard. As well older consumer units do not have RCDs which protect your installation overload and short circuits. Although not mandatory, upgrading to a modern consumer unit could enhance your home's electrical safety.

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