Consumer Unit replacement cables not long enough.

FatAlan · Feb 19, 2019

Ok, so you have a motley collection of old BS3036 fuse boxes that need to be replaced by a new consumer unit. Existing installation tests all good but the T&E coming out of the wall is spread out and not long enough. What do folks do to extend cables or what’s the recognised best practice to ensure a neat and compliant job? Any pics?

Cid · Feb 20, 2019

Best method is to crimp and heat shrink. Anything else would just look rough.

You could also use the existing box to house wago connectors but it doesn't look like you got much room for that.

Andy78 · Feb 20, 2019

I tend to use a lot of 100x50 trunking when doing domestic consumer units, both changes and rewires.
The connections could be housed in there either just in the trunking or in a single box with a blank plate.

It's a useful method to adopt anyway for most jobs as it tidies up all the cables usually, and gives a place to put accessories such as alarm spurs, single sockets, light switches etc

telectrix · Feb 20, 2019

i'd replace lower box with a din rail mad. box, and extend the lower cables with din rail connectors up to new CU where the top box is.

FatAlan · Feb 20, 2019

Thanks for the suggestions folks. Half the trouble with this lark is getting familiar with the products out there.

7029 dave · Feb 20, 2019

The bottom cables, is it floor boarded ?, can you pull some slack up.?

FatAlan · Feb 20, 2019

7029 dave said:
The bottom cables, is it floor boarded ?, can you pull some slack up.?

No slack I’m afraid. It’s a 1950’s semi with what you can see being at the back of the usual small under stairs cupboard.

GBDamo · Feb 21, 2019

FatAlan said:
Ok, so you have a motley collection of old BS3036 fuse boxes that need to be replaced by a new consumer unit. Existing installation tests all good but the T&E coming out of the wall is spread out and not long enough. What do folks do to extend cables or what’s the recognised best practice to ensure a neat and compliant job? Any pics?

Saw this today and thought you may be able to get a few pointers from it.

[ElectriciansForums.net] Consumer Unit replacement cables not long enough.

Gavin John Hyde · Feb 21, 2019

I am a bit of a din rail nut. i just like how they look so nice when dressed properly. so a nice plastic enclosure with din rail connectors for me. might add £20-25 to the materials depending on your wholesaler.

Squid · Feb 21, 2019

Rewire the whole house and book a holiday to the caribbean.........

FatAlan · Feb 21, 2019

GBDamo said:
Saw this today and thought you may be able to get a few pointers from it.

View attachment 47917

I take it that the installation isnt on its side like the photo

GBDamo · Feb 21, 2019

FatAlan said:
I take it that the installation isnt on its side like the photo

No, I took it in landscape to capture all the elements of professional excellence on display.

A true thing of beauty, no?

Oh and don't even fart near it or it'll be off the wall.