Adding a second consumer unit

[sparky1966]

Is it possible to add a second consumer unit to a house? Space is limited (to replace for bigger CU ) around the original and there are no available slots to add further circuits. I was therefore thinking if a second could be added nearby. If it is possible what size cable would be needed to link the two?

 

[DurhamSparky]

split the meter tails in a henly block and wire the second CU up from that! Ideally 25mm tails should be used!

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/RDCB6.html

 

[poirot]

How about using a main switch and RCBO's in a suitable enclosure, less room than dual rcd board and one means of
isolation?

 

[DurhamSparky]

that will be EXPENSIVE!!!!

 

[poirot]

Does the existing board require updating? If it does depending on number of
circuits there may not be much in it, if it doesn't, yes it will cost, but still an option.

 

[sparky1966]

Hi Thanks for your reply. Can you not just run the tails for the new CU from the original CU? i.e. from the main switch?

 

[sparky1966]

Hi , Yes it is an old board

 

[DurhamSparky]

you can run the tails from the Main switch but you may find it a struggle to fit the 2 supply cable sinto the same hole..! split tails and saves you having to touch other box!

or alternatively upgrade the whole lot to a 10/12 way box!

 

[sparky1966]

Not enough space to replace. Am i correct in saying the Electricity board will have to come in to turn off power before i split the tails?

 

[DurhamSparky]

Sparky1966, Quick Question with out trying to offend! are you a real sparky as the questions you are asking are unfortunately ones of a DIY'er

You also understand that any work that involves the CU and Earthing System is PART P Notifiable via LABC or a PART P Scheme!

 

[ste mac]

You can get the DNO out to pull the fuse, but most of the ones I come across have no seal on them anyway!

I will fit a seal if I find one missing, a nice DNO bloke gave me a handfull of seals for when I came across a main fuse without one.

 

[sparky1966]

Hiya, No offence taken. No I am not a real sparky just a nickname. Confusing i know. I am thinking of changing / adding CU so need to know who i need to contact etc. Would the power need to be turned off before the electrician splits the tails. Also getting opinions so i know what is going on when it is done.

 

[Jonesy83]

contact a local electrician and get a qoute simple as that if your thinking of doing it yourself your putting yours and your fammilys life at risk as you will need the installation tested and signed off

 

[poirot]

Your bond to gas and water may need upgrading, would advise you seacrh for a local sparks via Elecsa,
Napit, niceic websites, most will advise best solution and quote for free.

 

[DurhamSparky]

No Probs mate,,

Power needs to be disconnected prior to work starting be it the DNO or the Electrician pulling the main fuse!
splitting the meter tails is no big problem but should the current installation not be up to scratch (Earthing and Gas Water Bonding then it needs to be upgraded to meet current standards)
ideally removing the current Cu and replacing with a new Box would be the ideal situation (even relocating is an option)
or if you wish to just add more capacity via a second CU thats fine, it would need to be RCD protected 30ma eith by a RCD Module or a RCBO.

best thing to do mate is give a local spark a ring and he can discuss whats required more in depth and give you a better understanding
search here to find a legit one!

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