CU Change - help!

[lsdweb]

Hi All

I've lurked on here for a while but not posted much. I'm looking at a consumer unit change (for my Dad) but it's tricky. I was going to use this for my NICEIC / Elecsa assessment (not decided which yet and don't want to open another debate!).

The existing old Wylex board, meter etc are behind a kitchen cupboard and inset into the inner skin of the cavity wall. All circuits run vertically upwards into the attic (bungalow).

I'm OK with the electrical bit (testing etc) but was wondering what you all thought about the practicalities of doing this job, eg should I relocate the CU ?

I think the photos explain my difficulties!

 

[Rockingit]

In all likelihood, you'll probably find the decision is made for you by the fact that you'll struggle to find a modern board that's small enough to fit in that space.

It's not an uncommon problem! Your options are either knock a bigger opening in the wall, extend the cables so that you can relocate the CU or pick an easier project as a first one then come back to this when you've got a bit more confidence under your belt!

 

[jase]

8 way CU with rcbos would probably fit, more expensive tho

 

[Dan23584]

Instead of a dual rcd board you might be able to fit a 6 way board with just main switch and rcbo's in that space, think they are about 260mm wide. Think the 8 way is not much larger in size either.

 

[Dan23584]

8 way CU with rcbos would probably fit, more expensive tho

Ah you beat me to it by seconds......

 

[jase]

Instead of a dual rcd board you might be able to fit a 6 way board with just main switch and rcbo's in that space, think they are about 260mm wide. Think the 8 way is not much larger in size either.

snap!!!

 

[JamesBrownLive]

ElectricFix are currently doing a MK 10 way HI board, with 1 63A RCD and 2 RCBOs for £50, it also comes with 6 MCBs 2X6A 2X16A 2X32A. I saw one in there today, and I'd swear it's no wider than 30cms. I'd bet my bottom dollar it'd fit in that space in the piccy above.

Edit: That's EX-VAT of course, but still a bargain. The RCBOs would cost that alone.

 

[telectrix]

of fit board sideways.

 

[lsdweb]

Thanks all.

I didn't measure it yesterday but I'm guessing I've got about 450 mm to play with - the cupboard is 600mm. JamesBrownLive - thanks for that. I need to pop to Eletricfix today so will have a look at the CU you suggested.

My other concern is the depth of the cupboard to the unit. The back of the CU is probably about 750 to 800 mm 'inside' the cupboard - am I making trouble for myself using this for my assessment when I have other jobs I can use instead?

Ta

 

[wade88]

ElectricFix are currently doing a MK 10 way HI board, with 1 63A RCD and 2 RCBOs for £50, it also comes with 6 MCBs 2X6A 2X16A 2X32A. I saw one in there today, and I'd swear it's no wider than 30cms. I'd bet my bottom dollar it'd fit in that space in the piccy above.

Edit: That's EX-VAT of course, but still a bargain. The RCBOs would cost that alone.

ABSOLUTE bargain!! Lsdweb id be getting on this little deal right away!

 

[lsdweb]

Already bought one!

 

[lsdweb]

Funny, my earlier post about the CU being mounted so deep into the cupboard hasn't appeared ??

 

[Goody]

As Rockingit says, if it's a project for your assessment, I will look for an a straight forward installation that boosts your confidence and gives you piece of mind.

I am doing a CU change next weekend but you can do it for me and put your name on it, if you want.

Location: East London, Essex.
Supply System: TNCS
Property Type: 3 bed house with six circuits

:welcome:

 

[lsdweb]

Thanks Goody - It's a bit far away for me!

 

[smiffy]

I am doing a CU change next weekend but you can do it for me and put your name on it, if you want.


What a fantastic offer. The trade needs more people like you.

Carl