Upgrading an existing consumer unit with RCBOs

[NickTG]

hi there I have a plastic consumer unit that was installed about 8 years ago - inside is the standard array with RCD. Im planning to switch to RCBOs (and cost wise I actually bought a fully populated consumer unit as it works out a lot cheaper )

my question is to comply and get through a landlord electrical safely check can i just replace the suite of MCBs(+RCD) with RCBOs or do i need to change the entire box for a metal one ?

The box is by CED but im planning on using BG RCBOs

 

[buzzlightyear]

before any work done all circuits must be checked by a qualified spark to ensure it complies to the current standard an EICR is in order if there is one to be done, by saying this the 18th amendments are out now .

 

[telectrix]

if using BG RCBOs replace the box with a BG metal one. you should not mix brands as the unit has then lost it's compliance and integrity.

 

[littlespark]

What is the decision making going on here?

I can’t see the need to upgrade.

Unless there is a fault causing nuisance tripping, losing half the house…. The fault will still be there.

 

[Mike Johnson]

If as you say you bought a fully populated board this should be metal, why not use that.

 

[NickTG]

If as you say you bought a fully populated board this should be metal, why not use that.

thanks everyone for the comments / have decided to use the new metal box - its just a bit smaller than the existing one and its recessed a bit into the wall so requires some plastering around the sides - so was just trying to avoid doing the cosmetic work after the upgrade

 

[Mike Johnson]

Mitre and glue a wooden angle around it, can look very good if you stain or paint it.

 

[DPG]

Mitre and glue a wooden angle around it, can look very good if you stain or paint it.

Good idea. Or PVC quadrant beading.

 

[buzzlightyear]

Mitre and glue a wooden angle around it, can look very good if you stain or paint it.

Good idea. Or PVC quadrant beading.

Don't be silly a tree trunk would be better.

 

[Doomed]

There already seems to of been some shenanagins going on here, there seems to be 3 types of MCB already.
A distribution board change should only be undertaken by a registared qualified electrician, who will also give you all the paperwork required after a board change.