When it comes to electrical safety in Hertford, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire and Essex, few things are more critical than your home’s fuse board — or as it’s now properly called, the consumer unit.
But what actually prompts someone to replace theirs? And what happens during the process? At JJB Electrical Ltd, we recently carried out a fuse board upgrade in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire — and their story is one we hear often. Let’s walk through it.
The Home: A 1980s Semi-Detached Property
The client contacted us after an electrician performing unrelated work advised them to consider an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report). The family had recently added a new kitchen, installed an electric oven, and were experiencing the occasional fuse tripping when using appliances at the same time. We visited the property and carried out a full inspection. What we found was common — and potentially dangerous.
The Problems We Found
- Rewirable fuses with no RCD protection
- No Surge Protection Devices (SPD) — a risk with modern electronics
- Circuits not labelled, making fault-finding difficult
- Overloaded socket circuits due to extensions and kitchen appliances
- Limited room for adding future loads (they also had an EV on order)
These same issues are regularly found in older homes across Hertford, Cheshunt and wider Hertfordshire, making fuse board upgrades one of the most requested electrical services we provide.
The Solution: Upgrading to an 18th Edition Consumer Unit
We recommended a full consumer unit replacement using a high-quality, fire-rated metal enclosure board with:
- RCBO protection on every circuit
- Main RCD backup for added protection
- SPD device to protect computers, TVs, and smart devices
- Room for future additions (EV charger + garden supply)
- Full labelling and documentation for insurance and sale purposes
This modern setup complies with the 18th Edition BS 7671 wiring regulations, giving the family complete peace of mind.
What the Upgrade Involved
Here’s how the day looked for our Cheshunt client:
- 08:30 – Power isolated and safety lockout in place
- 09:00 – Old fuse board carefully removed
- 11:00 – New consumer unit installed with RCBOs, RCD, SPD
- 13:00 – Full testing of all circuits
- 14:30 – Labels applied, certificate issued, site cleaned
The whole process was completed in less than a day, leaving the home safe, compliant, and ready for future electrical needs.
What the Client Said
“We always assumed our electrics were fine because we hadn’t had any big issues, but Jamie showed us just how outdated the setup really was. The upgrade has given us peace of mind, and everything was done quickly and professionally. You wouldn't even know they'd been here — except everything looks and feels safer!” — Mrs. L, Cheshunt
We’ve carried out similar fuse board upgrades in Hertford, with homeowners telling us the same thing: “We wish we’d done it sooner.”
Why This Upgrade Matters
Most people don’t realise their fuse board is outdated until:
- They have an EICR done
- They experience nuisance tripping
- They’re preparing for an EV charger or new appliance
- Their insurance or mortgage advisor flags it
Waiting until something goes wrong is risky. An upgraded board:
- Reduces fire risk
- Prevents electrocution
- Protects appliances during surges
- Increases property value
Do You Know What Fuse Board You Have?
If your Hertford or Cheshunt fuse board hasn’t been checked or upgraded in the last 10–15 years, it may not comply with the BS 7671 18th Edition wiring regulations. Let us take a look — we’ll give you a straight answer, with no pressure to proceed.
Trust JJB Electrical Ltd – Experts in Safety
We’re a NAPIT Approved Contractor, Which? Trusted Trader, and fully insured for domestic and commercial works across Hertford, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, and Essex. We don’t use scare tactics — just honest advice and professional workmanship.
📞 Call 01992 276087
🌐 Visit www.jjb-electrical.co.uk
👉 Protect your home. Upgrade your fuse board in Hertford, Cheshunt and across Hertfordshire & Essex today.
