Is Your Fuse Board Up to UK Standards?

Whether you’re planning a renovation, selling your property, or simply want peace of mind, upgrading your fuse board (now called a consumer unit) can be one of the most important electrical decisions you make. At JJB Electrical Ltd, we’ve replaced hundreds of outdated boards across Hertford, Hertfordshire and Essex, and the message is always the same: your fuse board is the heart of your home’s electrical safety.

Why Your Old Fuse Board Might Be a Problem

Many homes in Hertford and the surrounding areas still have older-style fuse boxes with rewirable fuses, no RCD protection, or limited circuit separation. These units were designed for a time before today’s heavy electrical loads — and they simply can’t offer the protection modern homes require. Some warning signs your fuse board is outdated:

• No RCDs protecting your sockets or lights
• Fuse wire instead of miniature circuit breakers (MCBs)
• Buzzing, discolouration, or heat marks
• Limited space for future circuits (like EV chargers or solar panels)
• No labelling or clear circuit identification

If you’ve spotted any of these issues in your Hertford property, it’s time to consider a consumer unit upgrade.

What Makes a Fuse Board “Up to Standard”?

The latest consumer units comply with the 18th Edition Amendment 2 of the BS 7671 wiring regulations. Here’s what that means in practice:

• RCBO protection: Every circuit has its own dedicated safety switch
• RCDs: Life-saving devices that trip if a fault occurs
• SPDs (Surge Protection Devices): Protect your appliances from voltage spikes
• Labelling & futureproofing: Room for smart upgrades and new installations
• Metal enclosure: Fire-resistant casing to contain faults

When we upgrade a consumer unit in Hertford, Hertfordshire, or Essex, we ensure your home is future-proofed for modern demands like EV chargers, solar, and high-load appliances.

What’s Involved in a Fuse Board Upgrade?

At JJB Electrical, a typical fuse board replacement in Hertford takes around half a day. Here’s what you can expect:

• Electrical safety check (EICR) – we assess your wiring for suitability (pre-assessment)
• Isolation and safe removal of the old fuse board
• Installation of the new 18th Edition consumer unit
• Thorough testing of every circuit
• Certification & notification to building control (Part P compliant)

Do You Need a New Consumer Unit?

Not every home does — but here are scenarios where we strongly recommend it:

• You’re updating your kitchen or bathroom
• You’re adding new high-load circuits (e.g. electric shower, EV charger)
• Your current board has faults or failed an EICR in Hertford
• You’ve had unexplained tripping or power outages
• Your property insurance requires modern safety measures

Customer Story – Epping, Essex

“Jamie and Dan replaced our old fuse board after an EICR found multiple safety issues. The whole process was painless. They explained everything clearly, left the place spotless, and even labelled all the circuits so we know what’s what! Highly recommended.” — Mrs. Taylor, Epping

We’ve carried out similar consumer unit upgrades in Hertford, where many older homes still rely on outdated rewirable fuse boxes. Customers are always relieved once their home is protected to the latest standards.

Peace of Mind Isn’t Expensive

Modern consumer units are an investment in your family’s safety — and usually cost far less than a new kitchen appliance or holiday. If you’re unsure whether your Hertford fuse board is up to scratch, we’ll carry out a quick assessment and give you honest advice — no pressure, just straightforward recommendations. Call the Trusted Experts in Hertford, Hertfordshire & Essex At JJB Electrical Ltd, we’re fully NAPIT-approved, Which? Trusted Traders, and rated 5 stars on Google. We don’t upsell — we inform.

📞 Call us today on 01992 276087
🌐 Visit www.jjb-electrical.co.uk 
👉 Protect your home. Upgrade your fuse board in Hertford, Hertfordshire or Essex today.