Multiple consumer units and master switch

[James_H]

Is there a requirement for a domestic install to have one master switch for the installation?

If I had a second consumer unit added above the existing one, due to lack of space for anything wider, would it be valid just to have their respective main switches? The second CU would be for RCD circuits, effectively providing a split load arrangement.

I do not have a main isolator at present (any idea what Seeboard's reaction is on being asked to fit one?).

An alternative could be to use one of the RCBs for the second unit, meaning the main CU switch would operate both?

I'm not doing any CU changing myself but I wanted to be sure of what is good practice before prompting the electrician.

Thanks,

James

 

[Qedelec]

It is good practice to install an isolator for the entire installation.
But this involves removing the main fuse + seals to do it safely.
The regs require that if you have two isolators, as you would have in two CCU's, then there must be labelling to indicate multiple means of isolation

 

[Adam_151]

Mk do some stacking kits for their units, one if the units just acts as a busbar extension for the first unit, and you just the the switch in the first one switching everything.

Think FWL has installed some of these, so he might be able to advise further if necessary

EDIT: Found the pic FWL posted: http://img52.imageshack.us/my.php?image=twinboard15sa.jpg

 

[Qedelec]

Thanx for that Adam, hadn't seem those before. Neat bit of wiring, City and Guilds?

 

[James_H]

Thanks for the quick replies.

I had seen the MK stacking kits, which could be a neat solution if not too wide. Although they don't come cheap compared to a single split load box, there is additional cost to me compared to keeping the existing unit for the non RCD side and having one new unit for the RCD.

Furthermore, the relatively new mini-CU from the garden circuit, currently removed from the spur off the ring final circuit, would be good to retain as a third CU to at least avoid garden trips knocking out all the sockets as well.

A main DP isolator seems a good way to go, with the individual CUs fed from a Henley after it.

James

 

[Adam_151]

Neat bit of wiring, City and Guilds?

Not mine, its FWL's, though when I'm qualified (i'm still trying to find an apprenticeship atm, so a long way to go!) I hope I will be able to do things neatly as well.

 

[Qedelec]

How far through you qual's are you?
What part of the country?
Mail me off list.