shower to fuse box

[geedub69]

hi there , i think i am almost there but just want some expert advise , i have a 10.5kw shower ,plan on using 10mm cable , i will be getting a 45amp switch ( pull cord socket / switch ) then on the fuse box side of things i will need to fit a 45amp trip switch ! is this right so far ? or should an rcd be fitted aswell and is it a must ?......all advise greatly recieved , will try my best to answer any questions

 

[paulh53]

Your pullcord switch & Mcb should be rated at 50 amps, As 10.5kw shower would draw 45.65 amps on 230v
A shower should also be supplied through a 30ma RCD

 

[ban-all-sheds]

You should regard an RCD as a must. If your CU doesn't have one then you should think about having the whole thing replaced, but in the meantime fit a standalone one for the shower, or use an RCBO if you can get one.

As for the switch rating - check the small print of the shower specs - often 10.5kW is the rating at 240V, not 230V, which is under 45A.

 

[geedub69]

thanks for the speedy reply ! so i guess with opting for the better shower i have slightly misjudged , so i will be getting a 50 amp now !do have have a rough idea of how much 30ma RCD and the pullcord switch & Mcb would cost ? dont need to give prices on these , i know this isnt homebase after all

 

[ban-all-sheds]

homebase

Wash your mouth!

 

[geedub69]

thanks for the advice guys ! i will be going shoping tomorrow , i dont know when i will start the wiring , as its a downstairs bathroom , with flooring fitted ,so running the cable is the nightmare at the mo , but i will think of something , be back if i need your help

 

[mapj1]

for a keen idea of pricing try the websites of
www.tlc-direct .co.uk,

www.screwfix.com or
www.toolstation.co.uk (free postage at the moment)
all of these do the bits you need.
you will find the other place relativley dear.
best regards M.

 

[theshogun]

A shower should also be supplied through a 30ma RCD

A shower does not need to be on an RCD if the relevant earth loop impedance is satisfied to provide disconnection in relation to the fuse/mcb characteristics.
It is though always a good idea for added safety, but not a must.

 

[plugwash]

the IEE wiring regs don't require a RCD but i would consider any spark who didn't a cowboy.

your putting one of the highest power applianes in your house in an area where you are spraying your naked body with water out of the appliance and (depending on the cubicle design) you may not be able to quickly get out of the way.

 

[geedub69]

hi there i have a problem !

the mcb in my cu is smaller than the ones that i can find available locally !
if you know where i can find the ones like i have please help

smaller as in size not amps

 

[geedub69]

right this is what im sure i need : a MEM QEB 45A mcb !

does anyone know where i can find one please ?

 

[mapj1]

can you post a photo - the part number does not look complete, but it might be recognised.
is it one a bit like this
the MEM 451QEB ?
http://www.thefusecompany.com/fuse.php/products_id/459
? if so, they stock it...
M.

 

[geedub69]

yes thats the one ! thanks , not cheap are they , oh well needs must ! i didnt have the part number thats why its a bit vague , i need one for installing a shower


ps. i would have happily posted a pic if only i knew how

 

[paulh53]

A shower should also be supplied through a 30ma RCD

A shower does not need to be on an RCD if the relevant earth loop impedance is satisfied to provide disconnection in relation to the fuse/mcb characteristics.
It is though always a good idea for added safety, but not a must.

That's why the word "should" was used