Upgrading electric shower - need for cable upgrade or not

[tramsden]

I need to improve my shower. I'm considering replacing a 8.5Kw triton t80 with a 10.8Kw mira orbis. The current professionally install has a 40A RCD, would I be ok just to replace the fuse to a 45A RCD and use the existing wiring. I have read that some times this is ok on shorter runs. The consumer is high on ground floor toilet wall, whilst the shower is on first floor and the cable enters bathroom from ceiling in to partition wall.

Please bear with my multiple post I'm gathering knowledge to find the best solution for my situation.

Tony

 

[muggles]

Depends on the size and length of the existing cable, but for that kind of power jump it may well need upgrading

 

[wingcoax]

To start with. what size cable do you have now? You should also be aware that this work (replacing mcb in fuseboard(CU)and cable) is notifiable. If you do need to upgrade the cable(should be 10mm t and e) you would probably be cheaper using a "Qualified" sparks.

 

[Agile]

Whilst I appreciate that the cable/MCB upgrade should be done by a qualified electrician, I dont see how that can ever be cheaper than an illegal DIY job!

Joe 90

 

[1john]

Whilst I appreciate that the cable/MCB upgrade should be done by a qualified electrician, I dont see how that can ever be cheaper than an illegal DIY job!

Joe 90

Cheaper still to do it illegally and not upgrade the cable







(not advisable, highly dangerous)

 

[riveralt]

I need to improve my shower. I'm considering replacing a 8.5Kw triton t80 with a 10.8Kw mira orbis.

You will probably need a 10mm^2 T&E cable depending on length of the run and whether the cable goes through insulation with a (45Amp MCB as per manufacturers instructions)
You might get away with 6mm^2 T&E with a maximum current carrying capacity is 47Amps when clipped direct but best to stick with 10mm

current professionally install has a 40A RCD, would I be ok just to replace the fuse to a 45A RCD and use the existing wiring.

They don't make a 45A RCD - I think you mean MCB - but you will need the circuit protected by a 30mA RCD.