Does anyone know if I can just replace all my Mcbs in my consumer unit with Rcbo`s. Is it a straight swap or are there any issues involved?
Electrics
- Thread starter Archiethedog
- Start date
I think....and maybe a sparky can clarify for me...
If you do the work yourself, you must use the safe isolation process and then get your local council out to test, inspect and certify...
Alternativly, and the prefered option, get a qualified sparky in who will do the job right and test it off for you...
youre messing with some high voltage at that part of your electrical system and i rkn you could do yourself some harm if you make a mistake
J
Johnmelad502
No higher there than in any other part, aside from a bit of volt drop. Having 240V instead of 235V, say, isn't going make any difference.
S
sparkyspike
Apart from the issues regarding competent persons and your ability to complete the job, one practical issue is what kind of consumer unit you have.
If it is a basic board loaded with modern breakers with no RCD protection built in, then it is a simple change over. The neutrals which are in the neutral bar are wired into the RCBO and the flying blue lead from the RCBO is then connected back into the neutral bar.
Even a split RCD board can be upgraded to include RCBOs.
Using an electrician to do this will not only ensure that it is done safely and will not involve LABC fees, but will also sort out any problems revealed by fitting RCDs. Earth leakage faults may be present which are not currently being detected. An electrician will be able to deal with any problems which may arise.
If it is a basic board loaded with modern breakers with no RCD protection built in, then it is a simple change over. The neutrals which are in the neutral bar are wired into the RCBO and the flying blue lead from the RCBO is then connected back into the neutral bar.
Even a split RCD board can be upgraded to include RCBOs.
Using an electrician to do this will not only ensure that it is done safely and will not involve LABC fees, but will also sort out any problems revealed by fitting RCDs. Earth leakage faults may be present which are not currently being detected. An electrician will be able to deal with any problems which may arise.
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