How to isolate CU from mains

[davidr]

Hi - I want to add a new ring and MCB to my existing Hagar CU. I have spare slots for this and understand what's involved.

My question is how to isolate the CU before opening and working on it. I assume that just switching off the master red switch in the CU is insufficient for complete safety.

Looking at my meter cupboard there doesn't appear to be a master whole house on/off switch. House built in 1999.

Appreciate your advice on this

Thanks

 

[Adam_151]

Firstly, are you sure you are competant to do this work?

And secondly, it'd be the board isolator you'd normally open for this, there isn't normally an upstream isolator!

 

[davidr]

Probably not - I'll get an electrican to do it - thanks for the advice

 

[plugwash]

My question is how to isolate the CU before opening and working on it. I assume that just switching off the master red switch in the CU is insufficient for complete safety.

Provided the CU is modern and well wired turning off the main switch in the CU should be sufficiant. But you should always take great care when first opening a CU in case the wiring is done sloppy and/or guards are missing.

 

[Taylortwocities]

Adding a new circuit is notifiable so your plan to use an electrician is a good one!