Changing a fuse in a consumer unit
A consumer unit divides and distributes the mains electricity supply into the various different circuits which run throughout a property. Within this unit there will be a number of fuses or miniature circuit breakers (MCBs are usually found in newer consumer units) for each individual circuit found in the property. These fuse and circuit breakers protect each individual circuit from power surges, automatically disconnecting the power supply to that circuit.
Before Starting: Before trying to reset a circuit at the consumer unit, check to see if any of the appliances on that circuit are causing it to blow. Unplug all appliances and check to see if they work on a circuit which still has power. If so address this issue before resetting your consumer unit.
A consumer unit with MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers)
Tools and Materials:
A torch.
- Switch off the main power switch on the consumer unit.
- Identify the MBC which has tripped. This will usually be the switch or lever which is in the opposite position to all the other switches or levers apart from the mains switch.
- Reset the circuit by flicking the switch to the same position as all the other MCBs.
- Turn on the main power switch.
- If the MCB automatically resets it self there is a fault in the circuit which will require a qualified electrician's attention.
A consumer unit with fuses
There are various types of fuse carriers. The two described are cartridge fuse carriers and wire fuse carriers.
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