Consumer unit install

[rorie]

Hi folks

Most consumer units i've seen are wired with cables coming from above so its easier to keep the wiring neat and tidy.

My cables are coming from below, so in an effort to keep the wiring neat, i'm wondering whats best / standard practice to do.

Can i run the cables in behind the MCBs (behind the mounting bar)? There is plenty of room, but not sure if this would be deemed acceptable?

 

[brightspark]

no problem top bottom or back just seal the entry points to fire proof and use mains gland for the meter tails . a bit of info here http://electrical.theiet.org/wiring-matters/55/consumer-units/index.cfm

 

[Robotstar5]

Here you go, wires in through the bottom and up behind the mounting bar...

 

[rorie]

That's the photo I've been hunting for online to confirm my intentions! Thanks!

In regards to sealing... I have used glands before when wiring in conduit, but not sure whats best when I have a number of cables entering the box from the same knock out ports?

The cables are not in conduit. I assume the gland is only beneficial if the cable is within conduit?

The box is recessed into the eaves of my roof truss. All the cables run along in this space and then enter the recessed box (about 4 inches of exposed wire) before entering the consumer unit its self. The 'exposed' wires then have a bit of MDF in front of them to protect from physical damage.

 

[rorie]

Can anybody help with what type of grommet / glands I should be buying?

Thanks

 

[Wendelspanswick]

If it's just a bunch of cables entering the CU directly than put any suitable grommet or grommet strip round the knockout and squirt some intumescent sealant in if you feel the need.

 

[rorie]

Ah ok, I thought there was going to be some fancy grommet with an internal sealant or something. I can work with that though.
Cheers