Consumer unit RCD / new unit?

[lotus_esprit_s1]

I have an old 6way consumer unit with a second additional 2 way consumer unit next to it which has just one outside led light and water tank immersion heater on it. The RCD test /reset on this additional 2 way unit got pressed inadvertently the other week and now will not reset, even with the two circuits switched off (I presume as both circuits switched off this is a faulty RCD unit?).

I can buy a new plug Wylex RcD for this additional consumer unit however as they are both plastic and 18th edition now requires metal clad units would buying one new 8 way metal clad unit be the best way to sort this out and ditch the two separate units at the same time?

Thanks

 

[Agroshield]

If you go the new CU route and choose an eight way one, what happens in a year's time if you need another breaker?

If you decide to replace it, I would choose one with one, two or three spare ways to allow for future expansion.

 

[The Artilleryman]

Just a thought, changing a consumer unit is notifiable work under building regs.

 

[Chippie]

Who is going to know?
BR expect folk to be honest ?

 

[brightspark]

screwfix do the bg twin rcd complete db for not a lot of money . as for been notifiable its your own property and it doesnt matter. all i will say is though as long as you feel competent to do it and test the wiring and dont get blown up just do it

 

[Bornfree]

I have an old 6way consumer unit with a second additional 2 way consumer unit next to it which has just one outside led light and water tank immersion heater on it. The RCD test /reset on this additional 2 way unit got pressed inadvertently the other week and now will not reset, even with the two circuits switched off (I presume as both circuits switched off this is a faulty RCD unit?).

I can buy a new plug Wylex RcD for this additional consumer unit however as they are both plastic and 18th edition now requires metal clad units would buying one new 8 way metal clad unit be the best way to sort this out and ditch the two separate units at the same time?

Thanks

An earth - neutral fault will trip an RCD without the circuit being switched on.

 

[Chippie]

An earth - neutral fault will trip an RCD without the circuit being switched on.

Defo, that’s why I installed a triple pole isolating switch in my garage, so I can work on the garage wiring without it tripping the house rcd…( found out by experience..)

 

[MetalMonkey]

screwfix do the bg twin rcd complete db for not a lot of money . as for been notifiable its your own property and it doesnt matter. all i will say is though as long as you feel competent to do it and test the wiring and dont get blown up just do it

Well I suppose, technically as it is notifiable it does still need to be reported to building control. But at the same time, realistically, would you grass yourself up if it wasn't....
I would imagine the problem could be if there was an accident or a fire.

To the OP -
I would echo that, although it really isn't that complicated, if you don't feel fully confident, and you can't make a good job - don't risk it. It isn't worth it.

Also consider carefully what your plan of action is going to be regarding the meter tails.

To do it properly you need the DNO to come out and pull the fuse.
Alternatively, you could try to ask them to install an isolator in advance, then you can easily and safely isolate your old CU before swapping it.

You could pretend the seal fell off and do it yourself - but do be careful as it is not unknown for them to fall to bits when they are pulled. If it is the old style metal clad and ceramic one, I wouldn't risk it.
Pulling the fuse can be very dangerous - and ensure that there is no load on the system before you do.

I'm sure some people have even moved them live. I absolutely never have. - but don't be tempted, one slip and it is game over.

Whatever you do, if you can plan to install an isolator between the service and the CU as part of the project, then do so - they are not expensive and future you will be grateful.

 

[jimbo84]

I have an old 6way consumer unit with a second additional 2 way consumer unit next to it which has just one outside led light and water tank immersion heater on it. The RCD test /reset on this additional 2 way unit got pressed inadvertently the other week and now will not reset, even with the two circuits switched off (I presume as both circuits switched off this is a faulty RCD unit?).

I can buy a new plug Wylex RcD for this additional consumer unit however as they are both plastic and 18th edition now requires metal clad units would buying one new 8 way metal clad unit be the best way to sort this out and ditch the two separate units at the same time?

Thanks

Definitely better to install a new metal clad CU with RCBOs and surge protection inline with current regs. However there'd be nothing wrong with sourcing and installing a replacement RCD, it'd be worth replacing it with a Type A RCD to avoid any blinding of the most likely AC type you'll have fitted now. It is most likely the RCD faulty in this scenario however you'd be a bit narked to buy a replacement and have it tripping so it's be better to test the wiring before forking out for a replacement.

 

[Turbo]

Leave the 6 way one in place & add a new 4 or 6 way beside it, if you have room. No need to replace the old one if everything is working ok.

 

[Bornfree]

Well I suppose, technically as it is notifiable it does still need to be reported to building control. But at the same time, realistically, would you grass yourself up if it wasn't....
I would imagine the problem could be if there was an accident or a fire.

To the OP -
I would echo that, although it really isn't that complicated, if you don't feel fully confident, and you can't make a good job - don't risk it. It isn't worth it.

Also consider carefully what your plan of action is going to be regarding the meter tails.

I'm sure some people have even moved them live. I absolutely never have. - but don't be tempted, one slip and it is game over

That's the electrical equivalent of open heart surgery. Deep breaths and a very steady hand required.

 

[Nick DV]

Alternatively, you could try to ask them to install an isolator in advance, then you can easily and safely isolate your old CU before swapping it.

Mr Brightspark gave me this advice when I did mine a while ago. I called them and said that when my smart meter was installed an isolator wasn't, they said it should have been and sent an engineer out within a few days to install one FOC.

I installed one of these https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/CPSDDS10111AMSdashP01.html and exchanged one of the breakers for a 32amp type 'C'

 

[lotus_esprit_s1]

Thankyou for all replies. Luckily I do have a DNO fitted isolator after the meter which should make it easier!!

 

[Nick DV]

Thankyou for all replies. Luckily I do have a DNO fitted isolator after the meter which should make it easier!!

Excellent, job's a goodun' then