In the evolving landscape of electrical installations, the choice of consumer units plays a pivotal role in ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency. Among the myriad of brands available, FuseBox has rapidly emerged as a preferred choice for many UK electricians and contractors. This article delves into the factors contributing to FuseBox's growing popularity and why it stands out in the competitive market of consumer units.

Fusebox consumer unit with RCBOs

Innovative Design and Installer-Friendly Features

FuseBox has garnered acclaim for its thoughtful design, prioritizing both functionality and ease of installation. Key features include:

  • Ample Wiring Space: Generous internal space facilitates straightforward and efficient wiring, accommodating both mini (shown in the image above) and standard height RCBOs. This design consideration reduces installation time and potential errors.
  • Removable and Raised DIN Rail: Simplifies the mounting of devices, allowing for a more organized and accessible setup.
  • Convenient Knockouts: Round knockouts on all sides, along with large rectangular knockouts on the rear, provide flexibility in cable entry points, adapting to various installation scenarios.

These installer-centric features have been well-received within the professional community, enhancing the overall efficiency of electrical installations.

FuseBox consumer unit with RCBOs

Compliance with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations

Adherence to the latest safety standards is paramount in electrical installations. FuseBox consumer units are designed in compliance with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), incorporating essential safety components such as:

  • Surge Protection Devices (SPDs): The most popular FuseBox consumer units come equipped and fitted with a Type 2 SPD, safeguarding electrical systems against transient overvoltages caused by lightning strikes or switching operations.
  • Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent (RCBOs): Offering both overcurrent and earth fault protection, RCBOs enhance the safety and reliability of the electrical installation. With the more affordable cost of these devices, users are now opting to individually protect each circuit with an RCBO.

This commitment to compliance ensures that installations not only meet regulatory requirements but also offer enhanced circuit protection to end-users.

Positive Feedback from the Electrical Community

The reputation of FuseBox is further solidified by positive testimonials from electricians who have firsthand experience with the brand. For instance, a professional electrician noted on an industry forum:

"Another vote for FuseBox here, used quite a few of them in past 4 to 5 months, decent quality overall, and the price is extremely keen compared to Hager." Source

"Fuse Box consumer units are genuinely one of the best products I've work with. Originally I purchased one to save a client as this was the cheapest DB I could find. I have not installed anything else since." Source

"Fitted these in new Consumer Unit instead of Split Load Rcd Board, more control over individual circuits, compact & neat." Source

Such endorsements highlight the brand's ability to deliver quality products that meet the practical needs of professionals in the field. The general feedback about this brand is that once you've used it once, you want go back to using another brand.

Bi-Directional RCBOs - The Futureproof Choice

​FuseBox's new 6kA Bi-Directional Mini RCBOs are specifically designed for renewable energy systems, such as home EV chargers and solar installations, where power flow can be bidirectional. These devices detect fault currents in both directions - from source to load and vice versa - providing comprehensive protection against overloads, short circuits, and earth leakage.

They offer Type A-AC and pulsating DC protection up to 6mA, are available in current ratings from 6A to 40A with B and C type tripping curves, and feature a compact design measuring 85mm high and 18mm wide, facilitating easier installation and saving space in consumer units.

Bi-Directional MINI RCBOs

Comparative Advantage Over Established Brands

While established brands like Hager and Wylex have long been staples in the market, FuseBox has carved out its niche by offering comparable, if not superior, quality at a more accessible price point. The inclusion of features such as factory-fitted SPDs and user-friendly designs provides added value, making FuseBox a compelling choice for both new installations and retrofit projects.

Conclusion

FuseBox's ascent in the realm of consumer units is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and understanding of installer needs. By combining user-friendly features with strict adherence to current regulations and offering cost-effective solutions, FuseBox has rightfully earned its place as a preferred brand among UK electricians and contractors.