We receive hundreds of questions from homeowners about their electrical systems. From basic queries about safety to more complex questions about regulations and costs, this comprehensive FAQ covers the most common questions we encounter. If you can't find your answer here, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Circuit Breakers and Fuse Boxes
Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?
Circuit breakers trip to protect your home from electrical fires and damage. Common causes include:
- Overloaded circuit – Too many appliances drawing power simultaneously
- Short circuit – A fault where live and neutral wires touch
- Ground fault – Current leaking to earth, often due to moisture
- Faulty appliance – A specific device causing the trip
- Worn breaker – Breakers can wear out over time
If your breaker trips frequently, our fuse box tripping service can diagnose and fix the problem.
What's the difference between a fuse box and consumer unit?
They're essentially the same thing – the central point where electricity enters your home and is distributed to circuits. "Fuse box" is an older term from when rewirable fuses were used. Modern "consumer units" use MCBs (miniature circuit breakers) and RCDs for better protection. If you still have an old fuse box with rewirable fuses, upgrading to a modern consumer unit significantly improves safety.
How do I reset a tripped breaker?
First, try to identify what caused the trip – unplug any appliances that were in use. Then locate the tripped breaker (it will be in the middle position or show a red indicator) and push it firmly to the OFF position, then back to ON. If it trips again immediately, there's likely a fault that needs professional investigation.
Safety and Testing
How often should I have my electrics checked?
Recommended frequencies for Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs):
- Owner-occupied homes: Every 10 years, or when buying/selling
- Rental properties: Every 5 years (legally required)
- After major work: Following any significant electrical changes
- When problems occur: If you notice any warning signs
Our EICR inspection service provides comprehensive assessment of your installation.
What is an RCD and how do I test it?
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a life-saving device that detects electrical faults and cuts power in milliseconds, preventing electric shocks. To test it, press the "T" or "Test" button on the device – it should trip immediately. Reset it by pushing the switch back up. Test monthly. If it doesn't trip when tested, it may be faulty and needs checking by an electrician.
Is my old wiring dangerous?
Not necessarily, but older wiring does carry higher risks. Warning signs include:
- Rubber or fabric-covered cables (pre-1960s)
- Lack of earthing on circuits
- Old round-pin sockets
- Frequent blown fuses or tripping
- Burning smells or discoloured outlets
If your property has original wiring from before the 1970s, we recommend an EICR to assess its condition.
DIY and Regulations
What electrical work can I do myself?
Safe DIY tasks for competent individuals include:
- Changing light bulbs and fuses
- Replacing damaged plugs
- Fitting plug tops to appliances
- Like-for-like replacement of light fittings (with power off)
- Replacing damaged flex on appliances
Work that should be done by qualified electricians includes adding circuits, replacing consumer units, bathroom electrical work, and outdoor installations.
Do I need building regulations approval for electrical work?
Under Part P of the Building Regulations, certain electrical work must either be done by a registered electrician or notified to building control. This includes new circuits, consumer unit changes, bathroom work, and outdoor installations. Using a registered electrician (NICEIC, NAPIT, etc.) means they can self-certify the work, saving you the hassle of building control notification.
What certificates should I receive after electrical work?
Depending on the work, you should receive:
- Electrical Installation Certificate – For new installations
- Minor Works Certificate – For small additions/alterations
- EICR – For inspection and testing
- Building Control notification – For notifiable work by registered electricians
Keep these documents safe – they're important for insurance and when selling your property.
Common Problems
Why are my lights flickering?
Occasional flickering might just be a loose bulb. Persistent flickering can indicate:
- Loose wiring connections
- Overloaded circuits
- Incompatible dimmer switches (especially with LEDs)
- Voltage fluctuations
- Faulty light fixture
If tightening the bulb doesn't help, have an electrician investigate – flickering can indicate serious wiring issues.
Why do I get a shock from my light switch?
Any electric shock, even a mild tingle, indicates a fault that needs immediate attention. Possible causes include faulty earthing, damaged wiring, or moisture ingress. Stop using the switch and call an electrician. This is a safety issue that shouldn't be ignored.
Why is my socket warm/hot?
Warm sockets indicate a problem – either overloading or a loose connection. A hot socket is dangerous and should be addressed immediately. Unplug everything from the socket and don't use it until an electrician has checked it. Overheating sockets can cause fires.
Half my house has no power – what should I do?
This usually means an RCD has tripped. Check your consumer unit for any switches in the down or middle position. If an RCD has tripped, try resetting it. If it trips again immediately, there's a fault on one of the circuits it protects. Our fault finding service can quickly identify and resolve the issue.
Costs and Quotes
How much does a rewire cost?
Rewiring costs vary significantly based on property size, accessibility, and finish requirements. As a rough guide for a 3-bedroom house:
- Basic rewire: £3,500-£5,500
- With consumer unit upgrade: £4,500-£6,500
- Including making good: £5,500-£8,000+
We provide detailed quotes after assessing your specific property.
How much does an EICR cost?
EICR costs depend on property size and number of circuits:
- 1-2 bedroom flat: £120-£180
- 3 bedroom house: £150-£220
- 4+ bedroom house: £200-£300
These are inspection costs only – any remedial work required is quoted separately.
Do electricians charge for quotes?
Most electricians, including us, provide free quotes for standard work. For complex projects requiring detailed assessment, there may be a survey fee that's typically deducted from the final bill if you proceed. Always clarify before booking a visit.
Specific Installations
Can I have a socket in my bathroom?
Standard sockets are not permitted in bathrooms due to the risk of water and electricity mixing. However, you can have:
- Shaver sockets (with isolation transformer)
- Sockets outside defined zones (typically 3m from bath/shower)
- Sockets for specific fixed appliances with appropriate protection
Bathroom electrical work has strict regulations and should always be done by a qualified electrician.
How long does EV charger installation take?
A straightforward EV charger installation typically takes 2-4 hours. However, if additional work is needed (consumer unit upgrade, long cable runs, earthing improvements), it may take a full day. Our EV charger installation service includes a survey to identify any additional requirements.
Can I add more sockets to a room?
Yes, additional sockets can usually be added by extending from existing circuits, provided the circuit has capacity. This is notifiable work under Part P if it involves new wiring in walls. A qualified electrician can assess your existing circuits and add sockets safely and compliantly.
Still Have Questions?
If your question isn't answered here, we're happy to help. Contact us by phone or email, or use our contact form to send your question. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours.
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