Surge protection
I have been told I need surge protection on my CU as I have a solar installation. do i need a new fuse box or can it be added?
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Replies from 8 tradespeople
Surge protection can just be added aslong as there is sufficient space and the consumer unit is new enough to have one
It can be added if there’s enough spare ways
No, you don’t automatically need a new consumer unit just because you have solar PV.
A surge protection device (SPD) can often be retrofitted to the existing CU, provided the existing board is suitable and there is enough space. The IET specifically says an SPD can be installed in an existing consumer unit where there is suitable physical space; otherwise it can be installed in a suitable enclosure adjacent to the CU.
It can be added
Added
If your fuse board is RCD/RCBO protected you won’t need a new fuse board. If so we could also install an SPD .
A surge Protection unit can be installed to an existing installation where required.
Yes, in many cases a Surge Protection Device (SPD) can be added without replacing the entire consumer unit. It depends on the make, model and available space within your existing fuse board. If there is no spare capacity or the consumer unit is outdated or unsuitable, replacing the consumer unit may be the better long-term solution. Properties with solar PV systems can benefit from surge protection, as it helps protect sensitive electrical equipment from transient overvoltages caused by lightning or switching events. A qualified electrician can inspect your existing installation and advise whether an SPD can be retrofitted or if a consumer unit upgrade would be the safest and most cost-effective option.
