What is the 18th edition consumer unit?
The 18th edition consumer unit is a new style of electrical wiring that first became available in 2011. The 18th edition consumer unit has the ability to handle more electricity than previous types of wiring and with this comes better insulation, meaning there are fewer fire hazards around your home.
If you have 18th edition cabling installed at your property, it’s important that you take extra care when purchasing certain electrical appliances. Some old devices may not be compatible or safe with 16A sockets which could lead to overheating or even fires within your home if they’re left plugged into 18th Edition sockets for too long!
Homeowners will be faced with 18th edition consumer unit requirements soon, and it is important to know what these changes mean for your home. 18th edition consumer units are more stringent than previous versions of the law, meaning that if you want to sell or rent your property after July 1st, 2018, there are specific updates you need to make. These tips should help get your house ready for the 18th edition:
Make sure all appliances comply with 18-edition standards: 18th edition consumer units now require a maximum of 30 amps, and if you want to sell or rent your property after July 2018 then 18-edition standards must be adhered to. This means that any appliances which are not 18- Edition compliant will need updating.
Include 18th Edition RCD protection for bathrooms: The 18th edition requires bathroom circuits in rented properties with baths/showers – but only those with electric showers as opposed to mains fed ones — have an extra requirement called Residual Current Device (RCD) protection installed also known as earth leakage circuit breakers (ELCBs).
Provide adequate lighting wherever possible: One thing the 18th edition has done is improved safety by including more light switches throughout the home. Wherever it is possible to do so, 18th edition compliant properties should have at least one switch per room if not more than that in larger rooms such as living rooms and kitchens.
Replace water pipes and fixtures as needed: 18th edition compliant homes are now expected to have water pipes that meet higher standards for leakage. 18th edition ready properties will also need to have replaced bathroom fittings such as showers, baths, and sinks if these do not meet the 18th edition guidelines.
Upgrade insulation in attics: 18th edition compliant properties are also expected to have improved insulation in attics. 18th edition ready homes should include more layers of insulation, thicker walls and ceilings, and better roofing materials than non-compliant properties.
In conclusion, 18th edition homes should be ready to provide 18th edition compliant amenities such as an 18-inch barrier around the entire perimeter of a property.