How Long Does It Take to Upgrade a Fuseboard? 

Your fuseboard is the central hub of your home’s electrical system, controlling power distribution and protecting your home from faults. Over time, older fuseboards can become outdated, struggle with modern electricity demands, or even pose safety risks.

Many homeowners wonder: “How long does it take to upgrade a fuseboard?”

At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we’ve upgraded hundreds of Staffordshire homes, helping homeowners enjoy safe, reliable, and future-ready electrical systems. This blog will walk you through the process, timelines, and what to expect from a professional upgrade — in clear, everyday language.

Why Fuseboard Upgrades Are Essential?

A modern fuseboard offers safety, compliance, and convenience. Some common signs that you may need an upgrade include:

• Buzzing or crackling sounds from the board
• Frequent tripping of circuits
• Smells of burning or scorch marks
• Planning to add EV chargers, solar panels, or new appliances

Upgrading your fuseboard ensures your home complies with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations and meets the demands of modern living. Outdated boards are a major contributor to UK house fires each year.

Typical Duration of a Fuseboard Upgrade

The time it takes to upgrade a fuseboard varies depending on property size, complexity, and existing wiring.

Average timelines:

• Standard UK home: 4–6 hours
• Larger homes or multi-phase systems: 6–8 hours
• Older properties with outdated wiring: May take a full day

Power will be temporarily switched off during the upgrade, but your electrician will plan the work to minimise disruption.

Step-by-Step Fuseboard Upgrade Process

1. Initial Assessment: The electrician inspects your existing board, circuits, and wiring to determine the safest and most efficient upgrade plan.
2. Power Shutdown: Electricity is switched off to protect your home and the installer.
3. Removal of Old Fuseboard: The old consumer unit, fuses, and breakers are carefully removed.
4. Installation of New Fuseboard: A modern unit with RCD protection, improved breakers, and safety features is installed.
5. Testing and Certification: The system is thoroughly tested for faults, and a certificate is issued for compliance and safety.

Factors That Can Affect the Timeline

While most upgrades take a few hours, some factors can extend the process:

• Size of Property: More circuits take longer to connect.
• Condition of Existing Wiring: Older wiring may require additional work.
• Additional Services: Integration with EV chargers, solar panels, or extensions.
• Access Issues: Hard-to-reach boards or cramped spaces may slow progress.

Even with these factors, professional electricians like MAKSE Electrical & Renewables ensure a smooth, safe, and efficient upgrade.

Benefits of a Modern Fuseboard

Upgrading your fuseboard is more than a safety measure it brings tangible benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: Protects against shocks, overloads, and fires.
• Reliable Power Supply: Supports multiple modern appliances simultaneously.
• Future-Ready: Ready for EV chargers, solar panels, or home extensions.
• Legal Compliance: Meets UK wiring regulations and passes EICR inspections.
• Peace of Mind: Certified, professionally installed, and reliable for years to come.

FAQs

1: Can I upgrade my fuseboard myself?

No. Upgrades must be completed by a qualified electrician for safety and compliance.

2: Will I be without electricity?

Yes, but only temporarily, usually 4–6 hours for standard homes.

3: How often should a fuseboard be replaced?

Typically, every 25–40 years, or sooner if the board is outdated or fails an EICR.

4: How much does it cost?

Prices vary depending on property size and complexity, but consider it an investment in safety and compliance.

Why Choose MAKSE Electrical & Renewables?

At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we provide:

• Fully qualified NICEIC-approved electricians
• Professional fuseboard upgrades with RCD protection
• Clear pricing with no hidden costs
• Post-installation testing and certification
• Additional electrical services, including EV charger installation, solar panel electrical work, and rewiring

We prioritise safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, ensuring your home’s electrical system is reliable and modern.

• Electrical faults contribute to over 20,000 house fires annually in the UK
• Homes with outdated consumer units are 30% more likely to experience electrical hazards
• Modern RCD-protected boards reduce electric shock risk by over 60%

Conclusion

Upgrading your fuseboard is essential for safety, reliability, and future-proofing your home. Knowing how long the process takes helps you plan and ensures minimal disruption.

Whether you have an older home, plan to install an EV charger, or want peace of mind, a modern fuseboard is a smart investment.

MAKSE Electrical & Renewables provides professional, safe, and compliant fuseboard upgrades across the Staffordshire. Protect your home and family today. Book your fuseboard upgrade now.