Overheating Fuse Board
A hot consumer unit is a fire hazard. Don't ignore heat, burning smells, or discolouration - get it checked immediately.
Solutions Ltd
Burning smell or visible damage?
Turn off the main switch and call us immediately - this is a fire risk
Signs Your Fuse Board Is Overheating
Recognise these warning signs and know how quickly to act on each.
What Causes Fuse Board Overheating?
Understanding the cause helps you understand the urgency and likely solution.
Loose Connections
Poorly tightened terminals create resistance, generating heat. Common in older boards or poor installations.
Overloaded Circuits
Circuits carrying more current than rated cause components to overheat. Often seen in properties with modern demands on old wiring.
Faulty Components
MCBs, RCDs, or bus bars can fail internally, creating heat even under normal load.
Undersized Board
Older boards may not be rated for modern electrical demands from appliances, EVs, or home offices.
What We'll Do When We Arrive
Immediate Assessment
- Thermal imaging to identify hot spots
- Check all connections for tightness
- Inspect for damage or discolouration
- Assess circuit loading
Repair or Replace
- Tighten loose connections
- Replace faulty MCBs or RCDs
- Full consumer unit replacement if needed
- Test and certify all work
Typical Costs
Diagnosis & Repair
From £85 plus VAT
Loose connections, minor fixes
Full RCBO Board Upgrade
From £499 plus VAT
Individual circuit protection as standard
Component Replacement
£80-150 plus VAT
Faulty MCB or RCD replacement
Overheating Fuse Board Questions
Why is my fuse board getting hot?
Common causes include loose connections creating resistance, overloaded circuits drawing excessive current, faulty MCBs or RCDs, poor quality components, or an undersized board for your property's electrical demand. All cause heat buildup and are fire risks.
Is a hot fuse board dangerous?
Yes, it's a serious fire hazard. Electrical connections should run cool. Heat indicates a fault that could lead to melted plastic, damaged wiring, or fire. Don't ignore it - get it checked immediately.
Should I turn off the power?
If the board is very hot, smells burnt, or shows signs of damage, turn off the main switch and call us. Don't touch individual breakers if the unit appears damaged - wait for professional assessment.
How much does a new consumer unit cost?
A consumer unit replacement starts from £499 plus VAT for a standard single-phase board. Three-phase boards start from £1,500 plus VAT. This includes the unit, installation, testing, and certification.
Get Help With Overheating Fuse Board
Related Pages
Don't Risk a Fire
An overheating fuse board is one of the most common causes of electrical fires. If you've noticed heat, smells, or damage, call us now.