What is an AFDD consumer unit?

An electrical arc or arc discharge takes place between material such as air or gas within a circuit, potentially resulting in fires or explosions, accelerated by combustible materials. The arcing or arcing fault creates an abnormal wave pattern which is detected by an AFDD.

Similar to RCDs (residual current devices) or MCBs (mini circuit breakers) typically found in consumer units, an AFDD is much more sensitive to arcing faults making them imperative in higher risk residential buildings.

Why might I need an AFDD consumer unit?

Under the IET Wiring Regulations, an AFDD consumer unit is assigned to specific buildings such as care homes, student accommodation and HMO’s.

Additional buildings where an AFDD consumer unit must be considered are:

• Hotels
• Hostels.
• Buildings with thatched roofs or timber framework.
• Buildings over 18 meters in height.

If you’re a property owner in Axminster, Tyne Electrical Services highly recommends installing an AFDD consumer unit where sleeping accommodation or combustible materials are present.

If you’re unsure and need to speak to one of the professionals, get in touch with us.

Benefits of an AFDD consumer unit

Years of experience in the trade has taught us one important fact when it comes to an AFDD consumer unit and that's the enhanced safety features.

When clients in Axminster ask us “what is an AFDD consumer unit?” Our go to answer is to discuss the fire prevention you gain from an AFDD consumer unit, especially in detecting hazardous arc faults which would otherwise go unnoticed. An AFDD quickly cuts off the power to the circuit if an arc fault is detected, preventing disastrous fires.

Individuals residing in specific buildings such as hostels, HMO’s and care homes can have the peace of mind that early detection devices are in place should an incident occur.

As with most electrical faults, damage or loose connections are not always visible leading to an escalation and potential hazard. An AFDD consumer unit will provide early and effective detection of arc faults, even faults absent to the naked eye.

Tyne Electrical services in Axminster

The team are NICEIC approved electricians, working with all industry standards and safety regulations. The team adheres to BS7671, the standards set for electrical installations such as AFDD consumer unit installation.

When homeowners in Axminster ask us “What is an AFDD consumer unit?” or “should we consider an AFDD consumer unit?” our answer is always yes!

Although AFDD consumer units are not mandated in homes in Axminster, an AFDD consumer unit will keep your home protected from electrical fires.  Giving you the added peace of mind that safety devices will kick in when you’re least prepared, for example when your household is fast asleep at night.

As a reputable and professional trader, it’s our job to encourage the highest level of safety at your Axminster based property.

Alongside “What is an AFDD consumer unit?” you might have many more questions to ask so do call Tyne Electrical services today. The team are always happy to discuss the electrical services we provide in Axminster.