As your local, trusted electrician in Bristol, we often take calls from customers who have questions about their electrics and who value our expert advice.
A recurring question is “Do I need an AFDD consumer unit?” Our experienced electricians at Allied Electrical Services have put together this simple guide to tell you more about AFDDs and why you may need to upgrade your consumer unit to include AFDD protection.
What is an AFDD?
An AFDD (Arc Fault Detection Device) is designed to protect you and your property from an electrical fire caused by arcing within a circuit known as an arcing fault. This arcing creates an abnormal wave pattern which the AFDD is designed to detect. AFDDs are clever tech and can tell the difference between dangerous, abnormal arc wave patterns from those that can occur every day - usually when you unplug an electrical device.
AFDDs are similar in appearance to both the miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) and residual current device (RCD) that you will find in your consumer unit but provide a different kind of protection. AFDDs are now legally required in many Bristol properties including care homes and HMOs. They are also a highly recommended as a safety upgrade in all other properties.
What is an Arcing Fault?
An arcing fault occurs when an electrical discharge passes through the air as it jumps a gap in the circuit. This can occur when there is damage to the wiring in your Bristol property or when a loose connection allows the electrical current to seek a new path. An arcing fault can produce a lot of heat - up to 6000 degrees C! This intense heat can create a fire. An arcing fault can be slow to develop or create a problem very quickly, depending on the circumstances.
Where must an AFDD Consumer Unit be installed?
There are certain circumstances under which an AFDD must legally be installed. According to the 18th edition of the wiring regulations, AFDDs must be fitted at the origin of any single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket-outlets with a rated current not exceeding 32 A in the following premises:
- Higher Risk Residential Buildings - Any building that is over 18m or 6 storeys high
- Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
- Purpose built student accommodation
- Care homes
AFDD’s are also strongly recommended in buildings with thatched roofs, buildings with a wooden structure (such as barns) and anywhere with sleeping accommodation including hotels, inns and bed and breakfasts.
Why do I need an AFDD Consumer unit?
For many of our Bristol based customers an AFDD will be just a recommendation, so why do we think it is so important that you install an AFDD consumer unit? The electrical wiring in a home is mostly hidden from view meaning that if an arcing fault develops it will be hard for you to notice. An AFDD will keep you and your family safe from the risk of electrical fire and give you peace of mind. Most reputable electricians will recommend an AFDD is fitted in your home as it provides the highest-level electrical safety for your family.
If you would like to know more about installing an AFDD consumer unit, our friendly electricians at Allied Electrical Services in Bristol will be happy to help. We are fully qualified, and NICEIC registered and come highly recommended. Contact us today.
