On 13 Nov, 18:22, John Rumm wrote:
sm_jamieson wrote:
Any comments on the following, a list of circuits for my CU
replacement.
It seems that even a 16-slot would be too small, given the amount of
slots used by two double-pole RCDs and another double-pole switch for
the non-RCD bus.

Normally when they say 16 way, that is the number of free ways with the
RCDs/Switch in place. So if the board is a three way split with some
switch ways and two lots of RCD protected ways, then the 16 ways will be
over and above the six occupied by the switch and pair of RCDs.

OK, would that be the case with this - it looks like an empty case ?
http://www.screwfix.com/prods/30776


Proposed CU circuits:

lights downstairs
lights 1st floor
lights loft

If "loft" is just a loft, then no need for a separate circuit. If its a
converted loft with several rooms, then that is different.

Will be converted as next major job !


sockets downstairs (not kitchen)
sockets 1st floor
sockets loft

see comment above/

sockets kitchen ring (RCD)
sockets kitchen radial (non-RCD / fridge)
sockets kitchen cooker (30A ?)

Did you mean "sockets" there?

I meant a standard cooker circuit.


lights outside
sockets outside

These would be better of on RCBOs in the non RCD section of the board,
or on their own RCD if you have more splits.

power to garage / shed (mini-CU in there eventually)
electric shower
light in meter cupboard

A "maintained" emergency light hooked up to whatever circuit illuminates
the floor nearest the CU works well here. You can use it with a switch
to light the cupboard for day to day stuff, but if the power to the
circuit is interrupted then it will light from batteries. It makes
finding a CU in the dark to reset a trip much simpler.

These seem like logical groupings.

yup

How do folks manage with less ?

Older installs may only have up and downstairs sockets - no kitchen etc.
Might even only have a single socket circuit etc.

How should I combine these ?

There are lots of ways, you need to think about how you are going to use
the system, and what the implications of trips will be.

Thanks,
Simon.