The consumer unit is the central control system of your electrical installation

It is very important for your consumer unit to be up to date as a new consumer unit has many benefits that can save your life such as preventing electrical fires. A new consumer unit replacement should now be constructed from non combustible materials (metal enclosures) to prevent the spread of electrical fires. A new consumer unit may be required due to alterations you may have had to your home or business. Installation of new circuits such as a new shower circuit, outside sockets or modifications to your bathroom circuits require additional protection from an RCD. You may find that your old consumer unit does not offer you additional protection of an RCD or Circuit breakers that trip in time to prevent any danger.

BS7671, which is the wiring regulations for England and Wales have regulated that all circuits, must now be protected by an RCD (Residual Current Device).