Homeowner wisdom checklist
A little prep makes the day calmer — especially while the supply is off or cycling during tests.
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Tea & coffee
I will cut the power almost immediately upon arrival. Please make a cup of tea or coffee before I get there — or fill a flask if you’re a serious caffeine lover.
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Hot food
Electric ovens and hobs will be off. Please complete all hot food prep before the scheduled start time.
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Internet & connectivity
Your Wi-Fi router will be down. Ensure mobile devices are charged and you have a mobile hotspot ready if you need to work from home.
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Fridge & freezer rules
- Freezer: strictly no opening. A sealed freezer keeps food safe for many hours.
- Fridge: only open if essential. Keep it closed to maintain the cold.
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Technology
Properly shut down PCs and consoles before I arrive. Unplug sensitive equipment to protect against surges during the testing phase.
Technical FAQ
Why does the power go on and off during testing?
RCDs and RCBOs must be proven to disconnect within the required time if someone receives a dangerous shock (typically within 0.3 seconds at rated residual current for general-purpose RCDs in dwellings). That means we deliberately trip them under test — so you will see the power drop out and come back as each device is exercised. It is normal, and it confirms your safety switches actually work.
What if a fault is found?
New consumer units use modern, sensitive protection. They can reveal existing wiring issues that older gear never highlighted — for example poor neutrals, borrowed earths, or degraded insulation. If we find something that fails BS 7671 or is unsafe, we will explain it clearly and quote any rectification before signing off. Fixing those issues is what keeps your installation safe and certifiable.
Guide for information only; your electrician will confirm timings on site. Typical domestic swap durations vary with circuits, boards, and remedial work.