Replace A Fuse | DIY - The Guardian

Skip to main contentSkip to navigationSkip to navigation

Do it yourself and saveDIY This article is more than 15 years oldReviewReplace a fuseThis article is more than 15 years old15 minutesProfessional cost £35: £35 callout charge, plus cost of new fuseDIY cost From 50pDifficulty:Mon 18 Jan 2010 12.06 GMTShare

A fuse is a protective device that cuts off the current if a circuit overloads or if there is a fault. There are three places you are likely to find them in your house: in your mains fuse box/consumer unit (most have now been replaced by a series of trip switches known as MCBs); in a fused connection unit (a switch linked to an appliance, most commonly the electric hob or oven); or in a plug/extension lead. A good hardware store will help you find a replacement.

In a consumer unit

Switch off the mains power, then check each fuse to see which one has blown. If your unit has cartridge-type fuses, you will need to buy a new one from an electrical store. If it has rewirable fuses, remove the old fuse wire, making a note of how it is positioned. Replace with a new wire of the correct amperage, winding it round the screws at both ends.

In a fused connection unit

Ensure that the unit is switched off, then, using the tip of a slot‑head screwdriver, gently open the fuse holder: this is found next to the switch – on ovens etc this is usually on the wall to the side of the appliance. Replace the old fuse with a ceramic fuse of the same amperage.

In a plug

If there is a fuse holder on the bottom of the plug, gently open it using the tip of a slot-head screwdriver. If not, unscrew the large central screw on the base of the plug and open it up. Remove the fuse using a screwdriver, as before. Replace with one of the right amperage for the appliance. Replace the plug cover and screw tight.

Warning

If the fuse blows again immediately, it is likely there is a problem. Consult an electrician.

Explore more on these topics

• DIY
• Do it yourself and save
• Homes
• Saving money
• features

ShareReuse this content

More on this story

More on this story

• 

  Paint a room

• Painting furniture

• 

  Make a simple cushion cover

• Patch a mark on a carpet

• 

  Create a feature wall using wallpaper

• Patch peeling paint

• Repair a crack in a wall

Most viewed

Most viewed

• Fashion
• Food
• Recipes
• Love & sex
• Health & fitness
• Home & garden
• Women
• Men
• Family
• Travel
• Money