2003-06-04 - A unique sliding access door is helping to make ABB’s Housemaster moulded consumer units an increasingly popular choice for professional electricians since the range was launched on the UK market less than a year ago in June 2002.
ABB designed the Housemaster in consultation with a panel of electricians who identified that one of their most common installation problems with consumer units occurs when they have to be fitted into confined spaces such as cupboards and understair storage compartments. This is because limited clearance for traditional fold-out doors makes access difficult and is a frequent cause of breakages. ABB responded by developing a sliding door for the Housemaster which will stay put in either the open or closed position, this both improves access and in combination with the unit’s overall compact dimensions enables it to be installed in less space.
One of the first to install the Housemater was Steven Foulser from electrical contractor Steve’s Electical in Waltham Chase, Hampshire who said: The consumer unit’s sliding door is one of many simple but effective design features. We’ve installed a number of ABB units recently, often in very confined spaces, and found the process much easier. Its good to see electrical products being designed with the electrician in mind.
Housemaster background
Housemaster moulded consumer units are available in five sizes to cover requirements from 4 up to 18 ways, including 4+4, 6+6 and 8+8. A connection bridge allows units to be connected quickly and neatly without the need for tools or trunking.
The Housemaster is supplied with pre-installed incomer and busbar, and removable neutral and earth terminal bar holders can be conveniently located at the top, bottom or either side of the unit.
The units come with factory fitted switch disconnectors and/or RCDs, and are designed for use with Europe’s most popular range of single pole MCBs with ratings from 6A to 63A. All devices can be locked on or off for safety and security. A space saving RCBO (residual current circuit breaker with overload) module is also available for applications where earth leakage protection is required on individual units.