Confused homeowner in the middle of renovation work

[apprentice87]

Hi again, Just have to say i agree with Special Location and Prodave absolutely 100%

I went one step further!! Not only have i got my MCCB in the meter box, but as soon as the DNO cleared off i pulled the fuses [it was a three phase supply] and not only installed the tails into the MCCB but also into the DNO's cutout and left the stripped ends all in a nice neat straight line ready for the meter installer. [OBVIOUSLY I LEFT THE FUSES OUT!!!]

When they came a few days later, i said "Errm, i know i am not supposed to, but i pulled the fuses and installed the tails all ready for you"

Result?? One highly delighted meter installer who only had to plonk his meter on the tails and do them up!!

The installer then explained that it was no trouble at all, and that if i ever had to pull the fuses again, no probs, just do whatever, then get hold of them, and they would come round next day and re-seal it for me.

They really are helpful!!

One thing though, you MUST make sure that your stuff is in the upper right corner of the box as in Special Locations photo, as the supply cable and cutout always go in the bottom left corner. Just lay it out as Special location did his [Very nice and neat it was too!!] and you will be fine!!!

 

[ProDave]

I don't think I would have fitted tails into the DNO's supply head. That is strictly the responsibility of the DNO and the meter monkey.

And lets not get into the seal fairy discussion again

 

[apprentice87]

Hi Prodave, Yes! i was a bit naughty!! but all's well that ends well!! To be honest, i did it because i know they are in a rush, and i wanted my tails to be all neat and tidy and not to look like they were fitted in three minutes!!

As Special location says, when the DNO people come around, they are just checking that the actual job is the same as they have quoted for, and all looks feasible. I suppose though that if you do ask them "Am i allowed to put stuff in the box" then they are bound to say "No" in case there is a problem and you quote them "He said it was ok!!" type thing!!

When i had a site visit i asked them though, and to be honest they simply did not care. I think it is more a case of they have a look and see if they think you sound like you know what you are talking about. When i asked them they just said "yeah, no probs, it will be me doing the job anyway"

They were absolutely great, could not have been more helpful, and likewise the meter people, just great to deal with, could not wish for better.

I honestly think they just have a look, and if it looks all neat and tidy, and you sound like you are not daft then it is no probs!!

john..

 

[chrishaworth]

I find the Hydro easy going in Moray, they turn up, fit the cut out and meter (with integral DP switch nowadays), and leave it to you what goes on next. Probably happy that an NIC sparks is doing the installation. I usually bung in a 30mA RCD and a 16A fuse to a socket for the builder - I test but don't issue an NIC cert - just an IET one. They also supply me with temporary cutout seals for when I need to remove the fuse for a CU change. Makes life a lot easier.

Cheers

Chris