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Fizzing Buzzing noise from consumer unit

Posted by Nesar Monir, on
I've recently discovered fairly loud Fizzing/Buzzing noise coming from the consumer unit ONLY when the electric shower is on. The shower is about 16 years old, 7.5 or 8.5 kW power rating. Consumer box is in hallway, inside a cabinet, so couldn't hear noise with cabinet doors closed. No other noises or issues with electrics in house, no burning smell or marks around consumer unit, no melted bits. Is this noise normal?
Dale Pritchard

Dale Pritchard

This could be a loose connection within the consumer unit which can lead to "arching". This can lead to a fire. Get an electrician to investigate immediately.
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Stevie Lectrix

Stevie Lectrix

A loose connection for that circuit is likely, which is a fire risk. Also, a faulty circuit breaker (fuse) sometimes generate noise. Either way, an electrician or competent person should be contracted without delay.
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Tom Quirk

Tom Quirk

Hi Nesar Stephen is correct, there is a huge potential for fire, turn the MCB off, do not use the shower and get an electrician to check as soon as possible
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Stephen Evans

Stephen Evans

NO! This noise is not normal, you could have anything from a loose connection to a faulty MCB. You need an electrician to investigate it as soon as possible. In the meantime switch off the MCB for the shower and don't use it until it is checked.
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