This morning, SLE Electrical Services Ltd attended an emergency electrical call-out in Hailsham after a homeowner lost power due to a faulty boiler tripping the electrics. While the immediate issue was resolved, the visit highlighted a wider problem we see regularly across East Sussex — outdated electrical protection and ageing electric heating systems.
On arrival, it became clear the property was still fitted with an older split-load RCD consumer unit. When the boiler developed a fault, it caused the entire RCD to trip, cutting power to multiple circuits throughout the home. This is disruptive at the best of times, but during cold weather or early mornings it can quickly become an emergency.
Modern homes are far better protected with RCBO consumer units, where each circuit is individually protected. This means a fault on one appliance — such as a boiler or heater — won’t shut down lighting, sockets, or other essential circuits.
Why RCBO Protection Makes a Real Difference
Only the affected circuit trips Power remains on elsewhere in the property Faster and safer fault finding Reduced nuisance tripping Improved electrical safety and compliance
For homeowners in Hailsham, Eastbourne, Polegate, Heathfield, and surrounding villages, upgrading to an RCBO consumer unit can prevent a minor electrical fault from turning into a full loss of power.
During the same morning, we were also instructed by one of the letting agents we carry out regular work for to attend another property with faulty, outdated electric storage heaters. Much like older consumer units, these heaters are becoming increasingly problematic as they age.
The existing heaters were no longer serviceable, several controls had failed, and associated socket outlets had been damaged due to prolonged use. Crucially, the heaters were not LOT 20 compliant, meaning they no longer meet current energy efficiency and regulatory standards.
LOT 20 compliance forms part of the EcoDesign Directive and applies to all fixed electric heaters. It is particularly relevant in areas with electric-only heating, which are common across Hailsham, Lewes, Brighton, Hove, Seaford, Uckfield, Peacehaven, Saltdean, and many other parts of East Sussex.
Modern LOT 20 compliant heaters must include:
Accurate electronic thermostats Programmable timers Adaptive start technology Open-window detection Improved energy efficiency
For landlords, upgrading to LOT 20 compliant heaters isn’t optional. Installing non-compliant heaters can result in failed electrical inspections, EICR issues, higher tenant energy costs, and ongoing reliability problems.
At SLE Electrical Services, we regularly help homeowners, landlords, and letting agents with:
Emergency electrical call-outs Consumer unit upgrades with RCBO protection Storage heater replacements LOT 20 compliant electric heating upgrades Landlord electrical safety work and EICRs
Many properties across East Sussex still rely on older electrical systems that were never designed for today’s demands. Proactive upgrades not only improve safety but also reduce breakdowns, call-outs, and long-term costs.
If you’re experiencing repeated tripping, power loss, or have old electric storage heaters that need upgrading, early action can prevent future emergencies.
📍 Based in Hailsham
📞 Call SLE Electrical Services on 07429 379 495
We cover Hailsham, Eastbourne, Lewes, Brighton, Hove, Seaford, Uckfield, Polegate, Heathfield, Peacehaven, Saltdean, and surrounding areas.
