Can You Fit a Consumer Unit on Its Side? And Why Qualifications Still Matter for Your Career 

Every week electricians face questions that aren’t always clear-cut. One recent talking point was whether a consumer unit can be mounted on its side. Many sparks said “no,” while a smaller group gave a more detailed answer. The truth? It’s a trick question—the correct response is to check the manufacturer’s instructions. Some units are designed to be rotated, others aren’t. 

This type of scenario highlights why training and qualifications remain essential. From wiring regs to inspection and testing, the trade relies on professionals who know how to answer these questions correctly on site. For those starting out, completing an electrician course builds the foundation. For those progressing further, the NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation sets you apart as fully qualified. 

At Elec Training, we not only cover practical skills but also prepare learners for the kinds of grey areas that crop up in real work. For details, visit www.elec.training. 

Farewell 2391-10: A Tough but Respected Qualification 

For years, the City & Guilds 2391-10 (Inspection & Testing) was one of the most respected—and feared—qualifications in the industry. First i ntroduced in 2008, it tested candidates on periodic inspection and testing at a very high level. 

• Pass rate: Nationally around 32%. 

• Reputation: Seen as proof of excellence for top electricians and contractors. 

• Replacement: Eventually retired and split into the 2394 (Initial Verification) and 2395 (Periodic Inspection & Testing). 

The old 2391-10 became legendary for its difficulty, but also for the pride electricians felt when passing. Today, learners still take on inspection and testing courses, but through updated formats that are better structured and aligned with modern regs. 

Why Continuous Training Matters 

Changes like the replacement of 2391-10 aren’t unusual. In fact, the electrical industry regularly updates qualifications, both to match new technology and to improve the way c ompetence is assessed. 

That’s why electricians can’t simply qualify once and stop. From Amendment updates to specialist courses, keeping current is part of the trade. 

For example: 

• The move from 17th to 18th Edition. 

• Introduction of EV charging qualifications. 

• Replacement of older inspection/testing courses with modular alternatives. 

It shows that being an electrician is about l ifelong learning. 

Wages and Opportunities: A Strong Outlook 

Training doesn’t just keep you compliant—it boosts your earning power. The 2026–28 JIB wage deal guarantees nearly a 4% rise, pushing JIB rates even higher. 

According to the 2025 pay guide, qualified electricians remain at the top of UK trade salaries, with averages above £30,000 and specialist roles often exceeding £40,000–£45,000. With shortages across the sector, demand for skilled sparks is strong, making now the perfect time to upskill. 

Inclusion in the Trade: Colour Blindness 

Not all challenges are about qualifications. Many learners ask if colour blindness prevents them from becoming an electrician. As the Can You Become an Electrician if You’re Colour Blind? article explains, the answer is no—it isn’t an automatic barrier. 

While colour coding is important, adaptations such as labelling, good lighting, and digital testers mean colour blind electricians can (and do) work safely. What matters is honesty about your condition and commitment to working to safe standards. 

This reflects the wider truth: the industry values competence, not perfection. With training and support, many barriers can be overcome. 

Upskilling Pathways: Where Next? 

Electricians at all stages face the same question: what next? The Upskilling Pathways Guide outlines options such as: 

• EV charging qualifications. 

• Solar PV and battery storage. 

• Advanced inspection and testing. 

• Design and verification courses. 

Choosing the right path depends on where you are now. Apprentices and trainees need to complete NVQ Level 3 and AM2. Experienced electricians may branch into renewables or specialise in testing. Either way, the opportunities are there for those willing to invest in training. 

Quick Questions Build Better Sparks 

The consumer unit question is a perfect example of why knowledge matters. Without training, you might rely on guesswork. With training, you know to check manufacturer guidance and regs. 

This mirrors the wider trade: whether it’s installing renewables, carrying out an EICR, or quoting wages, customers expect answers. Training gives you those answers and builds confidence on site. 

Challenges to Be Realistic About 

Of course, training and qualifications aren’t without challenges: 

• Time: Balancing work, study, and life. 

• Cost: Courses, books, and exams require investment. 

• Updates: Regulations change, requiring ongoing CPD. 

• Portfolio evidence: NVQ completion can be demanding. 

But these challenges are outweighed by the rewards—better pay, wider opportunities, and the satisfaction of working in a respected trade. 

The Bigger Picture 

The UK faces rising demand for electricians from housing, infrastructure, EV rollouts, and renewables. Training isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about being ready to lead. 

• Consumer unit questions show why technical knowledge matters. 

• Farewell to 2391-10 shows how qualifications evolve. 

• Wage rises show the value of staying in the trade. 

• Colour blindness guidance shows inclusivity. 

• Upskilling pathways show how careers grow. 

Together, they underline the same message: electricians who train, adapt, and stay current will thrive. 

If you’re ready to move forward, start with an electrician course and progress toward the NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation. With Elec Training, you’ll not only gain qualifications but also the confidence to answer tricky on-site questions, command higher pay, and plan your next step. 

FAQs on Consumer Units, Electrical Qualifications, and Upskilling in the UK (September 2025) 

Below is a comprehensive FAQ addressing your questions about consumer unit installation, historical and current electrical qualifications, and career progression for electricians, based on UK standards as of September 25, 2025. Information aligns with BS 7671, City & Guilds (C&G), and industry trends. 

1 – Can a consumer unit legally be fitted on its side?

Yes, a consumer unit can legally be fitted on its side in the UK, provided it complies with BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 (18th Edition) and manufacturer instructions. Regulation 132.7 requires installations to be suitable for their environment, and Regulation 511.1 mandates compliance with manufacturer specifications. Many modern consumer units (e.g., Hager, Wylex) are designed for flexible orientation, but the installation must ensure accessibility, proper cable entry, and no compromise to IP ratings (e.g., IP4X for protection against solid objects). Incorrect orientation could void warranties or fail inspections, so always check the specific unit’s manual. 

2 – Where should you look first if you’re unsure about how a consumer unit can be mounted?

First, consult the manufacturer’s installation instructions provided with the consumer unit, as these specify acceptable orientations and mounting conditions to meet BS EN 61439-3 (low-voltage switchgear standards). Next, refer to BS 7671:2018+A2:2022, particularly Regulations 132.7 (suitability) and 514.9 (labeling and accessibility), to ensure compliance. If further clarity is needed, check guidance from IET Guidance Note 3 (Inspection and Testing) or consult a Competent Person Scheme (CPS) like NICEIC or NAPIT for best practices. Manufacturer websites or technical support lines (e.g., Hager, Schneider Electric) are also reliable sources. 

3 – Why did the old City & Guilds 2391-10 qualification have such a tough reputation?

The C&G 2391-10 (Inspection and Testing, pre-2017) had a tough reputation due to its demanding assessment structure, combining a rigorous 3-hour written exam (open-book, complex fault-finding scenarios), extensive practical assessments (e.g., full EICR simulation), and high pass mark (70%+). It required in-depth knowledge of BS 7671 and IET Guidance Note 3, with failure rates around 40–50% due to intricate questions on test sequences and fault diagnosis. The course tested both theoretical and hands-on skills under time pressure, challenging even experienced electricians. 

4 – What courses replaced the 2391-10 Inspection & Testing qualification?

The C&G 2391-10 was replaced in 2017 by three qualifications to better align with industry needs: 

• C&G 2391-50: Level 3 Award in Initial Verification (focuses on new installations, 5 days, practical/theory). 

• C&G 2391-51: Level 3 Award in Periodic Inspection (focuses on existing installations, EICRs, 5 days). 

• C&G 2391-52: Level 3 Award in Inspection and Testing (combines initial and periodic, 5–7 days, most comprehensive). These are more modular, with 2391-52 being the most popular for full competency, requiring a 60-question open-book exam and practical assessments. 

5 – Do electricians need to retrain every time wiring regulations are updated?

No, electricians do not need to retrain fully for every wiring regulation update. For minor updates like 18th Edition Amendment 3 (2024), a 1-day refresher course or eLearning module (4–6 hours, £150–£300) covers changes (e.g., EV charging clarifications). Major updates, like the transition from 17th to 18th Edition, may require the full C&G 2382-22 course (3–5 days) if significantly outdated. CPS schemes (NICEIC/NAPIT) mandate updates every 3–5 years to maintain compliance. 

6 – How has the shift from the 17th to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations affected training requirements?

The shift from the 17th Edition (2008) to the 18th Edition (2018) increased training requirements by introducing new safety measures (e.g., AFDDs, SPDs, EV charging Section 722, prosumer Chapter 82), necessitating a full C&G 2382-22 course for those on 17th Edition. Training now emphasizes net-zero technologies, with 20–30% more content on renewables and fire safety, impacting NVQ Level 3 portfolios and CPD for EV/solar qualifications. Refreshers for Amendment 2 (2022) and Amendment 3 (2024) are shorter but mandatory for compliance. 

7 – What impact do new qualifications like EV charging and solar PV courses have on an electrician’s career?

New qualifications like C&G 2921-34 (EV charging) and C&G 2399 (solar PV) significantly boost an electrician’s career by: 

• Opening High-Demand Roles: Access to OZEV/MCS-approved projects (300,000 EV chargers, 19GW solar by 2030), with 160,000+ jobs. 

• Increasing Earnings: 20–30% pay premium (£40,000–£60,000 vs. £33,000–£38,000 for general electricians). 

• Future-Proofing: Aligns with net-zero goals, ensuring relevance in renewables markets. 

• Expanding Services: Enables bundled offerings (e.g., EV + solar), increasing client base and self-employment opportunities. These short courses (2–5 days) enhance employability and competitiveness. 

8 – Does being colour blind stop someone from becoming an electrician?

No, being colour blind does not stop someone from becoming an electrician, but it presents challenges due to the need to identify wire colours (brown live, blue neutral, green/yellow earth). Accommodations like using labels, voltage testers, or cable markers (e.g., numbered tags) mitigate risks. Employers and CPS schemes may require additional safety checks, but many colour-blind electricians succeed with proper training and tools. Disclosure during training (e.g., NVQ Level 3) ensures tailored support. 

9 – What are some of the main upskilling pathways for electricians in 2026 and beyond?

Main upskilling pathways for 2026 include: 

• EV Charging (C&G 2921-34, 2–3 days): For OZEV-compliant installations, targeting 300,000 chargers. 

• Solar PV (C&G 2399, 3–5 days): For MCS-approved solar and battery storage projects. 

• Inspection & Testing (C&G 2391-52, 5–7 days): Enables EICRs, boosting earnings by £5,000–£10,000/year. 

• PAT Testing (C&G 2377-77, 2–3 days): Adds facility management services. 

• Energy Efficiency (BPEC Part L, 1 day): For voltage optimisation and smart systems. These align with net-zero demand, offering 20–30% pay increases and progression to supervisory roles. 

10 – Why does ongoing training and holding the NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation still matter for career progression and pay?

Ongoing training and the NVQ Level 3 (C&G 2357) are critical because: 

• Competency Benchmark: NVQ Level 3 proves real-world skills via portfolios, enabling ECS Gold Card and CPS registration for unsupervised work. 

• Career Progression: Unlocks roles like Approved Electrician (£18.78/hour), supervisor (£45,000+), or renewables specialist (£40,000–£60,000). 

• Pay Increase: Boosts earnings from £19,000–£22,000 (entry-level) to £33,000–£38,000 (qualified), with 14% JIB rises through 2028. 

• Compliance: Ongoing training (e.g., 18th Edition refreshers) ensures adherence to BS 7671, reducing breaches (20,000+ fires annually) and maintaining employability. 

• Net-Zero Demand: Supports 160,000+ jobs by 2030 in EV, solar, and heat pumps, requiring updated skills. This combination drives long-term stability and growth in a competitive market.