Hager Design 10 VML106 Metal Consumer Unit 6-Way 100A Main Switch

In-Depth Look

The Hager VML106 is a staple board for domestic electrical work in the UK. With metal consumer unit enclosures now expected in domestic premises under the wiring regulations (BS 7671), the VML106 is one of the more commonly specified boards for smaller properties, flats and extensions.

Build and Layout

The steel enclosure is powder-coated white and feels robust in the hand. Inside, the DIN rail accepts standard Hager MCBs with a satisfying click, and the split-load busbars are clearly separated for the two RCD banks. Cable entry knock-outs are provided at both the top and bottom, giving flexibility for surface or flush mounting. The supplied circuit chart slots neatly into the inside of the cover for identification purposes.

Metal Enclosure and Circuit Protection

The metal construction is the headline feature from a regulatory perspective, because the wiring regulations (BS 7671) expect consumer units in domestic premises to use a non-combustible enclosure. The dual RCD arrangement divides the circuits across two RCDs, so that a single earth fault does not plunge the entire property into darkness. Which edition of the regulations applies, and whether surge protection is needed, is for your electrician to confirm.

Verdict

The Hager VML106 is a well-built consumer unit that suits smaller domestic installations perfectly. Its dual RCD split-load configuration, metal enclosure and Hager component compatibility make it a reliable choice for electricians who want a straightforward board for flats, small houses and extensions.

How It Compares

The Hager VML106 is a 6-way metal consumer unit with a 100A main switch, which is the box that distributes electricity around a home and protects each circuit. It uses a dual RCD split-load layout, with two RCDs (residual current devices, which cut the power if they detect an earth leak) each protecting a bank of circuits.

Other brands sell similar metal boards. Wylex and Schneider both offer metal consumer units, and Eaton and MK have their own ranges, so the choice often comes down to the installer’s familiarity, the components they like and the number of ways the property needs. Always compare the number of usable ways, the main switch rating and what is included in the box.

The more important comparison is between layouts. A split-load board like the VML106 has two RCDs sharing the circuits, so if one trips, only the circuits behind that RCD lose power. The alternative is a board populated with individual RCBOs (a combined MCB and RCD in one device), where each circuit has its own protection. In an RCBO board, a fault on one circuit generally affects only that circuit. The trade-off with a split-load board is that more circuits share each RCD.

Before ordering, check exactly what is in the box, in particular whether the RCDs and MCBs are supplied or need to be bought separately, because listings for this type of board vary. The VML106 accepts Hager Type B and Type C MCBs on a DIN rail.

For a flat, small house or extension where the circuit count is modest, the VML106 is a practical choice. For a bigger property, or if you want maximum resilience, ask your electrician about a larger board or an RCBO arrangement.

Common Questions

Why must modern consumer units be metal? The UK wiring regulations now expect consumer units in homes to be made from non-combustible material, and the VML106’s steel enclosure is designed to meet this. The idea is that a metal enclosure helps contain a fault rather than adding fuel to it. Your installer should confirm that a new board suits your installation.

What is the practical difference between a split-load board and RCBOs? With a split-load board, circuits are grouped behind two RCDs, so a fault can take out several circuits at once. With RCBOs, each circuit has its own protection, so only the faulty one trips. The VML106 is a dual RCD split-load unit, so the first approach applies. Ask your electrician which is right for your property.

What does 6 usable ways mean when I need more circuits? A “way” is a space for one protective device. The file lists 6 usable ways, and lists this as a possible limitation for larger properties with many circuits. Count your circuits, such as lighting, sockets, cooker and shower, before choosing. If you need more, a larger board is the sensible answer rather than trying to squeeze devices in.

Does it include surge protection? The product information does not say a surge protection device (SPD) is included. An SPD is a device that helps guard equipment against short voltage spikes. Do not assume one is supplied. Ask your electrician whether one is needed for your installation and how it will be fitted.