Hot tubs have become trendy, particularly in Depts 79, 86 and 16! I received a call from a new client back in May who was having a hot tub installed and they were advised by the manufacture to seek electrical assistance from a qualified electrician. I was only too pleased to help and since then have received a number of calls.

What could be nicer than sitting under the stars in the summer with a bit of music and a bottle of something chilled relaxing.  The lifestyle statement has many plus points for your physical well being as well being an impressive feature to invite friends to.  It's a great way to unwind and sooth aching joints and muscles and let's face it there's some stunning scenery in France to look onto.

As the months have gone by I have been fortunate enough to visit personally and professionally homes where there has been an inviting hot tub, they have been cool conversation starters and I know that in 2015 my services will be called upon to help ensure that consumer units are geared up for these additions.

Now for the serious stuff
Hot tubs are governed by strict regulation under the French normes, always consult with a qualified electrician.  Your hot tub will be powered at the mains via and independent miniature circuit breaker [mcb] and will generally require a 32A supply from your consumer unit - this may vary and is dependent on the guidelines of the manufacturer.  An isolator switch will also factor in as part of the installation, allowing users to be able to isolate the power should you need to stop power from your main board flowing to the hot tub.

A great way to enjoy aperos en France! 

Suppliers of Spas:
http://www.canadianspacompany.co.uk/5-People/THUNDER-BAY-hot-tub.html
http://www.limousin-spas.com/
http://simplyspasfrance.com/

It has been a busy year for Electricien Anglais En France and have been fortunate enough to acquired some fantastic work which has enabled me to put my knowledge of the French electrical system into their homes.  I have also had my first inspection by the Consuel, which has been a great experience and again demonstrates my knowledge of the strict regulations in France where new installations are concerned.  An inspection is required where there is no power supply present.  So by installing correctly I am making sure that the incoming electrical supply is as safe as houses.

The following paragraphs are updates of a couple of new rewires where certification has not been required but adherence to French normes has been applied.

A full rewire on a older French property in January 2014 with an existing but non-compliant supply and non compliant cabling throughout.  While there was no need for sign off by Consuel, all electrics comply to French normes.   For example, the house had plenty of 2 pin sockets which are no longer compliant as they have no earth connection.  The house was a blank canvas and clients were able to redesign their home and incorporate the relevant requirements for under floor heating, water tanks and plenty of socket points throughout the house and various practical and mood lighting fixings throughout.   Much of the cabling was 'chased in' which means that the cables are not visible. Due to the extensive works that has been undertaken on this property and the time allowed by the clients, various stages of my work was carried in tandem with other works taking place. 

Having been established here now for nearly two and a half years, I am always keen to know how customers have found me.  Recently I received an enquiry from a potential customer who had seen my details in the local insurance office that we both share.  He had just purchased his first French property and wanted a qualified opinion on the electrical diagnostic report.

I then met with the client and we talked through both corrective and additional requirements to his property.  Fortunately the devis was accepted for both and this week I have upgraded the fuseboard to incorporate RCDs and additional works for cooker and extra lighting and sockets for the upstairs areas, as well as fitting some original art deco light fittings, which were rewired to comply.

I shall look forward to working for him again in 2015 for outside lighting work.