Assembling a fuse box (Dutch: groepenkast samenstellen) isn't something you do every day. A good layout prevents nuisance trips, improves safety and gets your home ready for EV chargers, solar panels and heat pumps. This guide covers the key decisions — and how VoltFix handles it across Amsterdam.
1. Why the layout matters
The fuse box distributes power to the whole property. A cramped unit means that a single issue — a leaky washing machine or a faulty lamp — trips multiple rooms at once. Under modern NEN 1010:2020 each circuit should have its own RCBO (aardlekautomaat).
2. How many circuits do you need?
- 1 circuit for the induction hob (Perilex or 3-phase).
- 1 for the washing machine, 1 for the tumble dryer.
- 1 for the dishwasher.
- 1 bathroom circuit (kept separate from bedrooms).
- 1 lighting circuit per floor.
- 1 socket circuit per larger room or floor.
- Optional dedicated circuits for EV charger, heat pump and solar inverter.
Plan for at least 8–12 circuits in an average family home and 14+ for larger or renovated properties.
3. RCBOs or RCDs?
Classic units use one RCD per 4 circuits — one leakage fault knocks out four circuits at once. Modern units use RCBOs (30 mA, curve B or C) per circuit, so if one trips the rest keeps running. Safer and more comfortable — and the current standard for new-builds and renovations.
4. Perilex, 3-phase and heavy loads
Modern induction hobs above 7.4 kW require a Perilex socket or a 3-phase (400V) circuit. Reserve 3 modules for it and use a suitable Perilex RCBO. See our page on Perilex installation in Amsterdam for the wiring side.
5. Plan for the future
The energy transition puts more and more load on the consumer unit. Keep 2 to 4 modules free for future additions such as an EV charger, heat pump or extra solar panels — that saves you a second unit within a few years.
6. Installation and certification
Connecting the unit to the main supply is reserved for a certified electrician. VoltFix delivers design, installation and NEN 1010 inspection as one project. You receive a digital certificate — accepted by insurers, homeowner associations and landlords.
Ready to plan yours?
Share your wishlist via WhatsApp or the contact form. You get a fixed pricewithin one business day for supply and installation — inspection and warranty included. See our main page on fuse box replacement in Amsterdam.