FuseBuddy is a practical calculator designed to help PAT testers sense-check fuse size, cable size and plug type for 230V and 110V equipment based on appliance power rating.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides guidance only. Final selection must take into account manufacturer instructions, appliance construction, and applicable standards. Where manufacturer specifications differ, those specifications take precedence.
FuseBuddy – PAT Fuse & Cable Selector
Enter the appliance power rating below to get guidance on suitable fuse size, cable and plug type for common UK 230V and 110V equipment.
FuseBuddy - PAT Fuse & Cable Selector
Results
No internal fuse, correct protection must be provided by the circuit overcurrent device.
What FuseBuddy helps you do
FuseBuddy is intended to support competent persons carrying out portable appliance testing by providing a quick and consistent way to:
- Estimate operating current from appliance power ratings
- Sense-check whether a fitted fuse appears appropriate
- Understand why lower-voltage equipment often requires larger cables
- Identify common plug types used with 230V and 110V equipment
- Reduce over-fusing and undersized cable risks during inspection
When FuseBuddy should not be used alone
This calculator should not be relied upon as the sole decision-making tool where manufacturer instructions or appliance markings specify exact fuse or cable requirements.
Examples include:
- Appliances with manufacturer-specified fuse ratings
- Motor-driven or inductive equipment with high inrush current
- Fixed or hard-wired equipment
- Equipment still under manufacturer warranty
In all cases, manufacturer documentation takes precedence.
230V vs 110V equipment explained
Although 110V equipment is often perceived as lower power, the same appliance power demand results in a higher operating current at lower voltage.
This means:
- Higher current draw at 110V compared to 230V
- Larger conductor sizes are required to carry that current safely
- Heavier cables and connectors are normal and expected
- Shock risk is reduced, but electrical load is not
FuseBuddy highlights these differences to help testers understand what looks correct during inspection.
Who this tool is designed for
FuseBuddy is designed for:
- PAT testers
- Maintenance teams
- Facilities and site supervisors
- PAT testing course delegates
It is intended as a guidance and learning aid, not a replacement for professional judgement or manufacturer documentation.
