What does a residual current device do?

A residual current device (RCD) is a safety switch that helps protect you and your family. When an RCD detects a problem with your power supply, it switches the power off within 10 to 50 milliseconds to prevent electric shock.

What trips a residual current device?

RCDs trip when a fault is detected in an electrical circuit. When an RCD trips frequently (even after resetting), it is probably responding to a damaged electrical appliance.

Do you need RCD with Rcbo?

RCDs can protect against electric shocks, residual currents, and earth faults. On the other hand, RCBOs can do what RCDs can do and protect a circuit from short circuits and overload. As such, it can protect overload and short circuits.

Do I need an RCD plug?

It is essential to ensure that any extension lead used outside is protected by an RCD. We would always recommend having an RCD as part of the extension lead unless it is 15m or shorter and you are absolutely certain that any sockets to which it will be connected are already RCD protected.

Why does a RCD keep tripping?

The most common causes of RCD tripping are faulty appliances but there can be other causes. If an RCD trips i.e. switches to the ‘OFF’ position you can: Try resetting the RCD by toggling the RCD switch back to the ‘ON’ position. If the problem with the circuit was a temporary one, this may solve the problem.

Why is it important to use RCD?

RCD protection minimises the risk of serious electric shock. If there is an earth-fault, the RCD will sense a leakage (out of balance current) and trip, disconnecting the supply of electricity. It’s a safety device – every household should have one!

Why does my main RCD keep tripping?

What is RCD trip switch?

Trip switches and Residual Circuit Devices (RCD) A trip switch or RCD detects leakages of electricity current from the circuit. Once a fault is detected, the circuit is disconnected. Trip switches/RCDs are found in the fuse board and should be tested frequently.

Can you use RCD as main switch?

1 – can you use the RCD as a main switch for the installation – yes, all RCCB’s that meet BS EN 61008 are rated for isolation.