Are RCD trips a good safety device or a nuisance

(06/05/2010)

With RCD trips being installed in most properties now, and a necessity in new builds, or when updating, we frequently receive complaints about nuisance tripping. We also frequently get tripping problems when replacing a fuse board with a new distribution board. Normally because the staircase lighting has been previously wired incorrectly.

Tracing such faults can be time consuming and costly to the end user. We feel it is in our interest to make it clear to the client PRIOR to installation of such pitfalls, and what can be expected.

However, make no mistake, the inconvenience is far, far outweighed by the safety aspect, and the safety of life.

It must be understood that when these RCDs do trip, it is because of a leakage to earth fault. Such faults can potentially make metal equipment such as radiators, kettles, cookers etc live, resulting in electric shock, and even death.

Quite simply, The RCD trip is just doing exactly what it is designed to do by tripping, and is exposing flaws, (in some cases very dangerous flaws) in your wiring system or faulty appliances.

So my advice is stick with it guys, and embrace the RCD for what it is: A lifesaver!

Related categories:  Circuit breakers MCB, MCCB, ACB   Residential