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There are many different components to a modern consumer unit. Each one is vital in keeping you and your home safe.
One of these components is the Residual Current Device (RCD). An RCD is an important safety device that protects against electric shock. If at any point you require additional help, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Allman Electrical on 01527 304049.
You can identify an RCD by its number (61009), but more easily by looking for a button that is marked T or Test.
An RCD works by monitoring the current flowing in a circuit and switching off the supply automatically if it detects an imbalance, for example, if someone touches a live wire or appliance. This ultimately reduces the chance of electric shock to people and can protect electrical equipment from damage caused by over currents.
All modern consumer units are fitted with an RCD as they provide extra protection against electric shock. The electricity supply will switch off within 30 milliseconds if an imbalance is detected – this is much faster than a standard fuse or circuit breaker could manage.
Regular testing of the RCD is key to ensuring it is functioning correctly. All RCDs should be tested regularly using a suitable tester, and any faults identified should be reported to a qualified electrician. It is essential to ensure that the RCD does not trip too easily or take too long to react, as this could cause an unsafe situation.
You should test your RCD at least once every six months. An easy way to remember is to test your RCD when you reset your clocks for British Summer Time in March and October.
When you see an RCD within a consumer unit, there will often be two (Dual RCD Consumer Unit). If you only see one or don't see one at all, then you may need to consider upgrading your consumer unit. If an RCD trips, all the circuits protected by it, will lose power. If you only have one, it may be controlling every circuit in your consumer unit; therefore, if your RCD tripped, you lose all electrical power until the fault is fixed.
If you upgrade your consumer unit now, you might see something called an RCBO instead of an RCD. An RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Over-Current) combines every breaker with an RCD. This means that if it trips, only that one circuit loses power, meaning much less inconvenience for you or whoever is living in the home. For landlords, this could also save money from a very urgent call out (no power at all) to something that could wait a short while (just one circuit not working).
To reset an RCD or RCBO is exactly the same as an MCB. Just push the breaker back into the on position. If it doesn't go back into the on position, please get in touch with Allman Electrical for more assistance.
In summary, an RCD is a very important safety device found in consumer units and provides invaluable protection against electric shock. Regular testing of the RCD is essential to make sure it is functioning correctly and keeping you and your family safe. If you have any concerns regarding the safety of your consumer unit, contact your local electrician, or Allman Electrical on 01527 304049 who can help identify any potential issues, or answer any questions.