An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a safety device used in electrical circuits to prevent electric shock and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
Located within your consumer unit it detects when the live and neutral wires become unbalanced in your electrical circuit and could reveal a potentially dangerous leakage of electricity. If an RCD detects any imbalance, it typically cuts the power within milliseconds to prevent injury and even death.
RCDs can literally be a lifesaver as they can prevent electric shock. If you touch a live wire by accident or there’s a fault with an appliance that causes electrical current to leak to earth, the RCD will intervene to cut the power and prevent any harm being done.
RCDs can also be instrumental in reducing the risk of a fire caused by faulty electrics. Leakage currents can build up over time, and that can lead to overheating and potentially the start of a fire. The RCD helps to stop this by shutting down the power.
As well as preventing injury and fire, correctly operating RCDs can help you comply with regulations. RCDs are required for all electrical installations, especially in areas where water is present, such as a bathroom or a kitchen. They're essentially a safety net, helping to protect both people and property from electrical hazards.
As such an integral part of your electrical safety setup, you should test your RCD at least every six months. The manufacturer may recommend you test more frequently so it’s worth checking their guidelines, but six-monthly intervals should be an absolute minimum.
It couldn’t be easier to test your RCD as it simply entails pressing the ‘Test’ button on the device to make sure it trips and disconnects the circuit properly. If the RCD doesn't trip when you press the button, it's a sign that it’s likely to be faulty and needs to be replaced or serviced.
Watch our video about testing your RCD here:
In addition to regular testing carried out by yourself, it's a good idea to book a qualified electrician to undertake an EICR check on your home or workspace once every five years. The RCD will be checked fully to ensure that it's functioning correctly, especially if your home or business experiences occasional electrical issues.
At MS Electrical we specialise in fixed wire testing and PAT testing in Cambridge. Simply call us on 01223 850301 or complete our enquiry form to request a no-obligation quotation.