Do I need to replace my RCD? As a result of serious safety concerns and recent legislative changes, this is a question we are encountering more frequently.
To help you understand what the new legislation means and to explain exactly why you might need to replace your RCD, Quality Electrician Birkenshaw have put together a quick guide.
What is an RCD?
An RCD, or residual current device, is a life-saving safety device which prevents you from getting a fatal electric shock if you touch something carrying live current, such as a wire. They also provide protection against electrical fires. Ordinary fuses and circuit-breakers cannot compete with RCDs in the level of protection they offer you. There are various types of RCD, each suited to a specific task. You will find your RCDs in your fuse board.
Which RCD do I need to replace?
The most common type of RCD fitted to fuse boards in Birkenshaw, and indeed across the UK, was a type AC RCD. They were the industry standard and had been around for quite some time. Type AC RCDs react to AC earth fault currents but can be blinded or stunned by a DC overload. This happens when an electronically controlled device introduces a DC current into the wiring and effectively turns off the RCD. Obviously, this can result in a serious risk to life as the RCD is no longer protecting you. This is why they now need to be replaced; regulation (BS7671:2018(AMD2:2022) addresses this. When type AC RCDs were initially installed, we had much less electronic equipment in our homes. Nowadays almost every socket carries a load which has the potential for DC feedback. Anything from a washing machine, gaming systems or LED lighting can be problematic.
What do I need to Replace my Type AC RCD with?
The newer, safer addition to the types of RCD is a Type A RCD. Type A RCDs can react to both AC and DC fault currents safely. They are protected from the blinding effect of a DC current feedback. Type A RCDs are now the minimum requirement for socket circuits and any fixed equipment which may produce DC fault currents.
Type A RCDs were previously quite expensive in comparison to Type AC RCDs and so they were not fitted as frequently. This means even recent fuse board changes may need to be revisited to ensure full protection. If you are unsure which type of RCD has been installed in your Bradford area home, Quality Electrician will be happy to come and assess the situation and advise you if your RCD needs replacing.
Quality Electrician are based in Birkenshaw , serving Bradford and the surrounding areas. Our fully qualified and NICEIC registered electricians are friendly, professional and reliable. If your RCDs need replacing or you have any questions about replacing RCDs, call us today.
