What is an RCD?

Check out Definitive Electrical Solutions’s blog post on what is an RCD? And find out why RCD protection is essential in Derby homes.

Definitive Electrical Solutions have years of experience working with landlords, letting agents and homeowners so have a wealth of knowledge and expertise to impart.

1) What is an RCD? 

Residual Current Devices are cleverly designed to detect electricity or current leaking to earth. RCD’s work by constantly tracking the balance of current between neutral and live were. Even if the slightest imbalance is detected, RCDs “trip” within milliseconds to protect individuals.

RCD protection in electrical circuits has revolutionised electrical safety, cutting off power in less that 40 milliseconds. This is considerably faster than traditional circuit breakers.

2) Why do you need an RCD?

Electrical safety is of great importance to the work we do. Installing safe electrical installations which include RCD protection will prevent hazards such as electric shocks. Imagine mowing the lawn and accidentally cutting the cable. RCD protection kicks to prevent fatal accidents.

3) What are the different RCD types?

RCD is a universal term used to describe electrical devices which include RCD protection. If any of the qualified electricians at Definitive Electrical Solutions are carrying out electrical installation, maintenance or repair work at your home in Derby, we are sure to communicate the type of RCD protection we’re working with. Here are some of the most common examples.

Fixed RCD’s are typically installed in the consumer unit to protect circuits around your home.

Portable RCD’s plug directly into standard sockets so electrical appliances can then be plugged into the socket. A good option if no fixed or socket outlet RCD is present.

Socket RCD’s are incorporated into specific plug sockets to offer protection to individual appliances.

4) Benefits of RCD protection at my home in Derby.

When customers ask us what is an RCD and how do they benefit my home, we reinforce the enhanced safety you can achieve. For example, RCDs detect even the tiniest leakage of current, which can increase the risk of overheating and be the precursor for house fires.

RCD protection is a must in specific locations such as bathrooms and kitchens as well as outdoor electrical installations.

If you’re a landlord in Derby, you may know that regular inspections of electrical systems during an EICR will highlight any areas of non compliance where RCD protection is lacking. Modern industry regulations mandate RCD protection in most electrical circuits to prevent the risk of electric shocks and fires.

5) Why work with Definitive Electrical Solutions?

We are a fully qualified NICEIC approved team with years of experience in the electrical industry. We provide a wide range of electrical services from rewiring to fuseboard upgrades. All work conducted by our professional team is inline with BS7671 Wiring Regulations. Ensuring electrical safety by including RCD protection is paramount to the work we do.

Speak to Definitive Electrical Solutions in Derby if you want more information about what is an RCD? And why they are beneficial.