How to reset your RCD if there is a fault
Do you have a faulty Residual Current Device? A problem with tripping power? Have you ever wondered if there was anything you could do before you called an Electrician? Read our step-by-step guide on how to reset your RCD.
Step 1)
- Firstly, start by turning all power off from the main switch,
- Try turning just the RCD back on without power to it.
- If the toggle DOES NOT go back on, then the RCD is faulty and you need to call Boss Electrical for a replacement.
- Or, if the toggle DOES go back on, then turn your main switch back on.
- If your RCD trips again go to Step 2.
Note: Some brands toggles are in the middle position and require pushing all the way OFF before going back to ON position.
Step 2)
- Turn all circuit breakers associated with that RCD (Often to the side of it) off.
- Then turn the RCD on
- Progressively,turn each circuit breaker back on one by one till it trips.
- That will help identify the source of the problem. Go to Step 3.
Step 3)
- Go around your house and unplug all appliances from their power outlets.
- A few tricky ones that people forget are fridges, freezers, dishwashers, pond pumps and other various outdoor plugs.
- Once you think you have everything unplugged, turn your RCD back on.
- If it trips again, call Boss Electrical.
- However, If it does not trip go to Step 4.
Step 4)
- You can now go around plugging appliances back in one by one until you find your culprit appliance causing the fault.
- However, if you find the problems still persist, call Boss Electrical.
Note: If the fault is occurring on another circuit, then contact Boss Electrical.
Common Faults
– Crushed leads
– Plugs/leads left out in the weather
– Fridges/Pond Pumps
– Kettles/Toasters
– Water leaking into outdoor fittings
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I have an intermittent power tripping fault and can’t find the problem appliance, what should I do?
A: Take notes of when the RCD tripping occurs. Eg, time, weather, any other works being carried out nearby, was it turned on or off. Let us know these notes when we come to assess the problem as it may help us determine what’s wrong.
Q: How do I tell if it’s an RCD?
A: RCD’s (Safety Switches) have test buttons on the front face of them, which can be tested by you every 3-6 months just by pressing those buttons in. This will help ensure your RCD is functioning correctly.
Q: Can I just get rid of the RCD if it’s causing a problem?
A: No. Current WA Electrical Legislation demands that all circuits require RCD protection in domestic properties.