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RCD – Tripping Power

RCD Tripping

How to reset your RCD

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?

Follow our step-by-step guide below:

Step 1)

  • Turn off 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, the RCD is faulty; call Boss Electrical for a replacement!
  • 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
  • Now turn the RCD on
  • Progressively, turn each circuit breaker back on, one by one, until it trips
  • This will help identify the source of the problem – now go to Step 3

Step 3)

  • Unplug all appliances in your home from the power outlets
  • A few tricky ones that are sometimes forgotten 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)

  • Now try plugging your appliances back in one by one, until you find your culprit appliance causing the fault
  • If the problem still persist, call Boss Electrical.

Note: If the fault is occurring on another circuit, then contact Boss Electrical.

Common Faults

– Crushed leads

– Plugs or leads left in the weather

– Fridges or pond pumps

– Kettles, toasters, other small appliances

– 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.