RCD Tripping – What Causes It & How To Fix It

Introduction

A Residual Current Device (RCD) is an important safety feature designed to protect people from electric shock and reduce the risk of electrical fires. When an RCD trips repeatedly, it usually means there is an electrical fault that must be investigated.

If the problem continues, it is safest to contact a qualified electrician in london to inspect your system properly.

What Is an RCD and Why Does It Trip?

An RCD monitors the flow of electricity in a circuit. If it detects an imbalance between live and neutral, it assumes electricity is leaking to earth and cuts the power within milliseconds.

This fast reaction prevents serious electric shock and fire hazards. Frequent tripping indicates an underlying fault that should not be ignored.

Main Causes of RCD Tripping

1. Faulty Appliances

Appliances such as kettles, washing machines, or heaters can develop insulation faults and leak current to earth, causing the RCD to trip.

2. Damaged or Old Wiring

Frayed cables, loose connections, or outdated wiring systems can cause earth faults, especially in older properties.

3. Moisture in Electrical Circuits

Water entering outdoor sockets, garden lighting, or damp indoor areas can trigger the RCD by creating leakage paths.

4. Overloaded Circuits

Running too many high-power devices on one circuit can create instability and repeated RCD tripping.

5. Faulty or Over-Sensitive RCD

In some cases, the RCD itself may be defective or too sensitive for the electrical system and trip without a serious fault.

How to Fix RCD Tripping

Step 1: Basic Checks

Reset the RCD. If it trips immediately, the fault is likely in the wiring or a fixed appliance. If it holds for a short time, an appliance may be the cause.

Step 2: Isolate the Fault

Switch off all circuit breakers and unplug all appliances. Reset the RCD, then turn circuits and appliances back on one at a time to identify the faulty circuit or device.

Step 3: Professional Diagnosis

If the problem continues, a professional electrician can use specialist testing equipment to locate hidden wiring faults safely.

How to Prevent Future Problems

• Test your RCD every three months using the test button
• Book regular electrical safety inspections
• Use weatherproof fittings for outdoor electrics
• Avoid overloading sockets and extension leads
• Replace old or unsafe wiring where necessary

When to Call an Emergency Electrician

You should seek urgent help if your RCD will not reset or if you notice burning smells, sparks, or flickering lights. These signs may indicate a serious fault that could cause fire or electric shock.

Call now for a free consultation: 02034882928

London Emergency Electrician

Conclusion

An RCD that keeps tripping is a clear warning sign that something is wrong with your electrical system. Common causes include faulty appliances, damaged wiring, moisture, overloaded circuits, or a defective RCD unit.

For safe and reliable repairs, contact a trusted london electrician to investigate and resolve the issue properly.