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What Types of Electrical Faults Can Occur?
 

What Types of Electrical Faults Can Occur?

Electrical faults range from blown fuses to dangerous earth faults. This article explores the most common types and how RCD Electrical expertly detects and resolves them across London homes and businesses.
Electrical faults range from blown fuses to dangerous earth faults. This article explores the most common types and how RCD Electrical expertly detects and resolves them across London homes and businesses.

Electrical faults can happen at any time—without warning and often when least convenient. Whether it’s a tripped circuit, a burning smell, or total power loss, faults are more than just a nuisance—they pose real risks to safety and property.
At RCD Electrical, we specialise in diagnosing and resolving all types of electrical faults quickly and safely across London.

Let’s explore the most common types of faults we encounter, how they present themselves, and why professional intervention is always the best course of action.

ELECTRICAL FAULT FINDING IN LONDON

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1. Short Circuit Faults

A short circuit occurs when electrical current bypasses the intended path, creating a direct connection between live conductors. This causes a sudden spike in current, leading to:

  • Circuit breakers tripping instantly

  • Buzzing sounds

  • Burn marks or melted components

  • Fire risk

Common causes: exposed wires, damaged insulation, faulty sockets or light fittings.

At RCD Electrical, we use specialist testing to locate short circuits hidden within walls, floorboards, or consumer units without causing unnecessary disruption.

2. Earth Faults

An earth fault happens when live electrical parts accidentally come into contact with the earth (ground), usually due to insulation failure. This can be extremely dangerous, leading to electric shocks or fire.

Signs of an earth fault:

  • RCDs tripping repeatedly

  • Electric shocks from appliances

  • Sparks near sockets or switches

We employ insulation resistance testing and earth fault loop impedance checks to locate the precise cause and repair it with full compliance to UK wiring regulations.

3. Open Circuit Faults

These occur when the flow of electricity is interrupted completely due to a break in the circuit. You may notice:

  • Dead sockets or switches

  • Light fittings not working

  • Loss of power to a particular room

Common causes: loose connections, damaged wires, or corrosion.
These faults can be deceptively simple on the surface but tricky to locate—especially in older properties.

4. Overload Faults

Overloading occurs when too much current is drawn through a circuit. For example, plugging too many high-powered devices into a single extension lead can exceed a circuit's rated capacity.

Warning signs:

  • Frequent fuse blowouts

  • Circuit breakers tripping under normal use

  • Warm sockets or plugs

At RCD Electrical, we assess the full demand on your system and may recommend redistributing loads, installing additional circuits, or upgrading your consumer unit.

5. Intermittent Faults

These are the most frustrating—and often the most dangerous. An intermittent fault may cause:

  • Flickering lights

  • RCDs tripping randomly

  • Power cutting out sporadically

  • Appliances turning off unexpectedly

Because these faults don’t present consistently, they require in-depth investigation using timed test equipment and circuit isolation techniques. RCD Electrical’s fault-finding team is trained to track even the most elusive problems.

6. High Resistance Faults

This type of fault causes a build-up of heat at points where resistance has increased—often due to corroded terminals, loose connections, or aging components.

Symptoms:

  • Burning smells

  • Buzzing or crackling sounds

  • Discolouration around switches/sockets

Left unchecked, high resistance faults can lead to fire, particularly in concealed locations. That’s why early professional inspection is crucial.

How RCD Electrical Diagnoses and Fixes Faults

We approach fault finding in three stages:

  1. Initial Inspection
    We begin with a visual and physical inspection of the affected area, asking questions to understand the pattern of the fault.

  2. Testing and Tracing
    Using calibrated equipment (including multimeters, insulation testers, and RCD analysers), we trace the fault to its origin—whether in the wiring, consumer unit, or an appliance.

  3. Reporting and Repair
    Once diagnosed, we provide a clear explanation and quote before carrying out any work. We always aim for same-day resolution where possible.

Our team is NICEIC-certified and up to date with BS 7671 wiring regulations, ensuring every job is done safely and correctly.

Why Electrical Faults Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Even a seemingly minor issue like a flickering light can be the first sign of a serious underlying fault. Electrical fires, damaged appliances, or shock hazards can escalate quickly if not addressed.

If you notice unusual noises, smells, discolouration, or repeated tripping, contact RCD Electrical straight away. Early intervention saves money—and could save lives.

Book a Fault Finding Visit Today

Don’t leave your safety to chance. If you suspect any electrical fault, big or small, call RCD Electrical today for prompt and professional support:

02034882928
info@rcdelectrician.co.uk

We offer fault finding, emergency repairs, full rewiring, EICRs, and preventative solutions across London homes and businesses.

ELECTRICAL FAULT FINDING IN LONDON

Call now and get 20% discount.

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