What Is RCD Testing?

RCD stands for the residual current device and is designed to provide effective defence against electrical faults. It keeps track of neutral and active current readings, flowing through a circuit. A sustained current flow is supposed to yield proximate readings between them.

The major difference in their reading is usually instigated by the flow of current to earth, indicating a fault in the electric circuit. This further poses a potential threat to human life.

When the reading differs above a specific value, RCD trips and stops the flow of current through the circuit it is connected to and hence, saves you from a lethal electric shock. RCD provides additional protection against unforeseen electrical incidents and is crucial to install in household and office areas. This blog will educate you with detail about RCD and its role as a life saviour.

1. Routine RCD test

Once you install the RCD, it is imperative to get it checked within a scheduled period for the best performance. The RCD is supposed to trip quickly, upon any faults in the electric circuit.

A competent technician would check the trip time as per Australian pre-decided standards, to gain insights into the efficiency of RCD. Fast trip time indicates lower chances of experiencing potential electrical hazards.

As per Australian standards, it is crucial to go through a push button test, at least once in six months. The testing can be carried out by local electrical experts who hold the necessary knowledge for the same.

The push button test would quickly yield the results about the working of RCD. Negligence towards testing may lead to fatal incidents.

2. Portable RCD

Non-portable RCDs immediately disable the flow of current from the circuit, upon any fault in power transfer. A portable RCD works similarly and reacts in case of any current leakage during their flow.

This saves one from suffering potential harm. They function in remote areas where the electric supply is unstable and do not have a reliable connection. In addition, it is also put to use during the use of electrical applications for extra protection.

Despite their valuable input in protection, portable RCDs are expensive and may not be able to function at their best for the protection of a community.

Its performance can be affected by several factors, such as low energy consumption, distance from energy-producing sources or outdated infrastructure. Note that the portable ones also require regular testing to ensure their efficiency.

3. Confirmation with the installation of RCD

To ensure the presence of RCD, You would need to check with the electrical panel, often situated in the utility room.

Look for the Switch labelled as RCD or Safety switch. Press the button to check its functioning status.

A properly working RCD will immediately trip off the current and confirm its efficiency. Go through the electrical plan of the house to check the mention of RCD protection.

However, if you are not feeling confident about checking with the presence for the same, seek help from a licensed electrician to have accurate information about the presence and functioning of RCD.

4. The push button test in RCD

This test is the quickest way to check the proficiency and overall performance of the RCD. It is critical to perform this test at least once every three months, to avoid last-moment crises.

It is safer to test on a portable RCD with the use of an external power supply connection. The test is performed by injection of current through the circuit of RCD via a push button. Any detection of an imbalance in the current flow shows the presence of a correctly working RCD.

To reduce risks of unforeseen electrical faults, it is strictly advised to request assistance from an expert electrician to carry out the push button test. Electrical test and tagging are essential to maintain updated records of RCD tests.

Avoid relying entirely on the push button tests to check the competence of RCD. It is better to go through the standardised process of testing for confirmed results.

The bottom line

People often ignore the importance of electrical safety until they suffer the consequences thereafter. That is why it is crucial to hire an experienced and trustworthy team.

They can provide you with professional RCD installation services, ensuring your safety and well-being. It’s better to be safe than sorry, hence opt for RCD installation and promote the use of the same for a better living.