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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Electrical Questions >> RCD query https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1231693502 Message started by ruth on Jan 11^th, 2009, 5:05pm

Title: RCD query
Post by ruth on Jan 11^th, 2009, 5:05pm

Hi, hope someone out there can help ! My washing machine had been finished it's cycle for half an hour. Before I got round to going to get the stuff out, the trip switch went off, which cuts off the power to the whole house. It's definately the washing machine doing it. The power switch on the machine was on, but it wasn't going, as the cycle had finished. I switched the machine off and unplugged it, then reset the trip switch, so the power's on to the rest of the house. When I plugged the washing machine back in and flicked the switch on the socket, the RCD went again, even though the washing machine wasn't switched on - how is this possible ? I'll admit my grasp of electrics is basic, but I don't see how this could happen. I've tried plugging it in to a different socket, and checked the fuse, though that seemed unlikely. I'm resigned to calling an electrician, but why does the RCD trip when i plug the machine back in ?

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by cosbycarl on Jan 11^th, 2009, 6:00pm

The cable attached to the washing machine may have developed a fault, or it could be something internal. The electrician you get in will be able to identify the cause.

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by Zambezi on Jan 11^th, 2009, 6:02pm

Your washing machine is faulty, which is why the RCD is doing it's job. Rather than calling an electrician you should either call an appliance repair person or take a trip to Currys.

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by Lectrician on Jan 11^th, 2009, 6:05pm

Sounds like a fault internal to the washing machine. As the washer will have an impedance between L and N, a fault from anywhere in the machine to earth will be present between L and E and N and E. A fault from N to E will trip an RCD regardless if the appliance or possibly the socket is turned on or off.

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by The_Trician on Jan 11^th, 2009, 11:14pm

Three words -

Faulty washing m/c!

Time for a new replacement.

TT

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by LSpark on Jan 11^th, 2009, 11:27pm

Washing machines often cause problems with RCD's as they get older and moisture gets in the connections.

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by CWatters on Jan 12^th, 2009, 6:39pm

The RCD might just have saved your life. Best leave it unplugged until you get it looked at.

If you were thinking of getting it replaced due to it's age then now would be a good time. Otherwise it's might be repairable. Did you take out an extended warranty etc?

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by Twobarrows on Feb 17^th, 2009, 4:59pm

If you took out an extended warranty you may want to take this opportunity now to get your head tested as well!

Title: Re: RCD query
Post by CWatters on Feb 18^th, 2009, 3:14pm

;D ;D