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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Electrical Questions >> Possible defective R.C.D. Residual Current Device) https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1311628649 Message started by bracken on Jul 25^th, 2011, 10:17pm

Title: Possible defective R.C.D. Residual Current Device)
Post by bracken on Jul 25^th, 2011, 10:17pm

Have just installed an old RCD I acquired from clearing a relative's house, used now to feed mains current to an existing installation on my premises. (e.g. a lawnmower).
On TEST, orange light goes out - O.K.
On RESET, orange light comes on - O.K.

However, after some 1-2 hours in constant use, orange light goes out.
Current still flows, as evidenced by equipment being served still operational.

Is this normal or is this RCD defective?

Title: Possible defective R.C.D. Residual Current Device)
Post by Lectrician on Jul 26^th, 2011, 7:32am

This Topic was moved here from Just Talk by Lectrician.

Title: Re: Possible defective R.C.D. Residual Current Device)
Post by Goodsparks on Jul 26^th, 2011, 10:52pm

I would say that its buggered!

From the description it sounds like either a plugtop or adaptor type, if so a new adaptor will set you back a tenner from most DIY sheds - cheaper online. http://cpc.farnell.com/jsp/search/browse.jsp?N=411+2005+207684&Ntk=gensearch&Ntt=rcd+adaptor&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&D=*rcd*+*adaptor*

RCD adaptors have their uses and are ideal for people who regularly connect to unfamiliar power supplies (tradesman etc). If your consumer unit doesn't incorporate an RCD you really should be looking to upgrade to ensure the complete circuit is protected meaning you can never forget to plug-in the adaptor !