Published:
18 May 2011
Category:
Q&A
Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This Question of the Day concerns an inconsistently failing RCD. It is answered by SELECT:
Question: I have just replaced a socket outlet like-for-like. All tests were satisfactory until I tested the 30mA RCD on x1 operation - it failed, but on the x5 test it passed. Does this RCD need to be replaced?
Answer: If the RCD is manufactured to BS 4293 at x1, the device should operate in less than 200ms. For a BS EN 61008 device at x1 the device should open in less than 300ms. If you are sure that everything else is satisfactory in the circuit protected by the RCD, I would recommend that the device is replaced to ensure that it provides earth fault protection for fault currents 30mA up to the 150mA that trips the device.
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