Electricians have many responsibilities when it comes to working on-site. However one of the main things they should know is how to perform a residual current device (RCD) test. When a person thinks about safety, the first thing that typically comes to mind is an RCD.
Testing and tagging Canberra owner Ryan Hasson explains that an RCD is a safety device used in electrical installations to protect people from electric shock. An RCD test is a test performed on an electrical installation to ensure that all the electronic devices in the facility are working properly.
The following list explains why your electrician performs a crucial procedure known as an RCD test.
To ensure the safety of people in the event of an electrical fault
An RCD is designed to trip and cut off the power in the event of an electrical fault, thereby preventing people from being injured by electric shock. It is therefore important to ensure that the RCD is working properly by performing regular tests.
To comply with health and safety regulations
There are health and safety regulations governing the use of electrical appliances, and regularly checking for proper RCD operation is a requirement of the regulations.
To check if other equipment in the home is properly wired
In some cases, it may be necessary to use an RCD tester on all of the sockets in a house to ensure that they are all wired with three-core flexible cable (as opposed to two-core). If using the tester shows problems with one or more sockets, electricians can fix them before any accidents occur.
To avoid potential damage to expensive electrical goods
There are many delicate electronic devices that need safe handling during installation, such as computers and televisions. Improper wiring could severely damage these items due to excess current or voltage. An RCD test can help to avoid this by detecting any wiring problems before they become an issue.
To identify faulty appliances
Some appliances, such as kettles and toasters, can be prone to short circuits. If an RCD test is performed and a short circuit is detected, the appliance can be safely removed from use until it has been repaired.
To prevent fires from starting
Electrical faults can often lead to sparks and heat, both of which are potentially dangerous and could easily start a fire if left unchecked. An RCD test will help to detect these faults before they have a chance to cause any damage.
To protect people from electrical shocks
As well as preventing fires, RCDs prevent people from being exposed to electric shocks. There have been a number of shocking incidents where people have been severely injured or killed by electricity – an RCD test will help to keep these accidents from occurring.
To make homes look more attractive when viewed by potential buyers
The condition of electrical appliances is often one of the first things that potential buyers ask about during a viewing. If an RCD test has recently been performed and everything appears in order, this could help to boost the value of a house before a sale is agreed upon.
To reassure occupants that their home is safe and free from fire hazards
Performing regular RCD tests helps to give homeowners peace of mind that their home is safe and that they are not at risk of an electrical fire.
To maintain a good relationship with insurance companies
If an RCD test is carried out and faults are found, insurance companies may be more likely to offer reduced premiums or cover for any damages that may occur as a result of an electrical fault.
To keep up with the latest safety standards
Safety standards for electrical installations are constantly changing and evolving. An RCD test is one way of ensuring that your home’s wiring is up to date with the latest safety requirements.
In case of a power outage
In the event of a power outage, it may be necessary to manually reset all of the RCDs in your home in order to restore power. Without regular RCD tests, it would be impossible to know if this is necessary.
For peace of mind
RCD testing gives homeowners the reassurance that everything is in order with their wiring and electrical appliances. This helps to prevent accidents from occurring and could even save lives.