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Many people across Newton Abbot and the surrounding areas plug in extra extension leads or sockets every day. Some of these say “RCD protected” but what if your home already has RCD protection at the fuse board? Let’s look at what it means and whether you actually need it.
Understanding RCDs in Your Home – Bovey Tracey
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a safety device that protects you from electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires. It constantly monitors the flow of electricity, and if it detects a fault, such as a current leaking to earth it instantly cuts the power.
Most modern homes around Bovey Tracey already have RCDs built into their consumer units. You can identify them by the small “test” buttons on the switches. These are vital for keeping your family safe.
What Happens When You Use an RCD Extension Lead – Chudleigh
If you plug an RCD extension lead into a socket that’s already RCD-protected, you’re doubling up on protection. While that sounds good, it can cause issues.
When a fault occurs, both RCDs may trip, or the one on the extension might trip first, which makes it harder to find the fault. In some cases, both can trip at once, cutting power to everything on the circuit.
So, in most cases around Chudleigh, it’s best to avoid doubling up your RCDs unless you have a specific reason to.
Do You Need a Separate RCD Extension? – Teignmouth
If your sockets are already RCD-protected at the consumer unit, you don’t need another RCD on your extension lead. It won’t make you safer and might just cause unnecessary tripping.
However, if you’re not sure your sockets are protected, or if you’re using tools outside — for example, mowing the lawn or cleaning the car, then an RCD extension lead is still a smart idea for added safety.
A simple rule to remember for homes in Teignmouth:
- RCD on consumer unit → use a standard extension.
- No RCD protection → use an RCD extension.
Checking Your RCD Protection – Torbay and Exeter
If you’re based in Torbay or Exeter, it’s easy to check whether your home already has RCD protection. Look at your fuse board: if you see switches labelled RCD or RCBO with a “Test” button, you’re covered. Press the button — if the power trips, your RCD is working properly.
If it doesn’t, or if you’re unsure what you’re looking at, it’s time to call in a qualified electrician to check your system safely.
Local RCD Testing and Safety Checks – Newton Abbot & Surrounding Areas
If you’re unsure whether your home is RCD-protected or not, our team at A.M Electrics Devon Ltd can help. We carry out RCD testing, socket safety checks, and electrical inspections across Newton Abbot, Bovey Tracey, Chudleigh, Teignmouth, Torbay, and Exeter.
Your safety is our priority, and we’ll make sure your electrical system meets current regulations and is safe for everyday use.