Why is it a good thing your RCD safety switch ‘tripped’?
It always seems to happen as you’re rushing to get ready for work or when dinner is on the go, the safety switch ‘trips’ and your appliances shut down. The fridge clunks to a halt, the hair dryer stops blowing, and the TV goes blank.
Something has tripped the safety switch, which, even though it doesn’t seem like it when you’re running out the door in a half-ironed shirt eating a piece of warm bread, is actually a good thing.
It means this essential electrical safety device has potentially prevented a fatal accident in your home. Safety switches activate in around .03 of a second cutting the supply of electricity to the circuit fast enough to prevent serious harm from an electric shock.
Reasons your safety switch might trip
The safety switch is triggered by a detected change in the flow of electricity through the circuit it is fitted to. Many problems can cause this change in flow, common issues can include:
- Overloaded power points or power boards
- Faulty appliances or lights
- Faults in your homes wiring
- Water – Has it rained recently or is there a sprinkler hitting an outdoor power point?
What to do
- Try to reset the switch by flicking it back to the ‘ON’ position. Sometimes the issue is temporary and the safety switch will reset easily.
- If the switch does not reset, unplug all appliances and turn off all lights. Appliances must be unplugged, simply turning off at the power point is not enough.
Don’t forget the hidden power points, like the one behind the fridge, washing machine, or dishwasher as well as any outdoor appliances which may be plugged in. - Reset the switch. If the safety switch still fails to reset call us on (02) 60 211 510 or book online as soon as possible.
Note – For all tenants, if your safety switch does not reset after Step 3. please contact your property manager to discuss the best course of action.
- If the switch resets, plug your appliances back in one at a time. Usually, the faulty appliance will cause the safety switch to trip once it’s plugged in and turned on, clearly identifying the culprit.
- Make sure that power points which could be experiencing overload are not reconnected. Spread the appliances across several sockets or call us on (02) 60 211 510 or book online to install a new power point.
- For your safety do not use the faulty appliance until it has been checked and fixed by an appliance repair technician.
- If your safety switch trips regularly get it checked out to ensure it’s working correctly and providing protection for your family from electrical accidents.