PYE  

Paul Yates Electrical

RCD

RCD  (Residual Current Device) sometimes built into the fusebox (consumer unit) or sometimes a separate box, or even moulded 13A plug.

Regulations require that all socket outlets that might be used for the supply of outdoors ( or garage, shed, etc) electricity, should be protected by a RCD. The most comprehensive approach to protecting these sockets is to fit a RCD to the ground floor ring main in or next to the main fusebox ( Consumer unit).

 One drawback can be occasional  tripping of the rcd due to temporary dampness or splashes, with the subsequent loss of power to personal computers (Can cause data loss) or loss of power to not only the socket circuits, but also the lighting circuits. For this reason a split load consumer unit can minimise the problems whilst providing the required protection.

Like a circuit breaker, a RCD needs to be re-set. They often have a small switch, which when tripped, will indicate OFF. Reset the RCD and if the problem or fault was transitory, then your RCD  will allow the circuit to function as normal. If however the fault is still present then RCD breaker will trip again (or resist the reset) and you will probably need to call a qualified electrician.
RCD's are extremely sensitive and a slightly wet washing machine or kettle base can easily cause the RCD to trip.

Most household sockets are connected to ring main circuits, usually protected by a 30 Amp fuse or 32 Amp circuit breaker.

Link to a leading manufacturers site for further information

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