RCD Tripping for no apparent reason

[Apache]

IF the RCD is 30 years old, then getting things properly tested may not be a bad idea.

Two thoughts for you (as an amateur myself)

1. a decent quality, 2nd hand RCD tester that would do you a ramp test and check the RCD is operating properly is £50 (linked below). Have a look on selling sites and Facebook marketplace as testers do go for very little money sometimes, and I believe are useful to have

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/18618712...DuQRLvUE8NRMQzKnzsXHMNDA==|tkp:Bk9SR8qt_eauYw
2. a cheaper option for fault-finding could be a cheap 30mA plug in RCD. We could hope that with it's lower sensitivity it may trip and leave the main RCD on - helping you narrow things down.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/15536777...fE2CbmA5SpnC6N30j1fs7C6xe6|tkp:Bk9SR5DxyueuYw

 

[dj.reynolds.]

Absolutely!

 

[Sid____]

Thanks for all the comments - practical and humorous.

No more tripping out since last reported, however, I've ordered the Kewtech RCD tester so watch this space for results.

 

[Murdoch]

Thanks for all the comments - practical and humorous.

No more tripping out since last reported, however, I've ordered the Kewtech RCD tester so watch this space for results.

Your money might have been better spent on a local competent spark

 

[Sid____]

I finally managed to trace the fault to one of the 2 pir outside lights while I was waiting for the rcd tester to arrive. It was a sealed unit but had condensation behind the glass. Not only that, when I cut the self-amalgamating tape from the connector block it was all wet!

Anyway, I took the light back, got a replacement and wired it through a little waterproof junction box. All now seems to be OK.

The rcd tester has now arrived and I am keen to test the 100mA RCD. However, before I do that I have a couple of questions:

1. The tester came without a mains lead. I have a spare computer lead that I can use with it but what rating fuse should I be fitting to the plug?

2. I am planning to unplug sensitive electronic equipment like computers & TV's before doing a ramp test but what about other appliances like oven, fridge, freezer, microwaves, door chime & bathroom fans etc. Should these be left connected/switched on?

 

[Murdoch]

The RCD should be tested on the load side with all circuits off

 

[Sid____]

Thank you

 

[Sid____]

Results of ramp test on 100mA rcd with all circuits off except for cooker radial which was needed for conducting the test since the test meter had just a 3 pin plug and no probes.

Tested 4 times:
70, 60, 60 & 70mA

Any comments?

 

[Mike P]

did you turn off or isolate the cooker? I would have been inclined to make a lead with open end to 13a socket!

 

[Sid____]

Yes, I turned off the cooker. Sorry if not clear. I used the 13A socket next to the cooker switch to plug in.

 

[C15JON]

You can hire test equipment e.g... https://national-instrument-hire.co.uk/rcd-testers

Could be worth a bit of googling to check for any local to you...?>

Useful link, thanks for sharing!