Dan was really helpful and explained the problem well.
I was asked this week why I only fit RCBO consumer units with surge protection for my customers in Devon, and not the cheaper option of main switch and two RCD’s with main switches. As your local, qualified electrician in Newton Abbot, Devon I take your electrical safety seriously and will only recommend a product I trust. In this blog my aim is to explain why an RCBO consumer unit with surge protection is the best and safest option.
In today's modern world, electricity is an essential part of our lives. From powering our homes to fuelling our gadgets and appliances, we rely on electricity more than ever before. However, with great power comes great responsibility, especially when it comes to electrical safety.
Comprehensive Protection
One of the primary reasons for opting for a main switch with surge protection and RCBO in your Devon home is the comprehensive protection it offers. RCBOs are designed to provide both residual current protection and overcurrent protection in a single device. This means they can detect and disconnect the circuit not only in the event of a ground fault (residual current) but also in cases of overcurrent, such as a short circuit or overload. This double-layered protection significantly reduces the risk of electrical accidents, making your home safer.
Precision in Circuit Isolation
When you have two RCDs in your electrical distribution board, they are typically allocated to different circuits. This means that a fault in one circuit may not trip the RCD protecting another circuit. On the other hand, an RCBO is dedicated to a single circuit, providing precise isolation in case of a fault. This ensures that a fault in one circuit won't affect the power supply to other areas of your home, improving safety and minimising disruptions.
Enhanced Surge Protection
Surge protection is becoming increasingly important in our digital age. With the growing number of sensitive electronic devices in our homes, protecting them from power surges is crucial. Main switches with surge protection, combined with RCBOs, offer a robust defence against voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes or electrical disturbances. This added layer of protection can save you from costly repairs or replacements of your valuable electronics.
Simplified Fault Detection
In the event of a fault, troubleshooting becomes more straightforward with RCBOs. Since each circuit is protected by its own RCBO, you can quickly identify which circuit is experiencing the issue. This reduces downtime during repairs and minimises the inconvenience of a power outage.
Compliance with Regulations
The UK has stringent electrical safety regulations in place to protect homeowners and occupants. Opting for a main switch with surge protection and RCBO ensures compliance with these regulations, as they meet the requirements for both residual current protection and overcurrent protection. Staying compliant not only ensures your safety but also avoids potential legal issues that could arise from non-compliance.
As an electrician, electrical safety is a paramount concern, and the choice between a main switch with surge protection and RCBO versus a main switch with two RCDs should not be taken lightly. The former option offers comprehensive protection, precise fault isolation, enhanced surge protection, simplified fault detection, and compliance with regulations. These advantages make it the preferred choice for those who priorities safety and reliability in their electrical systems at their Devon homes. Ultimately, investing in the right electrical protection measures is an investment in the safety and well-being of your home and its occupants. When it comes to electrical safety, it's better to be proactive and ensure that your electrical distribution board is equipped with the best possible protection. Main switches with surge protection and RCBOs are a powerful combination that can
provide you with peace of mind and a safer living environment.
If your consumer unit is due for an upgrade, or if you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out and contact me.
A.M. Electrics are your local, reliable and fully qualified electrician in Newton Abbott, Devon.
