Why I might need to upgrade your RCD to TYPE A?

With the relatively new introduction of mobile phones, and other forms of technology comes a different type of power! In the past many of our appliances only ran on "AC" power (Alternating Current), however newer technology has moved over to 'DC' power (Direct Current) and one of the reasons why is because DC power is more efficient than AC power - DC produces less heat in simple terms and therefore it is less wasteful, something we can all get on-board with with our electricity prices as they are! HOWEVER, the problem with DC current is that it can actually 'blind' an AC type RCDs which are the most common type of RCD in the UK right now, if you've not had you Consumer Unit upgraded recently then it'll most likely be an AC TYPE...

If you'd like to check what type of RCD you have protecting you and your family take a look at the symbols below:

The symbols that will indicate which type of RCD you have. A Type A detects both AC and DC currents, but an AC Type can become blinded.

In the video below you will find an explanation about the Type A RCD... and why you might need to upgrade your RCD to a Type A.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_kVJ1TxVxk

What is a Type A RCD?

What do I mean by RCD Blinding?

By blind, I mean not work! And so, this can be a danger to life. There are some tests that can be run to check if DC currents are interfering, but in most cases it will just be more cost effective to change the RCD and be done with it!!

What is an RCD and how do they work?

The video below explains how an RCD works and why they're such an important part of your homes electrical installation!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtD2_BXhkyc

How an RCD works?

If you like a good film with a little history then I would wholeheatily recommend The Current Wars, this explains how we ended up with AC Current and not DC - it's got Benderdict Cumerbatch

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFN-gcuGLj0

A film about the battle between AC and DC current... and how AC won the day!!

If you have any questions you can call Rich on 01761 325007 or email info@spellerssparks.co.uk - I complete anything from smaller electrical jobs (changing light fittings/sockets) to installing EV chargers and upgrading Consumer Units. If you have anything in mind then just get in touch!! I covers areas such as Wells, Somerset, Frome, Radstock, Holcombe, Oakhill and all the areas around and in between!

Visit my website here: https://www.spellerssparks.co.uk