Replace RCD or install an additional RCD
Test button no longer working, or need an RCD for the charging point? Call 070 783 0224.
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An RCD (residual current device) cuts off the power if current is leaking, for example due to a faulty appliance or moisture. It is there for your safety. If it no longer works, or if it is missing on a circuit that needs one, replacing or installing one is a quick job. Below you can read when this is necessary and how to test it yourself first.
Short answer: when do you replace an RCD (residual current device)?
Replace an RCD if it doesn't trip when you press the test button, if it won't stay up whilst all appliances are unplugged, or if it's damaged or discoloured. If an RCD is missing on a circuit for an EV charging point or outdoor socket, we'll install one. You'll receive a tailored price in advance.
- Press the test button a few times a year: the switch should trip immediately.
- Does it trip with one appliance? Then usually that appliance is the cause, not the RCD.
- If you smell burning, the cupboard is warm or there are black marks: don't touch it yourself, call us.
Call me back
Leave your name and number and we'll call you. Prefer immediate contact? Call 070 783 0224 or message us.
First yourself: is the RCD faulty or something else?
- Test button. Press the button marked T. The switch must trip immediately. If it doesn't, it's not working properly and needs to be replaced.
- Does it keep tripping? Unplug everything from the sockets on those circuits and switch it back up. If it stays up, plug the appliances back in one by one. If it trips at one appliance, that's where the fault is.
- Does it keep tripping with no appliances connected? Then the fault is in a fixed connection (lighting, outdoor lamp, water heater) or in the switch itself. That's a job for the electrician.
More background on tripping: RCD trips, what now? and electrical fault.
When we replace or add an RCD
- Faulty RCD. The test button does nothing, the lever will not stay in position or the RCD is discoloured. We replace it with a new one of the same type and test afterwards.
- EV charging point. A charging point must be properly protected with a suitable RCD. If an inspection reveals it's missing or not working, we'll install or replace it.
- Outdoor socket or garden shed. Outdoors, moisture is the biggest enemy. A waterproof outdoor socket with its own RCD costs € 395 excl. VAT (€ 477.95 incl.).
- Selling your home. A buyer or surveyor sometimes asks about the meter cupboard. If an RCD is missing or all circuits are behind one RCD, that's a common point. We can bring the cupboard up to standard beforehand.
- Old fuse box with one RCD. Then when there's one fault, the whole house goes out. Often a new fuse box with multiple RCDs is the better solution: see fuse box replacement: costs.
What does replacing an RCD cost?
A single RCD is not listed as a fixed price in our tariff list, because the type and condition of the consumer unit varies per property.
| Item | Excl. VAT | Incl. 21% VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Replace or install RCD | custom price | after photo of the fuse box |
| Starting rate if we need to investigate first (30 min + diagnosis) | € 100 – € 165 | € 121 – € 199,65 |
| Waterproof outdoor socket incl. RCD | € 395 | € 477,95 |
| Replace fuse box single-phase, incl. main switch and RCDs | € 900 – € 1.520 | € 1.089 – € 1.839,20 |
No fixed price in our tariff list for this work: you receive a tailored quote, usually after just a few photos via WhatsApp. If we need to visit first, we charge the starting rate (first 30 minutes + diagnosis): € 100 – € 165 excl. VAT (€ 121 – € 199.65 incl.), plus call-out charge € 35 excl. VAT (€ 42.35 incl.). You always hear the price before we start.
When you shouldn't touch the fuse box yourself
Anyone can press the test button and reset the switch. Opening the fuse box is not allowed: behind the cover are parts that are always live, even when the main switch is off. Call us immediately if you notice any of these things:
- a burning smell or crackling from the meter cupboard;
- a cupboard or switch that feels warm;
- black or melted spots;
- a switch that trips without anything being on, repeatedly.
Is there water in or near the meter cupboard due to a leak? Then do not reset anything and call us. A leak in the meter cupboard is an emergency job (€ 285.95 excl. VAT (€ 346 incl.)).
Questions about the RCD
How do I know if my RCD is broken?
Press the test button. If the switch doesn't trip immediately, it's not working properly. A switch that won't stay up when nothing is connected is also suspect.
My RCD has tripped. May I reset it?
Yes, once. If it trips again immediately, unplug all appliances from those circuits and try again. If it keeps tripping without appliances, call an electrician.
How often should I test the RCD?
Pressing the test button a few times a year is a good habit. That way you know it works when it's needed.
Does an EV charging point need its own RCD protection?
Yes, an EV charging point must be properly protected. Which protection is suitable depends on the charging point; that's stated in the manufacturer's installation instructions. We'll include it when connecting.
What does a new RCD cost?
That depends on the type and your consumer unit. You will receive a custom price, usually after a photo. If we need to investigate first, the starting rate of € 100 – € 165 excl. VAT (€ 121 – € 199.65 incl.) applies.
Can an RCD wear out?
Yes. After many years or after many trips, the mechanism can become slower or stiffer. That's why the test button is so important.