LB Electrical Services

Why is my RCD tripping?!

Lawrence Brown · Sep 8, 2021 · 1 min read

RCD tripping troubleshooting

Problem solved!

An RCD (Residual Current Device) trips when it detects an imbalance between live and neutral current — typically caused by current leaking to earth. Common causes include:

  • Faulty appliances (fridge, washing machine, kettle)
  • Water ingress in outdoor sockets or light fittings
  • Damaged cable insulation
  • Faulty immersion heater or shower
  • Nuisance tripping from high protective current devices

Troubleshooting: Unplug all appliances, reset the RCD, then plug items back in one by one. If it trips with nothing plugged in, the fault is in the fixed wiring — call a qualified electrician immediately.

Never ignore a tripping RCD — it's a safety device protecting you from electric shock and fire.