The Importance of RCD Protection in Homes

When it comes to protecting your family from electrical hazards, few devices are as vital—and as misunderstood—as the Residual Current Device, or RCD. In all homes, RCD protection is not just a smart addition—it’s a crucial safety feature that can quite literally save lives.


So, what is an RCD, and why should every home in Swindon and beyond have one installed? Let’s break it down.


What Is an RCD and How Does It Work?

An RCD is an earth fault device designed to prevent electric shock and reduce the risk of electrical fires. It works by constantly monitoring the flow of electricity through a circuit. According to the leading electrical charity Electrical Safety First, RCDs are life-saving devices.


⚡ If it detects any imbalance in current, this could be electricity leaking to earth or at worse case, through a person and it cuts the power in as little as 300 milliseconds.

✅ In simple terms: if you accidentally drill through a wire, or cut through an extension lead with a lawnmower, an RCD shuts off the power before it can cause serious harm.


Why Is RCD Protection So Important in 2025?

⚠️ 1. Increased Demand on Home Electrics

Modern homes are packed with electrical devices—phones, laptops, EV chargers, smart appliances. Older electrical systems weren’t designed to handle this level of demand, making RCD protection more important than ever.

🔥 2. Preventing Electrical Fires

Faulty appliances, damaged wiring, or moisture near sockets can cause electricity to leak—leading to fires. An RCD detects this fault before it turns dangerous.

🏡 3. Essential for Outdoor and Bathroom Electrics

High-risk areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and gardens are especially vulnerable to electrical accidents. RCD protection is a must-have for any circuits supplying power in these areas.


Is Your Home Already RCD Protected?

Not sure if your consumer unit (fuse box) has RCD protection? Here’s how to check:

🔍 Look for test buttons—RCDs have a clearly marked "T" or "Test" button.

🔌 Modern consumer units often have several RCDs or RCBOs (combined RCD + circuit breaker)

🧰 If your fuse box still uses rewireable fuses or lacks test buttons, it’s likely time for an upgrade


✅ Tip: Test your RCDs every six months by pressing the test button to make sure they’re working correctly


Legal Requirements and Building Regulations

In the UK, BS 7671 (the Requirements for Electrical Installations) require most circuits in homes include RCD protection. Importantly Part P of the Building Regulations require that all new electrical works must be carried out by a qualified person and notified to the local authority.


💡 If you’re having work done on:

  • New circuits
  • Consumer unit upgrades
  • Bathroom wiring
  • Lighting
  • Outdoor sockets

…it must be RCD protected and certified by a registered electrician.


Can I Add RCD Protection to any Home?

Yes! A professional electrician can:

🔧 Install an RCD-equipped consumer unit

🔧 Fit RCD-protected sockets in high-risk areas

🔧 Upgrade specific circuits with RCBOs for added safety

This is one of the most cost-effective and important upgrades you can make to your home’s electrical system.


Protect Your Home with Crannis Technology Services Ltd

At Crannis Technology Services Ltd, we help homeowners in Swindon and surrounding areas stay safe, fitting RCD to all installations, consumer unit upgrades, and full electrical inspections.


📞 Want to know if your home is protected? Contact us today on 01793 629629 to book an inspection or discuss upgrading your fuse box.

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