About this service
An RCD monitors the balance of current flowing in a circuit or group of circuits and disconnects quickly when leakage indicates a possible shock risk. An RCBO combines residual-current protection with overcurrent protection for one circuit.
Upgrading protection can reduce electric-shock risk and limit how much of the property loses power when a fault occurs. The correct device type and arrangement depend on connected equipment, existing wiring and the consumer-unit design.
Common problems we help with
Sockets or outdoor equipment lack additional protection
Older installations may have circuit-breakers or fuses without residual-current protection.
One RCD trips several circuits
A fault on one circuit can switch off lighting, heating, refrigeration and other unrelated loads.
RCD trips with modern equipment
Accumulated leakage, unsuitable device type, damaged equipment or wiring faults can cause unwanted operation.
Test button does not operate correctly
An RCD that fails its functional test needs professional investigation.
How we carry out the work
Assess circuits and leakage
We test the installation and consider the connected equipment before changing protective devices.
Select the right arrangement
Options may include individual RCBOs, additional RCD protection or a wider consumer-unit upgrade.
Test trip performance
New or existing residual-current devices are functionally and instrument-tested, with circuits checked before handover.
What is normally included?
- Initial discussion about the property, symptoms, priorities and timescale
- Assessment of the relevant circuit, equipment, access and existing protection
- A written scope for the proposed rcd & rcbo protection work
- The agreed installation or repair work, with disruption kept to a reasonable minimum
- Inspection, electrical testing and appropriate handover documentation
Before the work starts
- Condition of existing circuits before new protective equipment is fitted
- Available space, circuit identification and future capacity
- Earthing, bonding and supply characteristics
- How essential equipment will be managed during isolation and testing
What affects the price?
The price depends on the existing installation and the amount of work required. For rcd & rcbo protection, the main factors normally include:
- Circuit quantity and board configuration
- Defects revealed by pre-work or completion testing
- Meter tails, earthing and bonding alterations
- Labelling, containment and any necessary relocation
Testing, certificates and handover
Once the installation work is complete, we inspect and test it and provide the records that apply to the job.
- Updated circuit schedule and protective-device labels
- Test results and applicable installation certificate
- Guidance on testing residual-current devices
- Explanation of any separately identified future recommendations
RCD & RCBO Protection questions
What is the difference between an RCD and RCBO?
An RCD may protect several circuits against earth leakage. An RCBO provides earth-leakage and overcurrent protection to one circuit.
Will RCBOs stop every electrical shock?
No device removes every risk. Correct wiring, earthing, bonding, equipment selection and safe use all remain important.
Can RCBOs be fitted in any consumer unit?
Only compatible devices approved for the particular assembly should be used. Sometimes the board must be upgraded.
Booking the work
What happens after you contact us
1. Discuss the job
Tell us about the property, the symptoms or the result you want. Photographs and model numbers are often helpful.
2. Inspect and quote
We check the relevant installation and give you a written quotation showing what is included.
3. Complete and test
We carry out the agreed work, verify it electrically and explain any controls, labels or certificates at handover.