Do all circuits need RCD protection 18th edition?

Requirements for RCD protection

With the exception of FELV and RLV sockets, all AC sockets that are rated up to 32A will require RCD protection, as opposed to just 20A. This is a life-saving regulation designed to prevent any electrical shocks to the installer working with live AC socket outlets.

Do all circuits have to be RCD protected 18th edition?

There is still an exception to omit RCD protection where, other than BA1, BA3 or children (BA2, BA3) and mobile equipment (not exceeding 32 A) for use outdoors, a suitably documented risk assessment determines that RCD protection is not necessary.

Do all circuits need RCD protection?

Separate RCD protection is not necessarily required for each circuit of an installation but, in order to minimize the likelihood and consequences of tripping, a single ('front end') RCD should not be used to protect all the circuits. Regulation number(s):

What requires RCD protection?

RCD protection is required for socket outlets which could be presumed used for outside of the equipotential zones (i.e. outside, providing there is equipotential bonding within the home) this could include an extension lead used for a vacuum cleaner or pressure washer or any outside cables feeding sheds etc.

Is RCD protection a legal requirement UK?

This is a legal requirement. In domestic properties, situations requiring mandatory RCD protection include: Properties supplied by a TT earthing arrangement (one with a local earth terminal, as opposed to an earth being provided by the distributor).

What's the difference between an RCD and an RCBO? - Circuit protection.

Does SWA need RCD protection 18th edition?

swa's steel armour is NOT accepted as sufficient protection for the cable when buried. there is no requirement to afford rcd protection to cables buried outside. socket circuits that COULD be used outdoors MUST have RCD protection, when this is a domestic installation.

What is an 18th edition consumer unit?

This new Regulation was introduced in the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations, it means that electrical installers have to provide RCD protection for all new lighting circuits, and for existing circuits which are significantly altered in domestic (household) premises.

Do I need RCD on lighting circuits?

RCD is a requirement for all circuits, including bathrooms, but the absence of this in an existing installation can only return an “improvement recommended” code of C3. It does not mean an unsatisfactory result, or require a new consumer unit!

What does the 18th edition cover?

The 18th Edition (also known as BS 7671 or wiring regs) is a British Standard for the installation of electrical wiring. The guidelines set out by IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology) cover the installation of new electrical appliances and maintenance of existing ones, including any additions or alterations.

Does fixed equipment need RCD protection?

The default answer is yes, unless there is a documented risk assessment stating no such protection is necessary.

Does no RCD protection fail EICR?

If the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is Satisfactory then you do not need to replace the consumer unit, even if it does not have RCD protection. RCDs are only required by law in new builds, additions/alterations or rewires.

Does a rented property have to have RCD protection?

In short No. Although its strongly advisable to have RCD protection fitted in a rental property as it could save the tenant from a fatal electric shock as well as prevent a fire. Your legal duty of care is to provide a safe and habitable property.

When can an RCD be omitted?

For sockets not in 2-12 above and, not in a dwelling, RCD protection may be omitted if there is a documented formal Risk Assessment that determines RCD protection is not necessary.

Do all electricians need 18th edition?

From 01 January 2020, when Registered Electricians renew their card they must hold the 18th Edition. Without the 18th Edition, cardholders will revert back to a standard Installation or Maintenance Electrician card.

Does 18th edition need surge protection?

Surge protection devices (SPD) are a requirement under the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations and essential in protecting equipment from damage.

Do bathroom lights need to be RCD protected?

Electric showers require their own electrical circuit, which in general will have the highest electrical demand out of your household appliances. All circuits in a bathroom must be protected by a RCD (Residual Current Device).

What's new in the 18th edition wiring regs?

The new Chapter 46 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations discusses non-automatic local and remote isolation and switching when these measures are used to prevent or remove dangers associated with electrical installations and equipment.

Do commercial lights need to be RCD protected?

Yup - Commercial lighting - there's no need to use RCDs.

Is earth bonding still required?

Supplementary equipotential bonding (between waste pipes, metallic service pipes and earth connections of bathroom equipment) is no longer required if, and only if, the main bonding between metal service pipes can be proved to be continuous.

What code has no RCD protection on lighting circuits?

BPG4 recommends that the EICR code for no RCD in this instance would be a C3 – IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDED. Be aware that a lot of electricians will code this as a C2 – POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS if there is no supplementary bonding.

Does a water heater need RCD protection?

Answer: The reason for RCD protection depends on the method of cable installation methods, if cables were surface mounted, then it would be quite acceptable to give no code. There is no requirement in BS 7671, to provide an immersion heater with RCD protection.

Do air conditioning units need RCD protection?

Many electricians are unaware that air conditioning systems require a rating high than 30mA and it has to be said most of the time a 30Ma RCD will work. But if you are a electrician of air conditioning engineer with a issue with a RCD which keeps blowing it just might not be rated for the project.

Does Garage supply need RCD?

As long as the garage supply is protected by the rcd in the consumer unit that's all that's required. Do check it though just in case the circuit breaker supplying the garage is on a non rcd part of the consumer unit.

Do plastic consumer units need to be replaced 2021?

Old style plastic consumer units no longer meet new regulations, however they don't need to be replaced. So long as their safety features are up to date (such as old MCBs updated to RCBOs) and they are fully enclosed in a non-combustible casing, they can remain in the property.

Can you still use 17th edition consumer units?

These can still legitimately be used in non-domestic situations (e.g. small offices etc) and possibly detached domestic outbuildings. Likewise AC type RCDs might still be OK for some situations - you pays your money and you takes your choice.