In England, under BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition), Amendment 2 (2022), you are required to use Type A RCDs for new installations or when adding new circuits to an existing consumer unit. This is due to increased use of electronic devices that generate DC leakage currents, which Type AC RCDs are not designed to detect effectively.
Type A RCDs vs Type AC RCDs
Key Points:
Type AC RCDs: Only detect pure AC currents. They may not provide protection where there are DC components, which can occur in modern appliances (e.g., washing machines, LED lighting).
Type A RCDs: Detect both AC and pulsating DC residual currents, offering more comprehensive protection.
Changes to RCD Regulations
The 18th Edition of BS 7671 requires that Type A RCDs are used where there's a possibility of DC leakage from modern electronic devices (Regulation 531.3.3). Although Type AC RCDs can still be used in specific legacy installations, they are not considered compliant with current standards for new circuits or consumer units where modern appliances are involved. To fully prootect your Bexley home, type A RCDs should be installed.
Type A RCD Installation in Bexley
You must install Type A RCDs when adding new circuits to an existing consumer unit in order to comply with BS 7671, particularly given the widespread use of appliances with DC leakage components.
If you would like more information, or to find out if the RCD in your Bexley home is the correct type, get in touch with our friendly team.
