RCBO Keeps Tripping
- How urgent
- Caution
- Who fixes it
- An electrician
What's happening?
An RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent protection) combines the functions of an MCB and an RCD in a single device. It protects a single circuit against overload, short circuit, and earth leakage. When an RCBO trips, it could be due to any of these fault types. The advantage is that only the affected circuit loses power, not half your house.
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What usually causes it?
- Earth leakage from a faulty appliance or damaged cable on that circuit
- Overload on the circuit from too many appliances
- Short circuit in the wiring or an appliance
- Moisture ingress into a fitting on that circuit
- Faulty RCBO that has become oversensitive
- Cumulative earth leakage from multiple appliances on the circuit
Is it dangerous?
The same risks apply as with MCB and RCD faults. The RCBO is providing protection, so the underlying fault is what matters. The good news is that only the faulty circuit is affected, so the rest of your home retains power.
Can I fix it myself?
Check which RCBO has tripped and its circuit label. Most RCBOs have a small indicator or flag showing whether they tripped on overload (overcurrent) or earth leakage (RCD function). This helps narrow down the fault type. Unplug all appliances on that circuit and try resetting. If it holds, plug things back in one at a time.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician if the RCBO trips with nothing on the circuit, if it keeps tripping regardless of what you do, if the trip indicator shows earth leakage and you cannot find the source, or if the RCBO itself appears damaged or will not latch.
What will the electrician actually do?
- Determine whether the RCBO is tripping on overcurrent or earth leakage
- Test the circuit with insulation resistance and loop impedance tests
- Check all fittings on the circuit for moisture, damage, or loose connections
- Test the RCBO itself to verify correct operation
- Repair the underlying fault on the circuit
- Replace the RCBO if it is faulty or oversensitive
Who fixes this
What it usually costs
- Electrical Fault Finding Cost
- Priced on survey
Questions people ask
What is an RCBO and how is it different from an MCB?
Is an RCBO board better than a split-load RCD board?
How do I tell if it tripped on overcurrent or earth leakage?
Can I replace an RCBO myself?
Sources & References
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