Extension lead - rcd/thermal cut out query

daggy

Hi folks

I need a new extension lead which will be used to operate tools outside and I'm a little confused about what I should get.


Could someone explain the difference between an rcd and a thermal cut out?

Do I need an rcd?

Thanks

squeekswhenwalking

An rcd helps protect you from electrocution and is a must, especially for outside work. It is also compulsory to fit rcd's to new consumer units feeding sockets in houses. The thermal cutout merely protects your extension lead from overheating, especially if lead is used when not fully unwound

pitkin2020

as above. Easiest thing is to get a separate RCD plug which your extension lead would plug into, like http://www.amazon.co.uk/Masterplug-ARCDKG-Safety-RCD-Adaptor/dp/B000RZDNZM
They have a tendancy to get based about when they are attached to extension leads when being packed up moved about etc and can fail.