Explain types of RCD socket, pleeeez.

WIAWSNB

Thanks S62.

I don't actually have any nuisance tripping issues any more, other than the 'test' button on this socket also tripping the garage RCD in the house - that effectively makes me the nuisance.

Anyhoo, RCD socket to be replaced, and then it'll be protected by the single 'garage' RCD in the house. It will mean that the whole garage and PV will be shut off if a trip occurs, but that will hopefully be more than rare. :-)

vacheron

Section62

I'm not suggesting you DIY alter the garage earthing system, nor temporarily disconnect the CPC to test vacheron's theory, because both are potentially very dangerous. However, if you still have a problem with tripping it might be worth asking an electrician to quote you for converting the garage to TT if they think your circumstances are suitable for doing so.

Yes, don't do that, but you could test that theory by simply unplugging the devices plugged into the non-switched RCD socket that is tripping the garage CU RCD and then press the test switch (which is what I originally suggested above).

If the garage feed still trips, then my theory is blown out of the water! If not, it may still carry some potential (pardon the pun!) 😀

PS. Remember when you used to be able to quote people easily (and partially) on this forum before MSE upgraded the forum software with a commenting system that now totally inflexible and completely sucks! 🤦‍♂️

Section62

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81973230#Comment_81973230

I don't actually have any nuisance tripping issues any more, other than the 'test' button on this socket also tripping the garage RCD in the house - that effectively makes me the nuisance.

I'd call that 'nuisance tripping' rather than 'nuisance user'. The test button shouldn't cause upstream tripping in any normal circumstance.

You should be able to test the RCD socket regularly (as instructed) without other things tripping off - otherwise the inconvenience of resetting stuff would act as a disincentive to doing the regular testing.

I'm leaning towards the socket being faulty… or if it were really old then possibly a design which isn't compatible with more modern devices.

Unplugging the loads as vacheron suggests would be a worthwhile test. But one of the issues with tracking intermittent faults is trying to recreate the exact circumstances… for example something as basic as supply voltage fluctuations during the day could give differernt results at different times.

If changing the socket works, then it works. But worth keeping in mind there may be a latent fault in the instalation somewhere if you do further work on it in the future.

WIAWSNB

Replacing the socket will work, since it won't have an RCD.

I'll go and try unplugging and 'testing' the socket now.

Edit: The only thing plugged in was a long extension cable reel, rolled up, with now't at t'other end. I jabbed at the test button - trying to beat the speed of leccy… - and instant socket RCD trip and the whole garage - PV system et al. So, the house garage RCD tripped too. All now reset.

WIAWSNB

Standard, metal clad, double switched socket fitted. I'm happy.