Possible Earth Fault

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I tried to replace a LV transformer for some downlighter the other day but couldn't turn the power off!! I know this sounds odd but initially I tried removing each fuse, still power to the junction box in the loft. I then turned the power off at the consumer unit and still there was a residual current showing at the junction box. I only tested this with a standard electrical screwdriver so cannot be sure what the voltage is. Needless to say this worried me so I explored around the house and found at the copper pipe in the airing cupboard also gives me an electrical reading.

Is this a live/earth crossover and if so how can this happen with the consumer unit turned off?

Help cause its driving me insane
 
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possible cause broken neutral conductor giving a return path via a peice of equipment/lamp etc.
if you have a pme system(earth) then the earth and the neutral are conneted at the transformer(ie supply authority transformer).
It is possible that you do not have an earth path in you home in any case you cross bonding must be fauly otherwise all of your pipes etc would be at the same potention.

It appears that its voltage you are checking not current. and this voltage could be low.

It is essential the you ask a qualified electrician with proper test kit to check your installation.

ou may also have a faulty main switch in your consumer unit. none of this is difficult to check nor should it be costly to correct. I hopr this helps.
 
I hat those screwdivers, they give false readings, as for those testers you hold in proximity to a cable, they are worse,you can not beat a meter
 

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