Is there a problem with my Consumer Unit?

[SidDIYer]

Hi All,

I plugged in my hoover about a week ago and the plug fuse blew. The cable had worn out and the resulting bang left a black mark on the wall beneath the socket.

I was expecting the RCD at the consumer unit to trip but it didn't. Should it have? I tried the test button and it worked fine.

I have attached a photo - I reckon the unit was installed when the house was built c.1997.

Happy New Year.

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• SidDIYer
• 2 Jan 2011
• 1

 

[xr4x4]

are they switches/MCB's ????

 

[1john]

Those are cartridge fuse holders. Most vacuums are class two and you prob had a direct short from line to neutral so the fuse blew. The RCD picks up imbalances between line and neutral.

 

[SidDIYer]

Yes, they are fuse holders. I pulled one out and took another picture :

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• SidDIYer
• 2 Jan 2011
• 1

 

[mfarrow]

Cartridge fuses are a lot better than MCBs for protection, IMHO, although they are a little less convenient.

The RCD shouldn't have tripped, however at 15 years old the installation could probably do with a Periodic Inspection which would also test the correct functionality of the RCD.