Outside socket

[bullethead123]

Hi All,
I have an outside socket (non RCD) which is showing signs of age (the cover keeps falling off due to sun damage). I was thinking to replace it with a (32mA trip) RCD type but I find the outside socket is on the kitchen ring which is protected by a 32mA RCD trip at the consumer unit.
Do I need to / should I use a dedicated RCD outside socket?

Thanks, Chris.

 

[chivers67]

If it already has an RCD there's no point having two. Have you got a means of testing the Trip times though? Is the mechanical part operating OK?

 

[EFLImpudence]

It's not necessary for the regulations, but...

... an active RCD socket - which also trips when the power is cut so not letting a plugged in tool unexpectedly spring back to life when the power is restored - might be advisable.

Also, some (maybe all) actually will not work if the earth wire is not connected.

 

[AndyPRK]

Personally I wouldn’t want an rcd outside if not required.

It’s just more to get wet and go wrong.

 

[bullethead123]

If it already has an RCD there's no point having two. Have you got a means of testing the Trip times though? Is the mechanical part operating OK?

No. But I put my voltage tester across live and earth and it trips.

It's not necessary for the regulations, but...

... an active RCD socket - which also trips when the power is cut so not letting a plugged in tool unexpectedly spring back to life when the power is restored - might be advisable.

Also, some (maybe all) actually will not work if the earth wire is not connected.

Maybe it's best to use a dedicated RCD socket then.
https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/BGWP22RCD.html
How about this one?


Chris

 

[EFLImpudence]

Maybe it's best to use a dedicated RCD socket then.

What do you mean?

https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/BGWP22RCD.html
How about this one?

Yes, that is an active one as I described.

 

[bullethead123]

OK. Thanks all. I'll replace the old one with an RCD type.

 

[winston1]

... an active RCD socket - which also trips when the power is cut so not letting a plugged in tool unexpectedly spring back to life when the power is restored - might be advisable.

As power tools can be plugged in anywhere in the house would you therefore advise every socket was an active RCD type?

 

[winston1]

OK. Thanks all. I'll replace the old one with an RCD type.

I wouldn't. You do realise if it trips most likely the CU RCD will trip as well meaning you have both to reset.

 

[EFLImpudence]

As power tools can be plugged in anywhere in the house would you therefore advise every socket was an active RCD type?

For mowing the living room carpet - Yes.

 

[EFLImpudence]

If a newer thing offers greater protection, do you advocate it should not be used until all the others have been replaced?

 

[winston1]

If a newer thing offers greater protection, do you advocate it should not be used until all the others have been replaced?

Not sure I understand what you are getting at.

 

[RF Lighting]

Not the first thing on this forum which you don’t understand.