RCD Trip from switched fused spur...

[Tryster]

We have recently had a new split load consumer unit fitted, with a 30mA RCD. The kitchen sockets are on the RCD protected side of the board and we've been experiencing intermittant trips (maybe 2 - 3 times a week) when switching a fused switched spur (which feeds a socket under the worktop for the washing machine).

Curiously it only seems to happen when when using this switch and not if you leave the spur switched on and just switch the washing machine on and off... I've heard of appliances having a small amount of earth leakage, but it seemed a little odd that we don't get the trip when not using the switch??

This may be a stupid question, but is it possible for a faulty switch to be causing this trip (as seems the case)? If so is it best to replace the switch with a single or double pole switch? Double pole seems 'safer' and more robust, but I was wondering whether my choice could have an impact on the likelyhood of trips?

Also I was inteding to replace the switch with an unfused version (as there is already protection downstream) I assume this is acceptable?

Thanks in advance

Tryster

 

[Job_n_knock]

If the RCD doesnt trip when the spur is left on and also when you use the washing machine, then it can only be the spur...It might be the neon, or a bit of tracking, either way, a new double pole spur wont do any harm will it? Thinking about it...it could be the neon so get one without ( My neons work though so....I dunno )

 

[RF Lighting]

is it best to replace the switch with a single or double pole switch? Double pole seems 'safer' and more robust, but I was wondering whether my choice could have an impact on the likelyhood of trips?

It needs to be double pole.

Also I was inteding to replace the switch with an unfused version (as there is already protection downstream) I assume this is acceptable?

What is the protection 'downstream'?
The switch is probably an FCU for a reason

 

[JohnD]

You say that there is a socket and plug for the washing machine, so a 20A DP switch will be ideal. The best number of fuses per appliance is one. Not less, not more.

the reason for using an FCU was probably... handy

 

[Tryster]

Thanks for the replies.

JohnD is correct in that it was the fused plug for the washing machine I was referring to as being the downstream protection.

I will replace the FCU and see how it goes from there...

Thanks again for the help.