If your RCD keeps tripping, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common electrical problems homeowners experience, particularly in Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, and surrounding Somerset areas.
While it can be frustrating, an RCD tripping is often a sign that your electrical system is protecting you. As a local, qualified electrician in Burnham-on-Sea, this is something I’m called out to regularly. In this guide, I’ll explain what an RCD does, why it trips, and when you should contact a local electrician.
What Is an RCD and Why Is It Important?
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a vital electrical safety device fitted in your consumer unit (fuse box).
Its job is to:
- Detect electrical faults
- Protect against electric shock
- Reduce the risk of electrical fires
If it senses electricity flowing where it shouldn’t — such as through damaged wiring or a faulty appliance — it cuts the power almost instantly.
If your RCD is tripping, it’s usually because it has detected a real electrical issue, not because it’s faulty.
Common Reasons an RCD Keeps Tripping in Burnham-on-Sea Homes
Faulty Electrical Appliances
This is the most common cause I see as a Burnham-on-Sea electrician, appliances like:
- Washing machines
- Kettles
- Dishwashers
- Tumble dryers
- Older fridges or freezers
can develop internal electrical faults over time. When this happens, electricity leaks to earth and causes the RCD to trip.
What you can safely check:
Unplug all appliances, reset the RCD, then plug them back in one at a time. If the RCD trips when a specific appliance is connected, that appliance is likely faulty.
Moisture and Damp (Very Common Locally)
Living in a coastal area like Burnham-on-Sea, moisture-related electrical issues are extremely common.
Damp air and condensation can affect:
- Outdoor sockets
- Garden lighting
- Garage electrics
- Bathrooms and kitchens
Moisture inside fittings or cables can cause small current leaks that trip the RCD — especially after heavy rain or cold weather.
Damaged or Ageing Wiring
Many properties in Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge still have older wiring systems that weren’t designed for modern electrical demand.
Wiring can become damaged by:
- Age and wear
- Rodents
- DIY work
- Nails or screws through cables
If your RCD trips even when nothing is plugged in, damaged fixed wiring could be the cause and should be checked by a qualified electrician.
Overloaded Circuits
Modern households use far more electrical appliances than homes did years ago.
Running multiple high-load items — such as heaters, air fryers, or garage equipment — on one circuit can cause repeated RCD tripping.
This is something I often see during electrical inspections in Somerset homes.
Old or Faulty Consumer Units
If your fuse box is 15–20 years old, the RCD itself may be:
- Overly sensitive
- Worn out
- No longer compliant with current regulations
Upgrading an outdated consumer unit can significantly improve safety and reliability.
Is It Dangerous If My RCD Keeps Tripping?
The tripping itself is a safety feature — but the underlying fault may be dangerous.
Repeated RCD tripping can indicate:
- Electrical leakage
- Failing insulation
- Increased fire risk
Never ignore ongoing electrical issues or attempt to bypass the RCD.
When to Call a Local Electrician in Burnham-on-Sea
You should contact a qualified electrician if:
- The RCD trips immediately when reset
- It trips with all appliances unplugged
- You notice burning smells or buzzing
- The problem keeps returning
- Your home has older wiring or an outdated fuse box
A local electrician in Burnham-on-Sea can safely identify the fault using proper test equipment.
How an Electrician Diagnoses RCD Tripping
When attending electrical faults in Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge, I typically:
- Test individual circuits
- Carry out insulation resistance testing
- Inspect fixed wiring and accessories
- Check the consumer unit and RCD operation
This ensures the fault is identified accurately and fixed properly.
Can an EICR Identify the Problem?
Yes. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is one of the best ways to uncover hidden electrical faults.
An EICR is recommended if:
- Your RCD trips repeatedly
- Your property is over 10 years old
- You’re a landlord
- You’ve recently moved home
Many homeowners in Burnham-on-Sea and Somerset use an EICR for peace of mind and preventative safety.
Final Thoughts
If your RCD keeps tripping, it’s not something to ignore. While some causes are simple, others can point to serious electrical faults.
Getting advice from a trusted local electrician in Burnham-on-Sea can save time, stress, and reduce safety risks in your home.
Need a Local Electrician to Check an RCD Fault?
If you’re experiencing repeated RCD tripping or would like professional advice, D Durnan Electrical Ltd is here to help.
Electrician in Burnham-on-Sea & Highbridge
NAPIT registered & fully insured
Over 170 five-star Google reviews
Get in touch today for friendly, reliable local service.
