RCD stands for “Residual Current Device.” It is an electrical safety device designed to protect against electric shocks and fire hazards caused by electrical faults in domestic, commercial, and industrial environments.
Due to the popularity of DC electronical devices, computerised chips and phones, It is now necessary to fit Type A RCDs.
Up until now most of the Consumer unit have been protected with Type AC RCDs. These are made to detect leakage of AC power from the circuit. Unfortunately when introduced to DC power they can be easily fooled. With the amount of car chargers and electronic devices that are plugged in, there is a certain amount of leaked DC electricity returning to the RCDs.
Type A RCDs work as required in spite of DC voltages present and keep the equipment and users, safe.
This does not mean that they should immediately be replaced but It would be beneficial to the longevity of appliances. However when fitting a new circuit or consumer unit you should fit Type A RCDs from now on. There are exceptions to this, when the circuit is supplying a stationary appliance that doesn’t use DC power.
Recently there was a shortage of Type A RCDs so make sure these are ordered in advance.
