I put a split load consumer unit in my house and I can connect and switch all the circuits on, including the upstairs sockets without the RCD tripping. However if I connect the dowstairs sockets they make the RCD trip which indicates there is a fault in the downstairs socket circuit. What I dont understand though is as soon as I connect the dowstairs sockets, the upstairs sockets make the RCD trip too - even if the down stairs ones are switch off? Basically the upstairs sockets are fine as long as the downstairs ones are completely disconnected. Why is this?
With respect to Paul who obviously doesn't have enough work - check out the previous reply regarding the neutral connections.
Phil, June 2008
Attempting repairs can be dangerous.
In many instances work should only be undertaken by a qualified professional.
I am qualified and can be reached on 07747 571292. warwickshire and associated counties.
What you are doing is illegal and can only carried out by a real spark with a certificate. If you do it yourself you will either kill yourself, burn down your home ( insurance will not pay out) and you will not be able to sell it as it could fail inspection.
The fact the RCD is tripping points to an imbalance between live and neutral. I know what you have done but I am not going to tell you what you have done for FREE!!
paul, June 2008
IF U ARE USING A SPLIT LOAD CONSUMER UNIT MAKE SURE YOUR NEUTRALS FOR THE DOWNSTAIRS CIRCUIT ARE CONNECTED TO CORRECT NEUTRAL BAR IN CONSUMER UNIT IE:-SAME NEUTRAL BAR AS THE NEUTRALS FOR THE UPSTAIRS SOCKET CIRCUIT
BILL EASON, April 2008
Didn't think changing consumer units was advised unless you are part P certified.
Be careful whatever you do - if in doubt get an electrician in
Mr Handy Andy, April 2008
Methinks you have a neutral to earth short somewhere in your system...this (and other cross connections) can trip RCD's even if the current is off.
