Residual current devices, or RCDs, are very useful and important safety devices that are often found in your consumer unit (fuse box). An RCD protects against both faults and gives extra protection. Every six months, they should be tested by pressing the "Test" button on the front of the device. To show that it has tripped, the RCD should go straight to the OFF or Open position. After testing, just push the lever back up into the ON (normal operating) position. This simple test only looks at how the device works mechanically. Only a qualified and skilled electrician with the right test equipment can do a more thorough test of the RCD to make sure that the times it trips are within the right standards.

"Arc Fault Detection Device" is what "AFDD" stands for. AFDDs aren't very old in the UK, but with the update of BS7671 amendment 2 of the wiring regulations, they will be used more often on electrical installations. A device that finds arc faults makes it less likely that faulty wires and connections will start a fire. When a potentially dangerous arc fault is found, the device will break the circuit.

There are several types of electrical emergencies, depending on the nature of the problem, how the property is used, and what is most important to the people living there.

Having no power to your plugs or lights is a common reason to call an electrician right away. This is usually caused by a tripped circuit breaker or RCD. Having no lights in your house is dangerous in and of itself, especially if there are stairs inside. If you don't have power to your plugs, it can really mess up your life, especially if you work from home. Most central heating systems get their power from socket circuits, so they, as well as internet connections, home security systems, etc., would be affected.

There could be a threat right now. For example, broken equipment with live cables hanging out. From the front of a socket or the consumer unit, you might be able to smell something fishy or see smoke. You might get electric shocks from metal appliances and accessories. Businesses could lose money if they can't do what they usually do because the power went out.

We would always tell you to call an electrician right away if something is dangerous or could be dangerous. In the end, it's up to the people who live there or own the property to decide if they need an electrician right away to fix an electrical problem.

Our technicians carry a remote card reader so you can pay with your debit or credit card. We also take cash and bank transfers.