How to Reset a Safety Switch (RCD): Step-by-Step Guide

A safety switch (Residual Current Device or RCD) is one of the most important safety features in your home’s electrical system. When it trips, it’s protecting you from potential electrical hazards. Here’s everything you need to know about resetting your safety switch safely and understanding why it tripped.

What Is a Safety Switch (RCD)?

A safety switch monitors the flow of electricity through a circuit and automatically cuts power within milliseconds if it detects a leakage to earth. This rapid response can be the difference between a minor shock and a fatal electrocution.

Before You Reset: Safety First

Important: Never attempt to reset a safety switch with wet hands or while standing in water. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your Safety Switch

Step 1: Locate Your Switchboard

Your switchboard is typically found in:

• Garage
• Laundry room
• External wall of your home
• Utility cupboard

Step 2: Identify the Tripped Safety Switch

Look for the switch that’s in the ‘off’ position or sitting between ‘on’ and ‘off’. Safety switches are usually labeled ‘Safety Switch’ or ‘RCD’ and often have a test button.

Step 3: Turn Off All Connected Appliances

Before resetting:

1. Unplug all appliances from power points
2. Turn off all light switches
3. Ensure all electrical equipment is disconnected

Step 4: Reset the Safety Switch

1. Push the switch firmly to the ‘off’ position first
2. Then push it back to the ‘on’ position
3. You should feel it click into place

Step 5: Test Your Power

If the switch stays on:

1. Check that power has been restored to your circuits
2. Gradually reconnect appliances one at a time
3. If it trips again when connecting a specific appliance, that device may be faulty

Why Do Safety Switches Trip?

Understanding why your safety switch tripped can help prevent future occurrences:

Common Causes:

1. Faulty Appliances

• Old or damaged appliances
• Water-damaged electrical equipment
• Appliances with worn insulation

2. Water and Moisture

• Rain entering outdoor power points
• Steam from bathrooms affecting nearby outlets
• Spills on electrical equipment

3. Overloaded Circuits

• Too many appliances on one circuit
• Using multiple high-wattage devices simultaneously

4. Damaged Wiring

• Rodent damage to cables
• Age-related wire deterioration
• DIY electrical work gone wrong

5. Lightning Strikes

• Direct or nearby lightning strikes
• Power surges from storms

When Your Safety Switch Won’t Reset

If your safety switch won’t stay on after resetting, do not keep trying to force it. This indicates an ongoing electrical fault that needs professional attention.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Isolate the Problem Circuit

   • Turn off all individual circuit breakers
   • Reset the safety switch
   • Turn circuit breakers on one by one
   • Note which one causes the trip

2. Check for Obvious Issues

   • Look for water near electrical outlets
   • Check for burning smells
   • Inspect visible wiring for damage

3. Call a Professional If you can’t identify the issue or the switch continues tripping

The Importance of Regular Safety Switch Testing

Australian standards recommend testing your safety switches every three months. Here’s how:

1. Press the ‘test’ button on the safety switch
2. The switch should trip immediately
3. Reset the switch as described above
4. If it doesn’t trip during testing, call an electrician immediately

Signs You Need Professional Help

Contact a licensed electrician if you experience:

• Safety switch tripping multiple times daily
• Burning smells from your switchboard
• Visible sparks or electrical arcing
• Tingling sensation when touching appliances
• Safety switch feels hot to touch
• Switch won’t reset despite following proper procedures

Upgrading Your Electrical Safety

Modern homes should have safety switches protecting all circuits, not just power points. If your home lacks comprehensive RCD protection, consider:

• Installing safety switches on all circuits
• Upgrading to a modern switchboard
• Adding surge protection
• Installing combination RCD/circuit breakers

Perth’s Safety Switch Regulations

In Western Australia, safety switches are mandatory for:

• All power point circuits in new homes
• New power points in existing homes
• All circuits in rental properties

Preventing Safety Switch Trips

Minimise nuisance tripping with these tips:

1. Regular Maintenance

   • Have appliances serviced regularly
   • Replace old or damaged power cords
   • Keep outdoor outlets covered and dry

2. Smart Power Usage

   • Avoid overloading circuits
   • Unplug appliances during storms
   • Use surge protectors for sensitive equipment

3. Professional Inspections

   • Annual electrical safety checks
   • Immediate inspection after flooding
   • Check wiring after renovations

Emergency Electrical Services

If you’re experiencing repeated safety switch trips or any electrical emergency, don’t wait. Our team at SwitchedOn Electrical provides:

• 24/7 emergency response
• Comprehensive fault finding
• Safety switch installation and testing
• Complete electrical safety inspections
• Switchboard upgrades and maintenance

Your Safety Is Our Priority

While resetting a safety switch is generally safe when done correctly, recurring trips indicate underlying electrical issues that require professional attention. Never compromise on electrical safety – what seems like a minor inconvenience could prevent a major incident.

If you’re unsure about any electrical issue or need assistance with your safety switches, our licensed electricians are here to help. Call us at 0437 913 360. We service all Perth suburbs within 15km of Cannington and offer emergency services when you need them most.