Safety Switch & RCD Installation Perth

RCD and Safety Switch Services for Perth Properties

An RCD, commonly called a safety switch, is designed to disconnect power when it detects current flowing through an unintended path. It helps reduce the risk of electric shock, but it does not replace circuit breakers, safe wiring or regular electrical maintenance.

Switched On Electrical installs, replaces and tests RCDs for homes, rental properties and commercial premises. We can also investigate a safety switch that keeps tripping or will not reset.

Request an RCD assessment or call 0437 913 360 to discuss the property, the switchboard and the problem you are seeing.

When to Call an Electrician About an RCD

Arrange an inspection if:

• The switchboard has no clearly labelled RCDs or safety switches
• The test button does not trip the device
• An RCD trips repeatedly or will not reset
• Only some lighting or power circuits appear to be protected
• You are preparing a home for sale, rent or short-stay accommodation
• You are adding circuits, renovating or planning a switchboard upgrade
• There are signs of heat, damage or deterioration at the switchboard

Repeated tripping can be caused by an appliance fault, moisture, damaged wiring or cumulative earth leakage. Resetting the switch repeatedly does not identify the cause. Our electrical fault finding service is the right next step when the source is unclear.

What Our RCD Service Includes

The scope depends on the existing installation. A visit may include:

1. Inspecting the switchboard and identifying the circuits currently protected
2. Testing the RCDs and relevant circuits
3. Checking for obvious damage, labelling issues or unsuitable protection
4. Explaining whether testing, replacement, additional RCDs or broader switchboard work is appropriate
5. Completing the agreed installation work and testing it before handover
6. Providing applicable electrical safety documentation for the installing work

If the board is crowded, damaged or still uses older protection, adding one device may not be the safest or most practical answer. We will explain when a broader switchboard replacement should be considered instead.

WA RCD Requirements for Sale and Rental Properties

For WA residential premises offered for sale, rent, short-term rental accommodation or hire, the regulations require at least two RCDs protecting the final subcircuits supplying socket outlets and lighting. The exact number and arrangement can depend on the circuits and the installation.

Requirements for new work and newer installations can be broader. A licensed electrical contractor should assess the actual switchboard rather than relying on the age of the property or the number of switches alone.

For a practical overview of related property obligations, see our guide to electrical safety certificates when selling a house in WA and our comparison of RCDs and circuit breakers.

RCD Testing and Tripping

The WA electrical safety regulator recommends following the manufacturer’s test instructions or testing every three months, whichever is more frequent. If you feel confident and the meter box is in good condition, press the button marked T or Test. The RCD should move to the off position and disconnect the protected circuit.

Do not remove the switchboard cover or touch internal components. If the device does not trip, will not reset, or the enclosure appears damaged, leave it alone and call a licensed electrician.

If an RCD has tripped and it is safe to check appliances, our guide explains how to reset a safety switch. If it trips again, stop resetting it and arrange fault finding.

Why Choose Switched On Electrical

• WA electrical contractor licence EC 15465
• Established in 2008 and based in East Cannington
• Assessment of the existing board before recommending work
• Installation, circuit testing and clear labelling within the agreed scope
• Residential and commercial electrical experience
• Applicable electrical safety documentation for installing work

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an RCD the same as a safety switch?

In everyday use, yes. RCD stands for residual current device, while safety switch is the common name. It monitors the balance of current in a circuit and disconnects supply when it detects leakage. A circuit breaker serves a different purpose: it protects wiring against overloads and short circuits.

How often should I test my RCDs?

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or test every three months, whichever is more frequent. Use only the T or Test button that is intended for the user. If the switch does not trip or reset, contact a licensed electrical contractor.

Why does my safety switch keep tripping?

Possible causes include a faulty appliance, moisture, damaged wiring or leakage across several connected devices. Because the cause cannot be confirmed from the switch alone, repeated tripping should be investigated rather than continually reset.

How many RCDs does a WA rental or sale property need?

WA rules for residential premises offered for sale, rent, short-term rental accommodation or hire require at least two RCDs protecting socket-outlet and lighting final subcircuits. More may be needed depending on the installation, circuit arrangement and work completed at the property.

Can I install or replace an RCD myself?

No. RCD installation and replacement involves electrical installation work at the switchboard and must be completed by appropriately licensed people. A householder should only operate the normal controls and test button; do not remove covers or access internal wiring.

Local RCD Service Areas

We work from East Cannington and serve nearby Perth suburbs, including:

• Cannington
• Queens Park
• Bentley
• Victoria Park
• East Victoria Park
• Carlisle
• Belmont
• Kewdale

Request an RCD Assessment

Tell us whether the job involves a home, rental or commercial property, what happens when the RCD is tested, and whether it is tripping. A clear photo of the switchboard with the cover closed can also help us prepare for the visit.

Send the job details or call 0437 913 360.