period twin and earth?

[MdB]

Make sure it is on a RCB before re-routing as hidden cable not on a RCB has to be buried by 50mm or enclosed in metal trunking.

Is an RCB not a requirement these days, whatever the wiring arrangement?

Surely they're a good idea for all sort of reasons?

My understanding (which could be wrong) is that an RCD isn't required in some circuits if the cable is buried or shielded as above. It is required in some circuits - bathroom, kitchen and downstairs ring main comes to mind - could be wrong.

RCDs are a good idea, however, it is a bad idea to have a single RCD covering all circuits as it means that when something trips, all your lights go out. Some people therefore recommend that light circuits aren't on an RCD. Personally I think that using RCBOs is a better though more expensive option which is what I'm using. I also have the smoke alarm circuit and stair/hall light on its own RCBO. This way not all the upstairs lights can go out at once and I'll know quickly if the smoke alarm circuit has tripped.

(yes, I did call an RCD, an RCB above - I was thinking about RCBOs which are similar)

 

[Flyfisher]

I'm gradually improvng the electrics here and agree about RCBOs on most, if not all, circuits, especially the power ones.

I now have a 'tame' electrician who advises me on things such as cable routing and switch/socket/lighting placements (particularly important in kitchens and bathrooms) and I then pay him to come in and connect everything to the consumer unit and certify the whole installation. There is certainly a lot more than 'mere electrics' involved in a compliant installation these days.

I've more or less finished re-wiring a bathroom and utility room (not a good idea to have a washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, freezer and fridge all fed from a single bit of 2.5mm cable!) and am almost ready for the existing consumer unit to be replaced with modern unit that will support a mix of MCB, RCD and RCBOs.

I can then throw away all those fiddly little cards of fuse wire.

 

[LadyArowana]

I can then throw away all those fiddly little cards of fuse wire.

No, no, no, you mustn't anger the all powerful Gods of electricity in such a manner. These ritual objects must be safely preserved as you mutter the mantra "I had better keep these just in case" then all will be well for many years to come.