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Why does my safety switch (RCD) keep tripping for no reason?

Here are the usual causes, most likely first, and how an electrician would track it down.

Likely causes

1. One faulty appliance with earth leakage
2. Too many circuits/appliances on one safety switch (RCD) (combined leakage)
3. Moisture in an outdoor power point (GPO) or light
4. Borrowed neutral between circuits
5. Faulty safety switch (RCD)

How you'd find it

• Unplug everything and reset; plug back in one at a time
• Isolate, then IR test each circuit (≥ 1 MΩ at 500 V)
• N–E test per circuit; RCD tester for trip time and current

Usual fix

Repair/replace the faulty appliance or wiring; separate borrowed neutrals; spread circuits over more safety switch (RCD)s/RCBOs.

Study aid in plain English, not the text of the standard. Always check the current AS/NZS 3000:2018 + WA rules and your local rules. Electrical work must be done by a licensed or registered electrician.

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More WA / Australia guides

• Why do my kitchen GPOs trip when I turn the cooktop/oven on?
• Why do I get a tingle from a tap or the shower?
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