crabtree 80 amp rccb

[adlew]

I am fitting a new shower circuit into the Crabtree cu. It's has an 80 amp rccb fitted. Am I Irequired to install an rcd onto the circuit?

[shooty]

No. the rccb is sufficient as long as it covers that circuit among others. if it is a split load board and the rccb does not cover that circuit, a rcbo will be required.

[The Builder]

Are you sure you haven't got a 80A RCD in the CU ........... protecting ALL of the circuits, or maybe half of them?

[shooty]

Although I would consider a 30mA RCBO for peace of mind.

[shooty]

Appologies, I have just checked my Regs book.
All electrical circuits within bathrooms must be protected by Residual Current Devices (RCD) not exceeding 30mA.

[adlew]

Hi all, its an older type crabtree unit with an 80 amp rccb covering the whole installation. Due to its age I was wondering if it would be advisable to install the rcd next to ther unit for additional protection or would this be pointless?

[shooty]

If its a 80 A / 30 mA rccb. you will be fine. Check the writing on the front or side of the rccb.. Apart from 80A it should also say what mA it is ie, 30/50/80/100 mA

[shooty]

http://www.ebay.co.uk...-BS4293-/270987844147

copy and paste the link above in your browser. If this is your rccb. It will be fine.

[shooty]

or just click on it : )

[The Builder]

Agree with Shooty.
An rccb is just a type of RCD. If it protects the whole system, then modern rules are satisfied. There's no advantage in fitting another, unless you want to split the board for some reason.
Just fit a regular MCB in the shower circuit

[BRIGHT SPARK]

...and dont forget to notify building control

[adlew]

Only thought that needed to be done if I needed the main capacity to be increased from 60 amp to 80/100 amp

[shooty]

Part P requires that any electrical work carried out in kitchens or bathrooms must be registered with building control. Red tape.....

[adlew]

and if it doesnt????

[shooty]

Then they will put you infront of a firing squad. ''IF'' they find out that you have done it, that is.

[adlew]

It's a council property so is there anyone else I need to notify?

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Barmaids e-mail ad may be useful.

[LCDMAN]

It's worth bearing in mind that rccb (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) is just an "old" name for what we currently call an RCD (Residual Current Device). They function by monitoring the difference in current flowing between the Phase ("Live") and Neutral conductors. This should be the same, unless a fault (usually to earth) causes a big enough imbalance, when it trips to prevent harm/damage.