Fred down the pub said that I can save money by not using a qualified sparks to test my R.C.Ds. He said that I can make my own R.C.D. tester. Is it safe?
It is about the same level of precision as pressing the test button on the RCD, an uncertain current of unknown duration. Some reassurance in weeding out totally stuck RCDs and mis-wired sockets perhaps, but I agree a test of limited value. I have made a ramp test/headroom checking rig with several resistors and switches in the same sort of way.
A real tester allows a known current, and also cuts off the test after a short time if it does not trip, so less risk to users if used on a faulty installation.
It is about the same level of precision as pressing the test button on the RCD, an uncertain current of unknown duration. Some reassurance in weeding out totally stuck RCDs and mis-wired sockets perhaps, but I agree a test of limited value. I have made a ramp test/headroom checking rig with several resistors and switches in the same sort of way.
A real tester allows a known current, and also cuts off the test after a short time if it does not trip, so less risk to users if used on a faulty installation.
