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Has my SPD tripped?

Chris Pearson

I may be being a bit thick, but ...

... how do I know if my SPD is still functioning?

The same might be said of an RCD, but of course we all check them six monthly so we could check the little indicator in the SPD at the same time.

However, if the RCD has tripped, we know about it 'cos the lights go off. If the SPD has exceeded its useful life, we know nothing. The one which I shall be installing at home has a switch for an indicator or buzzer, but that wouldn't be much use for a CU at the back of the hall cupboard/under the stairs/in the garage.

I am left thinking that if SPDs should be fitted, there should also be an effective alarm system. Do you agree?

  • in reply to AJJewsbury

    That is my point.

    We see plenty of "pre-populated" boards now with SPDs adjacent to the main switch, but I doubt that many customers know what they are for and will never inspect the indicators. So once their protective capacity has been used up, they may as well not be there.

    There is a nice little video here for those who cannot work it out for themselves.

  • Sorry, I clearly hadn't read your post properly!

    I suppose compared to the potential life-saving RCD a failed SPD generally only poses a risk to property. So if we can live with a broken RCD for up to (say) six months (if usual guidance is followed) I reckon in most situation a broken SPD could pose tolerable risks for a similar time.  If you want something more, then as you say, there are ones with switching contacts available so it's a simple matter to rig one up to a remote visual or audible alarm - which  of course could be positioned in a much more noticeable location than the CU. Some means of temporarily silencing the alarm might be a good idea though - otherwise it could end up like so many smoke alarms and be tampered with to remove the nuisance by those that don't have the ability to properly fix the underlying problem.

       - Andy.

  • Most these days have physical indicator window - showing red or green. You can pay extra for ones with auxiliary contacts too, if you wish.

      - Andy.

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