Replace MCB with RCBO's

Licklieder

Licklieder

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Hi Guys.

I’ve got a 12 way Volex 17th Edition split consumer unit that currently has 4 MCB no RCD (for electrical heating) and 5 MCB with RCD protection for lights, immersion, Oven / Hob, Final Ring, & radial socket.

upload_2021-5-4_15-34-48.jpeg


There’s a guy on ebay selling New Old stock Volex RCBOS’ of the right type (RCBO function AC & pulsing DC, MCB function – Type B: https://bit.ly/2PRx1m6 ) & ratings, so I was considering replacing the current set of MCB’ with RCBO’s.

I have a Fluke 1653B multifunction tester so would perform continuity, IR and trip time / current testing before and after the replacement, and will source a torque screwdriver to ensure everything is done up correctly.

Is there anything else I should be considering ? Aside from updating the labeling when done.

M.
 
I think the type AC doesn't have the dc pulsing function.

Blup
 
That brand are type A rcd for DC.

Often ppl don’t like Rcd for heating, as you can get false trips.
 
I think they are.

Can't be bothered to go and look at one, though.

They have a metal sheathing. If the element were to be damaged or burn through, it could become live.
 
JohnD said:
I think they are.
Click to expand...
That's good enough.

Can't be bothered to go and look at one, though.
Click to expand...
Maybe you should.
https://www.google.com/search?q=storage+heater+elements'&sxsrf=ALeKk00iIA9QmD8vHR0rAd04QtWpm-sFAQ:1620144458285&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwinxq63tLDwAhXOgVwKHRD_CYwQ_AUoAXoECAEQAw&biw=1559&bih=761

They have a metal sheathing. If the element were to be damaged or burn through, it could become live.
Click to expand...
They are inside the bricks.
MCB?
 
AndyPRK said:
That brand are type A rcd for DC.

Often ppl don’t like Rcd for heating, as you can get false trips.
Click to expand...

it's hard to make out from the photos on ebay, but when i zoom in, they do look like type A to me:

upload_2021-5-4_17-37-21.png
 
I'll bear in mind the possibility for nuisance tripping on heating circuits and keep hold of the exsting MCB's just in case. At the moment, i have cheapo convection heaters fitted but intend to replace them with some nicer electric - wet style heaters in due course. Guess that explains why the spark who fitted my consumer unit way back when split those circuits off from the RCD.

That said, I have come across some manufacturers of radiator elements who specify the use RCBO's.
 
AndyPRK said:
How do you turn the heaters on and off ?

is there a central timer ?
Click to expand...

As per the original late 60's / early 70's install Each room has it's own thermostat. There used to be a central timer / relay box but i too that out when i replaced the old mechanical thermostats with Aube Th132's digital onse which work well for temp control / disabling the heaters with the 'holiday' function. Each heater is connected to the circuit via it's own FCU.

A project for another day will be to add appropriate isolation switches before the thermostats as the installation pre-dates that requirement.
 
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