RCBO stands for Residual Current Breaker with Over-Current. Designed to ensure the safe operation of electrical circuits. If the current is unbalanced the RCBO will as the name suggests, disconnect or break the circuit. Commonly for protection against overload and short circuit and protection against earth leakage currents. It is best practice for electricians to have an RCBO attached to each separate circuit, so a fault in one circuit will not impact the performance of others.
RCD stands for Residual Current Device. They offer a level of protection that ordinary circuit-breakers do not. It is a sensitive safety device that is designed to protect people getting electrocuted, switching off automatically if there is a fault. Constantly monitoring the flow of current and if it detects an unusual path (Eg. Via a person), the RCD will switch the circuit off immediately. This helps avoid electric shocks, or at the very least, reduce the impact of a shock. Shop our range of RCDs and RCBOs, with the boards also available here. Order online for next day delivery.
Residual Current Breaker with Over-Current (RCBOs) protects against two types of faults and ensures the safe operation of electrical circuits. RCBOs are designed to do both the requirements of an RCB and MCB – providing protection for over-current and earth leakage.
How does RCBOs work?
RCBO are designed to disconnect/break the circuit if the circuit is unbalanced. It is used to protect against overloads, short circuits and earth leakage currents.
When would I use RCBOs?
RCBOs are commonly used in domestic industries to reduce the number of injuries caused by electric shock and offer protection for overcurrent. It is used to protect you and your electrical circuit.
Can I fit RCBOs myself?
It is advised to hire an experienced and knowledgeable electrician to install the RCBOs to ensure safe installations.
What is the difference between RCBOs and RCDs?
RCDs are designed to protect you or your family from getting electrocuted. It detects the leakage of earth or any conductor. However is not an over-current device. Whereas, RCBOs are designed to offer both over-current protection and earth leakage protection.
What is the difference between MCBs and RCBOs?
MCBs are designed to provide protection of the electrical circuit from damage from over-currents. However is not an earth leakage protection device. Whereas, RCBOs are designed to offer both over-current protection and earth leakage protection.