EICR Report - Type AC RCDs

[random_username]

Hi

Our insurer requires us to do an EICR every 10 years due to the nature of the property, which has just been completed.

The report has listed a C2 result for the consumer units, which has resulted in a fail / unsatisfactory result:

"Type AC RCDs used throughout the installation where pulsating DC currents or DC leakage components may exist, which may
prevent proper operation of the protective devices. See Regulations 531.3.3; 411.3.2.1; 411.3.3. Recommend replacement of
consumer units."

I know that although regulations are updated, these apply for new installs and don't necessarily apply to testing of older installations. Doing some searching around, it seems that Type AC RCDs are a bit of a grey area, but normally would warrant a C3 as an advisory, not a C2.

Any electricians able to comment - obviously I don't want to have to get the consumer units changed if it's not warranted...

Thanks!

Edited by random_username on Monday 17th August 12:38

[Ganglandboss]

Generally anything that complied at the time of installation would be considered a C3, but a notable exception would be lack of RCDs to sockets that may supply outdoor portable equipment, or are located in a room containing a bath or a shower. Electrical Safety First's Best practice Guide 4 recommends C2 in this instance.

https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/media/nhj...

The above guide says a type AC RCD where a type A is required should be coded C3.

Ultimately it is down to the inspector to use his judgement, but there is no way that is any worse than a C3 in my opinion (or Electrical Safety First's opinion).

[random_username]

Thanks - that's really helpful.

All of the circuits are RCD protected, no sockets in bathrooms etc... The company that did the test has yet to get back to me with a "remedial" quote, when they do I shall ask them what's going on...

[Ganglandboss]

I would politely refer them to the guide I posted a link to (page 4). Ultimately it is still down to their judgement though.

If they won't back down, you could get another report from another electrician.

Are there any other defects? Also can you post a picture of the consumer unit(s)?

[random_username]

Ganglandboss said:

I would politely refer them to the guide I posted a link to (page 4). Ultimately it is still down to their judgement though.

If they won't back down, you could get another report from another electrician.

Are there any other defects? Also can you post a picture of the consumer unit(s)?

I'll see what they say when they get back to me about the remediation costs. For the consumer units, they are 2x Crabtree StarBreaker units from approx 20 years ago I would guess. Plastic enclosures not metal. Both with 380/030 RCCBs. Does this mean that if a 'new' equivalent RCCB could be fitted, then you could just swap those out, rather than the entire box, eg. https://www.screwfix.com/p/crabtree-starbreaker-80...

There was one other item listed as needing remediation - a controller for some outside lights which was not properly enclosed, which has since put in a junction box with a lid.

[Ganglandboss]

random_username said:

I'll see what they say when they get back to me about the remediation costs. For the consumer units, they are 2x Crabtree StarBreaker units from approx 20 years ago I would guess. Plastic enclosures not metal. Both with 380/030 RCCBs. Does this mean that if a 'new' equivalent RCCB could be fitted, then you could just swap those out, rather than the entire box, eg. https://www.screwfix.com/p/crabtree-starbreaker-80...

There was one other item listed as needing remediation - a controller for some outside lights which was not properly enclosed, which has since put in a junction box with a lid.

The plastic enclosure would be a C3 if it is under a wooden staircase or on the sole means of escape from the property, according to the guide I linked to. There is no reason why you cannot replace devices (or even add) in an existing consumer unit.

Did they flag the plastic consumer unit?

If you can get a suitable device, then yes, it can be changed, and you have rectified the defect.

I have been out of the trade a few years (I work as a consulting engineer to a loss adjusting firm these days), so I am not up to speed with what most manufacturers are offering, but I would assume that the fact Crabtree are still using the Starbreaker name, the current devices will fit without issues.

[random_username]

Plastic consumer units were flagged as a C3:

Consumer units DB1 and DB2 are of combustible construction and do not meet current requirements for non-combustible
enclosures in domestic premises. No signs of thermal damage, arcing or overheating observed. See Regulation 421.1.201.
Recommend replacement of consumer units.

Both are located in a pantry, not blocking any means of escape etc.

[Dr Mike Oxgreen]

When we sold our house recently, the EICR commissioned by our buyers gave us a C2 for the RCBOs being a mixture of two manufacturers. That’s surely not right, is it? All the RCBOs passed, other than that point.

[Ganglandboss]

Dr Mike Oxgreen said:

When we sold our house recently, the EICR commissioned by our buyers gave us a C2 for the RCBOs being a mixture of two manufacturers. That s surely not right, is it? All the RCBOs passed, other than that point.

The guide referenced above advises C3 if they fit properly, the case has not been modified, devices operate in the same direction, and there is no sign of overheating or strain on the busbar. If any of those applies, its C2.