How does a safety switch work?
One mistake can put you at risk of electric shock. For example, if an appliance comes in contact with water and you turn it on, it might give you an electric shock.
When it comes to electrical safety - the more you have, the better it is. It is especially true if you have small children in your household. Kids are great at doing things they are not supposed to… so a high level of protection is a must for their safety and your peace of mind.
What Can Cause an Electric Shock?
Some common causes of electric shock are due to:
- Appliances coming in contact with water
- Damaged or faulty appliances
- Damaged or incorrect wiring
- Fallen powerlines
- Lightning
How Does A Safety Switch Work?
A safety switch monitors the flow of electricity through a circuit. When the safety switch detects any fluctuations in the current, it automatically switches off the power supply. For example, if you have a hair curler placed on the bathroom countertop. And let’s say, you are taking a shower and some water comes in contact with the curler. If you do not notice the water and turn it on, you can be at a risk of a shock and even electrocution. Fortunately, safety switches can detect the surge in current and shut down the power supply within milliseconds.
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Safety Switches v/s Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers protect electrical circuits from overload and are very different from safety switches. Too much current flowing through an appliance can cause the wires to overheat and start a fire. This is where circuit breakers come in… they cut off the circuit whenever there is a current surge, short circuit or overloading.
Safety switches are designed to protect people while circuit breakers protect the electrical circuits.
Test Safety Switches Every 3 Months
Just having a safety switch is not enough, it should be tested every 3 months to ensure it is working properly all the time.
To test a safety switch:
- Press the T or Test button on the safety switch
- The power supply to the circuit should be cut off and the safety switch would trip to the 'off' state
- Wait for 2-3 minutes and turn the safety switch on - this will prevent electrical appliances from any damage.
Note : If the power supply remains ON during the test - there could be a fault in the circuit or an electrical appliance plugged into the circuit. Test all appliances by unplugging all, resetting the safety switch and one by one replugging in the appliances. If you can't find the faulty appliance you should contact a licensed electrician for testing and repairs.
Safety Switches are mandatory in Queensland
Safety switches are mandatory in every home and should be installed on all power point, lighting and appliances circuits. However, many homes do not have safety switches or just have one safety switch for the entire house.
Electrical safety regulators recommend homeowners have more than one safety switch installed for each circuit like lights, aircon, hot water heater, and solar power systems, etc for added protection.
It is also important to:
- Check the appliances regularly to ensure they are in good working condition
- Repair or dispose of faulty appliances
- Do not attempt repairs yourself, contact a licensed electrician for inspection and an appliance repair specialist for repairs to electrical appliances
Note : DIY electrical work is dangerous and illegal in Australia. Safety switches can only be installed by licensed electricians.
Trusted Local Electricians
Looking for the installation or testing of safety switches, smoke alarms , or switchboard upgrade ? For all your residential or commercial electrican needs on the Gold Coast, get in touch with dependable and reliable electrical contractors at Pugin Power. Simply give us a call on 1300 029 795 or complete our online electrician enquiry form and we will be in touch with you shortly.