Latching (Passive) and Non-Latching (Active) RCD Sockets

Posted byRobin Laverick on July 13, 2021 in Wiring Accessories & Tips & Resources
Passive and active RCD sockets

RCD Sockets - The Difference Between Latching and Non-Latching

Latching RCD (Sometimes called Passive RCD)

What is a passive RCD?

When the power is lost due to an earth fault, the passive or latching RCD trips out and isolates the circuit it is protecting. Latching RCDs do trip during power cuts but they automatically reset once the power returns, so they are great for fridges and freezers and also for protecting remote/unmanned areas. This would also make them ideal for protecting some heating equipment set to "Frost Protection", fish tanks, and battery charging.

Use Latching (Passive) RCD Sockets For:

  • Refrigeration
  • Frost watchers
  • Aquariums
  • Chargers
  • Remote installations
  • Most commercial applications
Passive RCD sockets

Non-Latching RCD Sockets (Sometimes called Active)

What is an Active RCD?

Extra safety - When the power is lost due to an earth fault or power cut, the active or non-latching RCD isolates the circuit that it is protecting and remains off until it is manually reset. A must for protecting circuits supplying rotating machinery or some heating apparatus for example.

Use Non-Latching RCD Sockets For:

  • Garden tools
  • Power tool
  • Domestic applications
  • Nurseries
  • Schools
  • Hospitals
  • Old peoples homes
Latching Decorative RCD Socket

Safety Doesn't Have to be Ugly - Fancy RCD Sockets

RCD sockets are also available in decorative plate options to compliment your interior design. You can even have flat plate rather than standard plate RCD sockets if you're trying to match the rest of your home wiring accessories. The usual, comprehensive range of finishes will still be available to you.

Waterpoof-rcd-sockets

Extra Protection Outside - Waterproof RCD Sockets

One of the most popular areas that you're most likely to want RCD protection (non-latching), would naturally be outside. Outdoor RCD sockets up to a protection rating of IP66 are readily available. It's easy to ensure that no one will be using the mower, strimmer, leaf blower, hedge trimmer, paddling pool pump etc unprotected from the potential earth faults.

Timeguard RCD Products

MK RCD Products