Intermittent fault.

[Victor]

Hi Guys.

Hope that someone could give me a nudge in the right direction please.

I got a call out to a flat which had been effected by a leak from the flat above, the water ran down the wall and into the socket , thus blowing the 30amp fuse as no RCD is installed in the CU (rented flat and landlord too tight to upgrade).

I have inspected and changed the fuse holder for an MCB also replaced the double socket and done an insulation test (results all good) , however after anything between 10 mins and 4 hours the breaker trips out again.

Any advice gratefully appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Victor

 

[Octopus]

IR results?

 

[ruston]

Was it just the one socket affected , or is there a one that is hiding?
As above what were the IR readings?

 

[Pete999]

As above.

 

[Marvo]

Still sounds like a moisture problem. Unplug everything and IR test again at 1kV and do a full IR test for at least 2 mins each for l-n, l-e and n-e and use 'max hold' if your tester has the facility.

 

[7029 dave]

What were your IR readings.?

 

[Victor]

Hi Guys,

Many thanks for your replies.

I have again been back to the property and have carried out IR test on the circuit. What I discovered was abnormal reading on the cables in the wall/ceiling directly below where the leak was, so I have split the ring circuit into two 20amp radials and disconnect the link between two sockets in the kitchen, thus enabling power to the majority of the flat. I will now leave it for a while before going back to see if it has dried out, but I have a feeling that it could take some time as all the ceilings are block and beam and the walls are breeze block.

Regards
Victor

 

[Octopus]

Hi Guys,

Many thanks for your replies.

I have again been back to the property and have carried out IR test on the circuit. What I discovered was abnormal reading on the cables in the wall/ceiling directly below where the leak was, so I have split the ring circuit into two 20amp radials and disconnect the link between two sockets in the kitchen, thus enabling power to the majority of the flat. I will now leave it for a while before going back to see if it has dried out, but I have a feeling that it could take some time as all the ceilings are block and beam and the walls are breeze block.

Regards
Victor

You'll make more friends if you answer questions and provide answers like what were the IR readings!