RCBO keeps tripping - without explanation

[pads]

The wiring in the house is split into separate circuits each with their own RCBO for
3 for lighting (separate for ground floor; upper floor; and basement)
3 for power (again as above)
1 for cooker
1 for shower
2 for fridge/freezers

The problem exists only on the ground floor power circuit.
Whenever the vacuum (two core) is switched on in any socket, the RCBO trips. It's not the vacuum as it dos not happen on the upper floor. I have even tried an angle grinder- thinking maybe induction issues - but it does no trip.

Occasionally the circuit trips on its own, or if the computer is switched on.

I've checked all the sockets for damaged or trapped wiring, but nothing found.

Does anyone have any suggestions please.

Thanks
Peter

 

[jackhammerJIM]

do you own a multi function tester peter ?

 

[Plonker 3]

What test have you carried out, what readings did you get?

 

[plugsandsparks]

Looking at the house from above and working clockwise look behind the third socket, I think you will find that the neutral on leg 2 is catching the screw .cheers P&S

 

[Octopus]

One for the DIY area??

 

[jackhammerJIM]

plugsandsparks

crystal ball time

 

[Badged01]

Without more info sounds like it might need a re-wire?!?!

 

[Badged01]

Sorry, take that back, doesnt hep you with your problem! But more info on testing done is needed to be able to assist further ....

 

[dazza1981]

Do some tests mate....... sounds like a fault!!:bulb2:
Its guess work mate unless you start testing the circuit in question

 

[pads]

All outside circuits are on a separate CU entirely so they should not affect things.

I have unplugged or switched off (where via switched spur outlet - DP) all items on the same RCBO.

And the RCBO stays on for about 2 mins or little more then trips. Without doing anything. (Yes even the boiler is off)


Peter

 

[Octopus]

So are you a spark and do you have a tester?

 

[dazza1981]

But what tests mate?????????

 

[pads]

Retired electrician.

Yes have some test gear - insulation tester, multimeter. Plus a brain which cannot get its head round this one.

The only thing which has been done recently is some decorating. but checked all sockets for trapped wires under screws.

 

[dazza1981]

Mate.... have you disconnected the circuit and done any tests that would indicate as to what the fault is or where its likely to be????

 

[Plonker 3]

So what results did you get from the tests you carried out?

 

[pads]

Disconnecting the circuit and doing full tests is the job tomorrow.

Just thinking - the main feed to the house is through the cellars of the two adjoining terrace houses. If they disconnected the earth could that cause the problems?

I would have thought though that there would still have to be a fault in my wiring to cause the symptoms.

 

[Plonker 3]

Who knows, because until you get your test kit out we haven't got a bloody clue what's actually do we?

so do us a favour and reply when you have some results if you have been unable to find it.

 

[Octopus]

Disconnecting the circuit and doing full tests is the job tomorrow.

Just thinking - the main feed to the house is through the cellars of the two adjoining terrace houses. If they disconnected the earth could that cause the problems?

I would have thought though that there would still have to be a fault in my wiring to cause the symptoms.

What sort of spark were you?

 

[dazza1981]

No mate i think you need to do some testing.....

 

[dazza1981]

The wiring in the house is split into separate circuits each with their own RCBO for
3 for lighting (separate for ground floor; upper floor; and basement)
3 for power (again as above)
1 for cooker
1 for shower
2 for fridge/freezers

The problem exists only on the ground floor power circuit.
Whenever the vacuum (two core) is switched on in any socket, the RCBO trips. It's not the vacuum as it dos not happen on the upper floor. I have even tried an angle grinder- thinking maybe induction issues - but it does no trip.

Occasionally the circuit trips on its own, or if the computer is switched on.

I've checked all the sockets for damaged or trapped wiring, but nothing found.

Does anyone have any suggestions please.

Thanks
Peter

So its when the vacuum is switched on???
But its not the vacuum???
Or is it the computer??