Safety switch tripping? Common causes & how to reset

In both new and older homes across the Bellarine Peninsula, Greater Geelong, and surrounding areas, safety switches are crucial for protecting your family and home from electrical hazards. These devices are mandatory on every electrical circuit, ensuring that even small electrical imbalances are detected and addressed. However, if your safety switch trips, it can be frustrating to figure out why.

While safety switches (RCDs and RCBOs) are more reliable than traditional circuit breakers, they are more sensitive and may trip unexpectedly. Luckily, there are a few common causes of tripping that you can troubleshoot before calling an electrician.

A 2 pole ‘RCD’ in the off position

What Is a Safety Switch?

A safety switch is a device that detects electrical imbalances and shuts off power to prevent potential hazards like electric shocks or fires. Here’s how you can identify one:

✅ ‘Test’ Button – Not found on standard circuit breakers or fuses.

✅ ‘RCD’ or ‘RCBO’ – This label indicates that it’s a Residual Current Device or Residual Current Circuit Breaker.

✅ Green or Yellow Sticker – Signifies the circuit is protected.

A parrot nest, amongst some severely damaged cabling.

Why Does My Safety Switch Keep Tripping?

1. Faulty Appliances & Electrical Equipment

A faulty appliance is one of the most common causes of a tripped safety switch. To troubleshoot:

1️⃣ Unplug all appliances connected to the tripped circuit (including hidden devices like pumps, dishwashers, and fridges).

2️⃣ Reset the switch. If it stays on, start plugging in appliances one by one until the switch trips again.

3️⃣ The last appliance plugged in is likely the culprit. Have it inspected or replaced.

Common faulty appliances include:

🔹 Extension cords left exposed to rain

🔹 Old water pumps

🔹 Toasters with exposed wiring

2. Weather Conditions (Rain & Moisture Exposure)

Heavy rain or high humidity can cause moisture buildup in electrical systems, leading to short circuits and safety switch tripping.

🌧️ Solution: If your switch trips after rain, and unplugging appliances doesn’t solve the issue, contact a licensed electrician immediately to check for weather-related electrical damage.

3. Pests Causing Electrical Damage

Pests, such as ants, rodents, and birds, are often responsible for damaging electrical wiring and causing switches to trip.

🐜 Ants can invade power points and switchboards.

🐦 Birds and rodents may chew through wiring in ceilings or walls.

🛠️ Solution: If pests are suspected, contact an electrician to inspect your wiring and a pest control expert to address the infestation.

4. Safety Switch Malfunction

While rare, safety switches can fail over time, which can result in them tripping without a clear cause. Regular testing is essential to ensure they are working properly.

✅ Monthly Check (DIY): Press the ‘test’ button on the safety switch. If it doesn’t trip, it may need to be replaced or professionally tested.

When to Call a Licensed Electrician

If your safety switch keeps tripping, or you’re unable to reset it, it’s best to call a qualified electrician. Frequent tripping can be a sign of underlying electrical issues, such as faulty wiring, damaged circuits, or outdated electrical systems.

Bright Electrics is here to help with all your electrical needs across the Bellarine Peninsula and Greater Geelong. From safety switch installations and maintenance to full electrical inspections, we ensure your home or business stays safe and compliant with the latest electrical standards.

Contact us today for professional electrical services, safety switch testing, and troubleshooting!