When it comes to keeping your home safe and your electrics running smoothly, one component you should never overlook is the RCBO. It’s an essential device for protecting your electrical circuits, appliances, and, most importantly, your family. But did you know that not all RCBOs are created equal? 🧐
Choosing the right RCBO for your installation can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to selecting between Type A and Type AC RCBOs. In this blog, we’ll break it down so that you can make the right choice for your South Yorkshire home.
What Is an RCBO?
Before diving into the differences, let’s quickly recap what an RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent) actually does.
An RCBO combines two essential safety features:
Residual current protection: This detects earth leakage faults (the kind of fault where electricity might be leaking from a circuit and potentially causing electric shocks).
Overcurrent protection: This protects against short circuits and overloads, which can cause fires.
In simpler terms, an RCBO safeguards your home by automatically disconnecting the electricity if it detects an issue, preventing harm to you and your home.
The Difference Between Type A & Type AC RCBOs 🔍
Now let’s get to the part that often confuses people: Type A vs Type AC RCBOs. These two types are designed to handle different electrical scenarios.
1. Type AC RCBOs ⚡
Type AC RCBOs are the most basic type. They are designed to detect and respond to AC (alternating current) faults — the most common type of electrical fault in many homes.
What it protects against: Type AC RCBOs detect standard AC residual currents, like those that could occur when you have a short circuit or a fault in traditional electrical appliances.
Where it's used: These are suitable for homes or circuits where only basic appliances are in use, like lights, older-style refrigerators, or standard plug-in gadgets.
2. Type A RCBOs ⚡
Type A RCBOs offer a bit more protection. In addition to detecting AC residual currents, they can also detect DC (direct current) components in residual currents.
What it protects against: These are designed to handle modern appliances that generate pulsating DC currents, such as LED lights, electric vehicle chargers, induction hobs, and computers.
Where it's used: Type A RCBOs are more suited for homes where modern electronics, smart devices, and appliances with non-linear loads are in use.
Why Does the Difference Matter?
If your home is filled with modern devices like smart appliances, LED lighting, electric vehicle chargers, or even solar panels, using a Type AC RCBO might not provide enough protection. In these cases, Type A RCBOs are a better option because they’re designed to detect the types of electrical faults that can occur with today’s technology.
In other words, Type A gives you added protection against modern electrical faults that Type AC might miss.
Here’s an easy comparison:
| Type of RCBO | Protection Against | Best For |
| Type AC | Standard AC faults | Older homes with fewer modern electronics |
| Type A | Both AC and DC faults | Modern homes with smart appliances, EV chargers, LED lighting |
Why You Should Always Opt for the Right RCBO for Your Installation 🏡
Choosing the right RCBO is about more than just safety—it’s also about future-proofing your home. With many of us increasingly using advanced technology, smart devices, and energy-efficient lighting, it’s important that your electrical system can handle the more complex loads these create.
Opting for Type A RCBOs ensures:
- Greater protection against faults from modern devices.
- Reduced risk of electrical fires or shocks.
- Compliance with the latest UK electrical regulations, which increasingly recommend Type A protection in domestic settings.
Do I Need to Upgrade to a Type A RCBO? 🔄
If you’re living in an older home in South Yorkshire with older appliances, Type AC RCBOs might still be sufficient, but it’s always best to consult with a qualified electrician to ensure your system is safe. If you’re planning on upgrading your kitchen appliances, adding electric vehicle charging points, or installing solar panels, Type A RCBOs will be the better choice.
At MP Electrical, we highly recommend considering Type A RCBOs for any new installations or electrical upgrades. And if you’re unsure which RCBO is right for your home, we’re happy to help assess your current setup and recommend the best solution for you.
How Can MP Electrical Help? 🛠️
As your trusted local electricians in South Yorkshire, MP Electrical is here to make sure your electrical system is up to modern standards, safe, and reliable. Whether you’re upgrading your consumer unit, adding new circuits, or just making sure your home is future-proof, we have the expertise to guide you in choosing the right RCBO for your installation.
Need Help Choosing the Right RCBO?
If you’re still unsure which type of RCBO is right for your home, give MP Electrical a call! We’re happy to help with any electrical work, from small jobs that other electricians avoid, to full-scale home upgrades.
👉 Message us or call us today on 01709 645115 for advice, or to book a professional installation. Remember, keeping your home safe with the right equipment is one of the smartest moves you can make.
