When and Where Should RCDs Be Installed in Your Property?

If a smoke alarm is the guardian of your air, a Residual-Current Device (RCD) is the guardian of your wiring. It is a small switch that cuts the electricity the instant it senses a dangerous fault – faster than you can blink and often the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Yet many Perth homeowners still ask, “Do I really need one in every room?” or “Isn’t two enough if I’m renting my place out?”

The short answer: any circuit that a person could touch or that could become wet should be on an RCD – and modern rules make that virtually every circuit in the home. Below is a handy guide to where and why, plus some WA-specific rules and tips from PWA Electrical Services, Perth’s specialists in RCD installations and switchboard upgrades. Let’s dive in.

Why RCDs Matter?

Speed saves lives: An RCD trips in about 300 milliseconds when tested at rated current (30mA), or as fast as 40 milliseconds at higher test currents. That breaks the shock before it can cause serious harm.

Modern homes have more risk points: Outdoor kitchens, bathroom LED mirrors, backyard power for spas and electric cars; every extra appliance is another potential fault point.

Insurance and legal peace of mind: Courts increasingly view RCDs as a basic duty of care. If an accident happens on a circuit that could have been protected, the owner may face liability.

Where RCDs Should be Installed?

Bathrooms & Ensuites

Water and electricity do not mix. Any power outlet or light fitting within reach of the bath or shower must be guarded by an RCD. Even the exhaust fan should be on a protected circuit in new builds.

Kitchens & Laundries

Splash zones around sinks, dishwashers and washing machines are now automatic RCD territory. Most kitchens run multiple dedicated circuits -cooktop, oven, fridge and general power, so expect more than one device here.

Outdoor Areas

Pools, spas, garden lighting, patio heaters and even the humble mower lead can all take on moisture. Outdoor sockets should either be an RCD outlet (weatherproof fitting with the safety switch built-in) or be fed from an RCD back at the switchboard.

Lighting Circuits

Modern electrical standards require RCD protection for lighting circuits in new installations and major alterations. This includes downlights, pendant lights and even fancy strip LEDs inside cabinets.

Dedicated Appliances & EV Chargers

Hard-wired air-conditioners, hot-water systems and especially electric vehicle chargers all sit on their own breakers. Today those breakers should be the combined type called an RCBO – an RCD and circuit breaker in one – so a fault on the air-con doesn’t shut off your fridge.

Special WA Requirements for Sales and Rentals

Western Australia has specific legal requirements: any residential property sold, rented, or made available as short-term rental accommodation must have at least two RCDs on the main switchboard protecting all power and lighting circuits. This requirement has been in place since 2009 for sales and rentals, with updates requiring compliance before transfer of title or tenancy.

If you own an older property with only one RCD (or none) you must upgrade before you can legally sell or lease the property.

Important Update: Type A RCD Requirements

A critical update to be aware of: From 30 April 2023, Type AC RCDs can no longer be installed in Australia.

All new RCD installations must now be Type A or better, which can detect both alternating current faults and pulsating direct current faults from modern electronic devices like LED lighting, electric vehicle chargers, and smart home equipment.

This change doesn’t affect existing installations, but if you’re upgrading or installing new RCDs, ensure your electrician uses Type A devices.

Renovations, Extensions and Older Homes

A common myth is “I’m just adding one extra power point, so I don’t need new safety switches.” In reality, any significant alteration to an existing circuit may trigger current safety standards, potentially requiring that circuit to have RCD protection.

Planning a kitchen makeover? Expect your electrician to quote for additional RCBOs. Swapping your 1990s fuse board for a modern switchboard? The new gear will include RCDs on every circuit as a matter of course.

Consult with Trusted Local Electricians for Reliable Safety Switch Installation Services

In Perth and beyond, several electricians can help you with professional and affordablesafety switch installation solutions. From swift and tidy RCD installations to full switchboard upgrades, they can cater to your needs and create a safe and compliant living environment. Here’s why hiring a trusted electrician team is beneficial:

• Same-day compliance checks: Perfect for landlords racing an inspection deadline
• Outdoor expertise: From pool pump boards to weatherproof garden outlets, PWA’s team knows what survives Perth’s salt air and summer storms
• Clear fixed pricing: No surprises when that extra circuit turns up behind a wall
• Free test-and-tag after install: Appliances on new circuits get a complimentary safety tag

Whether you need a single outlet converted or a whole switchboard rebuilt, experienced electricians arrive with stocked vans, quality replacement and new-installation gear, and the paperwork ready for your records.

One Small Switch, One Giant Leap for Safety

Bathrooms, alfresco kitchens, rental properties – these are the obvious places for RCD installation. But the safest, simplest and increasingly universal approach is RCD protection on every circuit in the home. It is quick, affordable and endorsed by every state regulator.

If you are unsure what hides behind your switchboard door, book an inspection with a trusted electrical company like PWA Electrical Services. They will test your existing devices, install RCDs where needed, and leave you with a labelled board, compliance certificate and peace of mind.

Also Read: RCD Installation: A Critical Step Toward Electrical Safety