Electrical safety in older houses

Simple solutions for a safe and secure home

Since 2000, it is a requirement that residual current devices must be installed in all newly built homes. If, on the other hand, you live in an older home where the electrical system was installed long ago, there is a risk that your electrical distribution board does not consist of residual current devices or an arc fault detection device. This can mean major risks for the safety and security of your home, but can be quickly and easily prevented with the help of your electrician.

Residual current device

For us, it goes without saying that we should provide reliable electrical safety when you move into a new home. The safety of you, your children and any pets is always important for us. Frequently, electrical systems in older homes do not include a residual current device, which is a major safety risk because this provides fundamental protection against electrical fires and injuries. A residual current device cuts off the power immediately, when a suspected earth fault is identified. The residual current device works in both earthed and unearthed electrical installations and it cuts off the power immediately if there is an earth fault, in the electrical system and it also provides protection if electrical products are used incorrectly. An earth fault or misuse can occur at any time. For example, if an animal bites a cable, if an electrical product is used carelessly or if your child for some reason pokes something into the wall socket. The residual current device then reacts quickly enough to disconnect the power before a dangerous situation arises. In other words, investing in a residual current device is a cheap, reliable and secure life insurance that makes your life safer.

Double protection with arc fault detection device

If you want to protect your home further, GARO's arc fault detection device is a safe alternative. An arc is a powerful electrical discharge that causes high temperatures, in some cases up to several thousand degrees. This can be life-threatening, because it can cause severe burns as well as loud noise and intense light. An arc fault detection device assists when the residual current device does not trip and, for this reason, it acts as an extra security. In addition to providing arc protection, it also has the excellent characteristics of a personal protection switch. When it trips, the LED indicator shows whether this is due to a serial/parallel arc fault, overvoltage, self-test fault or if it has been manually turned off. In the event of a cable break, the arc fault detection device disconnects the current before sparks can be generated, making it a very effective way of preventing fires and increasing safety, for you and your family.