Electricity powers our homes and businesses, but it also comes with serious risks if not managed safely. One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your family, staff, and property is by ensuring your electrical system includes working RCDs (Residual Current Devices).
At Split Air & Electrical, we help homeowners and businesses across Kalamunda and nearby suburbs stay safe and compliant with professional RCD installation and regular safety checks. Here’s what you need to know about RCDs — and why they’re essential for every property.
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a life-saving safety switch that quickly cuts off the power when it detects an imbalance in the electrical current — such as when electricity is flowing through an unintended path (for example, through a person).
In simpler terms, an RCD helps prevent electric shock and electrical fires by stopping electricity in a fraction of a second.
While circuit breakers and fuses protect your wiring and appliances from overloads, RCDs protect people. That’s why they’re one of the most important components in any modern electrical system.
RCDs save lives — it’s that simple. Electrical faults can occur at any time, even in newer homes or recently renovated properties. Moisture, wear and tear, or damaged cords can all cause current leaks that may lead to serious injury or fatal shocks.
By detecting these faults instantly, an RCD can cut the power before harm is done. Without an RCD, a person receiving an electric shock may be exposed to current for much longer, greatly increasing the risk of injury or death.
For businesses, RCDs aren’t just about safety — they also help meet workplace health and safety obligations, protecting both employees and customers from electrical hazards.
Without RCDs, your electrical system has no protection against earth leakage faults. That can lead to:
Electric shocks from faulty appliances or exposed wiring.
Electrical fires caused by undetected current leaks.
Property damage and injury liability for homeowners and business operators.
In short, the small cost of installing RCDs is nothing compared to the risk of not having them.
In Western Australia, RCD installation isn’t optional — it’s the law.
Under WA electrical safety regulations:
All residential properties must have at least two RCDs installed before being sold or leased.
Rental properties must have RCDs installed on all power and lighting circuits.
Businesses and workplaces are also required to ensure RCDs are installed and functioning as part of their safety compliance.
Failing to comply can lead to hefty fines, but more importantly, it puts lives at risk.
If you’re unsure whether your property in Kalamunda or surrounding areas like Lesmurdie, Gooseberry Hill, or Maida Vale meets these requirements, our team can carry out a quick compliance check and give you peace of mind.
Even the best RCDs need regular testing to ensure they work properly. Over time, electrical components can degrade or become less responsive.
We recommend:
Pressing the test button on your RCDs every three months. (You should hear a “click” as the power cuts off.)
Professional testing every 12 months for homes and at least every 6 months for businesses or workplaces.
During a professional safety check, our electricians test your RCDs under load and inspect your switchboard for any hidden faults that might not be obvious to the eye.
Skipping these checks means you could have a faulty RCD that won’t trip when it’s needed most — leaving you and your family unprotected.
At Split Air & Electrical, we make RCD installation simple and stress-free.
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Assessment: We inspect your switchboard and wiring to determine how many RCDs are needed and identify any existing issues.
Installation: Our licensed electricians professionally install RCDs that meet Australian Standards, ensuring complete coverage for all power and lighting circuits.
Testing: After installation, we thoroughly test the RCDs to confirm they trip within the required time — ensuring your system is operating safely.
Certification and Advice: We provide documentation for your records and practical advice on how to test your RCDs regularly.
Our goal is to make sure your property is not only compliant but genuinely safe.
Not sure if your home or business has RCDs installed? Here’s what to look for:
Open your switchboard and look for switches labelled “RCD” or “Safety Switch” — usually with a test button.
If you only see circuit breakers (without test buttons), you likely don’t have RCD protection.
Check your property compliance certificate or rental inspection reports for confirmation.
If you’re uncertain, don’t take chances. Our qualified electricians can quickly inspect your switchboard and confirm whether your property meets WA safety standards.
As a locally owned and operated business based in Kalamunda, Split Air & Electrical understands the needs of local homeowners and businesses.
Our qualified team provides:
Professional RCD installation and replacement
Comprehensive safety inspections and testing
Upgrades for older switchboards
Prompt, reliable service across Kalamunda and nearby suburbs
We’re committed to helping our community stay safe with reliable, compliant electrical systems — and we stand by our workmanship on every job.
Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Whether you’re a homeowner wanting peace of mind or a business needing to meet compliance requirements, Split Air & Electrical can help.
Contact us today to book an RCD inspection or get a free quote for installation in Kalamunda and surrounding areas.
Stay safe. Stay compliant. Stay powered with Split Air & Electrical.
