How to choose and connect an RCD machine to a washing machine

If the wiring is not designed for increased voltage, failures occur, surges in the network, equipment breaks down. Therefore, it is important to choose an RCD for connecting a washing machine. Then you don’t have to worry that an expensive washing machine will fail, even if you live in an old house.

RCD selection by type and power

It is recommended to install an individual RCD on the washing machine. Why is it important to do this in the case of a washer? Because it consumes a large amount of energy, which creates a significant load on the electrical network and wiring.

The degree depends on the type of washing machine. Washers with a drying mode load the network the most.

RCD protects equipment from damage, and a person from electric shock. In case of any deviations from the norm in the network (overvoltage, short circuit), the RCD is triggered. His lever is turned off, which breaks the chain.

If the user touches an accidentally exposed wire, the machine will work, which will protect him from electric shock.

Principle of operation

Before deciding which machine to choose, consider its structure. RCD consists of

  • transformer;
  • protective housing made of plastic;
  • sensor for self-testing;
  • circuit breakers;
  • electromagnetic compartments. 

When a power surge occurs in the network, a device is triggered to break the circuit. The lever on the machine is turned off, the wiring is de-energized. Which machine to put on your washing machine? Depends on the strength of the voltage. Today they are releasing new versions that combine RCD and difavtomat. The differential circuit breaker serves not only as overvoltage protection, but also as a fire switch.

The price of a difavtomat is much higher than an RCD. But it is better to install normal protection once than to change it later.

To choose, you need to evaluate the condition and power of the wiring.

Right choice of

What machine is needed, and how many amperes should it pull? In the case of a difavtomat, it is better to make a choice towards a device with 0,03 Amp. Also, the view depends on the type of network: single-phase, three-phase. Pay attention to the marking of devices. For a standard household network, choose an RCD with the designation “C”. For a socket with an RCD, the designation C16, C25 is suitable. At the same time, the most effective one is marked A. But AC is suitable for domestic use.

Installation and Connection

Installing a circuit breaker yourself is easy. You can place it in the electrical panel. If there is not enough space there, then the installation is done near the washing machine, close to the outlet. Only a waterproof socket should be used for connection. 

How to connect an electrical appliance:

  • If you are connecting through the shield, then stretch the VVG wire to the washer – 3×2,5 mm in size.
  • Take an indicator to find out where the phase is and where is zero. An example connection diagram is shown below. Connect these wires to the difavtomat.
  • After the conclusions of these wires, connect to an outlet or extension cord with an RCD.

That’s all. You have installed a separate machine for the washing machine. If you want to connect more equipment, the circuit will become more complicated, since a separate RCD must be installed for each device.

We talked about how to connect a washing machine to a network without grounding in previous articles.

If the RCD knocks out when the SMA is turned on

Why does this happen:

  1. The machine is faulty.
  2. An error occurred while installing the safety device.
  3. The power cord of the washer is shorted.
  4. The selected device does not match the parameters.
  5. The motor, heater or electronic unit of the washer has broken.

Take care of the safety of your family and equipment today so that tomorrow you do not have to deal with the consequences of an accident.

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