Our Electricians have provided information on installing electrical equipment outdoors in Sheffield.
Why do I need a residual current device (RCD) when using Electrical Equipment Outdoors?
Firstly, installing electrical equipment outdoors in Sheffield requires an RCD. Consequently, without it a simple job like mowing the lawn could turn into a deadly disaster. Therefore, an RCD is a safety device that switches off electricity automatically if there is a fault. Moreover, all equipment such as lawnmowers should only be plugged into a socket protected by an RCD.
RCD information
Secondly, for protection the rated tripping current of the RCD must be less than 30A. Therefore, if you haven’t got RCD protected sockets or the device in the fuse-box isn’t suitable you should use a good-quality portable RCD.
Next, check that portable RCDs are clearly marked to confirm that they meet BS 7071 and the rated current is 13A.
Whatever the type of RCD you have in your home, you must regularly test it by using the ‘test’ button on the device. For portable RCDs, you should test these every time you use them. However, do not hold the test button for a long period if the device does not trip. If the RCD does not switch off the supply when you use the test button, get advice from a registered electrician.
Extension leads, cables and connections
If you do not check the condition of extension leads, cables and connections and use them correctly, you could get an electric shock. Keep this in mind when installing electrical equipment outdoors in Sheffield.
For safety make sure they are:
- Weather-resistant.
- Suitable for outdoor use connections that prevent moisture seeping in.
- Rated correctly to suit the equipment connected.
- Uncoiled to prevent overheating.
- Kept clean and free from damage.
- Replaced if damage is found.
- Used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Positioned appropriately to prevent them being damaged.
- Kept dry.
Mowing the lawn
Lawnmowers have sharp blades and rapidly turning parts, which can cut through electrical cables as easily as grass. As a result, the chances of electric shock are high.
For safety:
- Do not cut the grass in wet conditions.
- Wear sensible footwear to protect your feet.
- Check the cables, connections and plugs before use.
- Keep the cable clear of the cutting area.
- Before clearing grass blockages or carrying out maintenance, unplug the lawnmower and wait for the blades to stop turning.
Finally, we hope the information on installing electrical equipment outdoors in Sheffield was useful. See our jargon buster for more information https://www.atomelectric.co.uk/electrical-information-safety-advice-sheffield/jargon-buster/ and there is information for kitchen safety https://www.atomelectric.co.uk/electrical-information-safety-advice-sheffield/kitchen-safety/
