How to upgrade your electrical outlets to RCDs

An RCD, or residual current device, is most commonly known in North America as a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These devices monitor the wires for imbalances in the electrical load due to leakage. When detected, the device shuts off the power, reducing the likelihood of electrocution. In modern residential buildings, they are required for kitchen, bathroom and exterior outlets. Upgrading your electrical outlets to RCDs is a simple, inexpensive job.

First, wear safety equipment to protect you. Put on the safety goggles and electrician's gloves, and turn off the main supply to your house if you have one, usually located near the electrical meter. If you cannot locate one, open the circuit breaker box and turn off the main breaker at the top. Lay the rubber mat down on the ground and stand on it while you connect the RCD Plugs GFCI plugs.

Second, open the breaker box. Test each breaker with the multimeter to ensure that no current is running through the breakers. Every multimeter works slightly differently, so refer to the directions included with yours. Undo the screw on the breaker that you wish to replace with an RCD. Pull the breaker out of the box. And check to see if the RCD is set to the off position. Push the RCD into the location from which you removed the breaker. Push the outer side in first and feel it click into place. Pull slightly on the RCD to be sure that it is in. There will be one wire already attached to the RCD Plugs GFCI plugs; ignore this at first.

Third, loosen the screw on the RCD, insert the wire that was connected to the breaker and tighten the screw. Follow the wire that is now connected to the RCD back to its origin in the box, where there should be a white neutral wire connected to it. Follow the neutral wire to where it connects to the bus bar on the breaker panel. Remove the screw to disconnect this wire. Loosen the screw on the RCD Plugs GFCI plugs that is labeled "Load Neutral." Attach the neutral white wire and tighten the screw. Pull out the wire that was attached to the RCD originally, before it was installed. Run this wire up to the location on the bus bar where you replaced the neutral wire. Place the wire in the slot and tighten the screw.

Finally, close the breaker box, turn the power back on at the breaker or the main power switch. Turn the RCD on back at the box.