How much does it cost to install a Residual Current Device (RCD)?
Is installing RCDs in Australia expensive? Is it a good choice?
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) are crucial for safety in homes and businesses. However, many property owners in Australia often ask: Are they expensive to install? Some upfront costs exist, but the investment is small. This is because it protects against electrical hazards, legal problems, and even deaths.
Understanding the Cost of Installing RCDs
The cost of installing RCDs in Australia varies. It depends on how many devices you need, the current electrical setup, and the fees from a licensed electrician. On average, installing a single RCD can range from $150 to $300, including parts and labour. However, for larger properties or older buildings requiring additional upgrades, the cost may increase to $600 to $1,000.
Some key factors influencing the cost include:
- Type of RCD: Different RCD models may have varying costs.
- Number of Circuits Required: More circuits may necessitate additional RCDs.
- Switchboard Upgrades: Older switchboards may need upgrades to accommodate new RCD installations.
Even though they can be expensive, the law requires RCDs for all new properties in Australia. This regulation began on January 1, 2019.
If someone sells or leases a property, they must install at least two RCDs. These should be on power and lighting circuits. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and legal consequences.
Why Are RCDs Essential?
RCDs are not just another piece of electrical hardware; they are life-saving devices. Cutting power quickly, in 10 to 50 milliseconds, can prevent serious accidents. This quick action can make a significant difference in avoiding dangerous situations. Here’s why every Australian home and business should consider RCDs an absolute necessity rather than an optional expense:
- Prevention of Electrical Fires: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and damaged appliances can cause fires. RCDs detect faults and shut off power immediately, preventing disasters.
- Protection Against Electricity: Even minor electrical faults can be deadly. An RCD gives instant protection. It helps when a child touches a live wire, or water touches a broken appliance.
- Regulatory Compliance & Insurance: Homes without RCDs may breach safety regulations, leading to financial penalties. Additionally, insurance companies may refuse to cover damages caused by electrical faults if someone did not install an RCD.
- Workplace Safety & WHS Compliance: Businesses must follow Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) rules. This helps protect employees from electrical risks. Failure to do so can result in lawsuits, shutdowns, and financial losses.
The Real Cost: Not Having RCDs
Failing to install RCDs can be significantly more expensive than the initial installation cost. Consider the following risks:
- A single electrical fire could cause tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage.
- An electric shock incident at work might result in legal expenses, litigation, and harm to reputation.
- Most importantly, the risk to human life is invaluable. No homeowner, landlord, or business owner should accept the risk of a preventable electrical accident. Such accidents can lead to serious injury or even death.
Conclusion
While RCD installation comes with an initial cost, the benefits far outweigh the expense. They are not just a legal requirement but a critical investment in safety. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business operator, ensuring your electrical systems have functioning RCDs is non-negotiable.
Is installing RCDs costly in Australia? Perhaps, but is it feasible to go without them?
