There are many different protective devices that you may utilize when doing electrical work. Each of these devices serves a slightly different purpose and operates in a different way, but each can be quite useful when it comes to keeping your wiring protected.
The MCB
One of the protective devices you can use is the MCB. The MCB works by sensing when an overload has occurred and than automatically turning off the current. By turning off and preventing a blow out, the MCB does not need to be replaced as a fuse does when it blows. Regular circuits, such as those used with lighting and cookers, can be protected with MCBs.
The RCD
Another protective device is the RCD. The RCD is similar to the MCB, but is different in two key ways. First, the RCC is connected to the neutral wire as well as the live wire in the consumer unit. As a result, it becomes a double pole switch. The MCB, on the other hand, is only connected to the live side. Another difference with the RCD is that it does not only detect a current overload. Instead, it also detects the fault that caused the overload to occur.
Since the RCD provides a greater amount of protection, it should be used with those circuits that require more protection. These include sockets that are used for outdoor appliances, showers, and external 240V lighting.
The RCBO
In order to provide the greatest amount of protection, you might want to install an RCBO. An RCBO, which is a combination of RCD and MCB, is a residual circuit breaker that also offers over current protection.
If all of this seems to be a bit confusing to you, you might want to consider taking an electrical course or two in order to learn more about electrical work. Before starting any do-it-yourself project that involves electricity, it is important for you to be very comfortable with the job and to know precisely how to do it. Otherwise, you put yourself and your family at risk of fire, shock, or simply loss of power because of a poor wiring job.
If you are really interested in electrical work and think that you might want to pursue it as a career options, there are numerous electrical courses offered throughout the UK that will help you obtain the proper training. Just be certain to get your training from an institution that can take you all the way to becoming a fully qualified electrician or that can help you qualify to become a Part P registered Domestic Installer.