Shower Keeps Tripping the RCD or Breaker? Don’t Ignore It
If your electric shower is repeatedly tripping your fuseboard, it’s a warning sign that something isn’t right. Whether it’s the RCD (Residual Current Device) or MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker), these trips are there to protect you from serious hazards — especially in the bathroom, where water and electricity meet.
Top Reasons Your Shower Might Be Causing Trips
- Earth leakage: A fault in the shower unit or wiring may cause current to escape to earth, triggering the RCD.
- Overloading: Showers over 8.5kW may require a separate circuit with the correct breaker and cabling.
- Worn heating element: Water inside the shower unit can degrade components over time, causing trips when it heats up.
- Incorrect circuit protection: Old consumer units may not provide proper RCD coverage.
- Wiring faults: Loose connections or damaged cable within ceilings or walls, especially in older homes.
What Burridge Electrical Will Check
When we’re called out for a tripping electric shower, our process usually includes:
- Testing the RCD and MCB for correct function
- Running an insulation resistance test on the shower circuit
- Checking shower terminals for heat damage or corrosion
- Assessing if the circuit complies with current regulations (18th Edition)
- Verifying earthing and bonding in the bathroom
We use calibrated test equipment and always provide a clear explanation of our findings.
Electric Showers Require Proper Circuit Protection
Bathroom circuits need to be protected by an RCD and sized correctly for the load. If your property still has an older fuseboard, a consumer unit upgrade may be needed to handle your shower safely.
All our work is carried out by NAPIT registered electricians and includes certification that’s Building Control compliant.
Common Repairs & Recommendations
- Replace faulty shower units with water-resistant models
- Upgrade wiring to 6mm or 10mm² if undersized
- Install RCBOs for dedicated protection
- Rewire bathroom safely if other faults are found
Need Help in Bristol? Call a Local Electrician You Can Trust
Based in Bristol and serving areas like Kingswood, Brislington, Staple Hill and more — Burridge Electrical provides professional, reliable service backed by proper testing, repair, and safe shower installation.