On a piece of paper, draw a rough diagram of the various power outlets in the home. Give each outlet a name that corresponds to the main appliances used in this outlet. For example: Where you plug in the kettle, where the washing machine or tumble dryer is plugged in, and so on. Don’t forget to include items such as the pool pump, security system, heating appliances, etc.
On the main distribution board, put down all plug switches to the ‘off’ position. Working with one switch at a time, put the first switch on. Arm yourself with a small appliance, perhaps a hairdryer that you can use to test each power outlet as you move through the house from point to point. As you determine which power outlets correspond with a switch on the main distribution board, mark this on your rough diagram. In this way you will have an accurate indication for the location of each power outlet associated with a specific plug switch on the main board.
Now you can make labels that can be placed on the distribution board, or close to the distribution board, in the event of an emergency.
Having a labelled distribution board will save you time and money should a fault occur. Knowing which particular switch is tripping narrows down the time spent searching for a problem and will cut down on the cost of fault-finding in the event that you need to call a qualified electrician.
Checking the Earth Leakage Switch
Older distribution boards allow for periodic testing of the Earth Leakage Switch. Should a fault occur in the wiring of a home the possibility of electrical shock is increased. Touching any metal appliance could result in electrical shock.
The earth leakage system is designed to protect you from electrical shock by creating a path for electricity to flow to ground. When the Earth Leakage Switch does not work this path is disrupted and increases the likelihood of electrical shock.
Ensure that your home is safe by regularly testing the Earth Leakage Switch by pressing the switch that is marked at earth leakage. Once pressed, the main trip switch on the distribution board should activate, switching off electrical supply throughout the house. If this does not occur, you need to call out a qualified electrician immediately to prevent accidental electrical shock.
GOOD TO KNOW
When testing the Earth Leakage Switch, make sure to let your family know in advance, so that appliances can be switched off before testing.
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