Loop testers and RCD testers are critical tools for professionals in the electrical industry, enabling them to assess the safety, compliance, and performance of electrical circuits and protective devices. By utilising these testers, electricians, electrical engineers, safety inspectors, facility managers, and maintenance technicians can ensure electrical systems are operating safely and within regulatory standards.

Loop and RCD testers can work in tandem, with an RCD (Residual Current Device) capable of breaking an electrical circuit before it causes harm, whereas a Loop Tester is a quick, convenient and highly specific method of evaluating an electrical circuit for its ability to engage protective devices (circuit breakers, fuses, Ground-fault circuit interrupter).

RS offers a wide range of Loop and RCD testers from reputable brands like Megger and our very own RS PRO. These include combined Loop and RCD testers which provide comprehensive testing for both loop impedance and RCD functionality. Additionally, RS stocks earth loop impedance testers, which are essential for measuring the resistance of the earth connection in electrical installations. These testers ensure that electrical systems are safe and compliant with regulations. Whether you need a basic tester or a more advanced model with non-tripping technology, RS has a variety of options to suit different testing needs. Furthermore, RS provides calibration services to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your testing equipment, offering quick turnaround times and compliance with industry standard.

Loop Tester Functions

The key functions of earth loop impedance testing is to verify that if a fault occurs in an electrical installation, sufficient current will flow to operate the fuse or circuit breaker protecting the faulty circuit within a predetermined time. The aim is to make sure that the circuit is disconnected fast enough to prevent overheating and possibly a fire.

RCD Tester Functions

The key functions of an RCD tester is to monitor the safety of electrical circuits. In a single-phase circuit, it monitors the difference in currents between the line and neutral conductors. This life-saving device is designed to prevent fatal electric shocks if you touch something live, such as a bare wire, offering a level of personal protection that ordinary fuses and circuit-breakers cannot provide.

The term RCD is a generic term applied to a family of products that automatically open in response to a residual current equal to or greater than the RCD's rated residual operating current. Within this family, an RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker) differs from an RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent) in that the RCBO also responds to overcurrent conditions, whereas the RCCB does not. Additionally, the term SRCD (Socket Residual Current Device) refers to an RCD that is an integral part of a socket outlet or is fitted in a box immediately next to a socket outlet. Please see our RCD testing guide to learn more.

Why choose RS for your Loop and RCD Testers?

RS have a comprehensive range of Loop and RCD Testers for a multitude of applications as well as on hand technical advisers that can provide you with vital information not only on the product, but on our calibrated service. All of our products are available for next day delivery.