vikavirtasuojakytkimiä

Vikavirtasuojakytkin, often abbreviated as RCD (Residual Current Device) or GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) in English, is a safety device designed to protect people from electric shock and reduce the risk of electrical fires. It functions by continuously monitoring the electrical current flowing through a circuit. If the current flowing out of the circuit is not equal to the current returning, indicating that some current is leaking, typically through a person or an appliance fault, the device rapidly interrupts the power supply. This rapid interruption is crucial for preventing serious injury or electrocution.

Vikavirtasuojakytkimiä are typically installed in the main electrical panel of a building or as part of a socket outlet. They are sensitive to small imbalances in current, often tripping at a fault current of 30 milliamperes (mA) or less. This sensitivity is far lower than that of standard circuit breakers, which are designed to protect equipment from overloads and short circuits, not primarily from personal electric shock. The presence and correct functioning of vikavirtasuojakytkimiä are considered essential safety measures in modern electrical installations, particularly in areas where the risk of electric shock is higher, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. Regular testing of these devices is recommended to ensure their continued effectiveness.