The electrician suggested that a difavtomat or an RCD is better

One of the most important tasks during the installation and further operation of electrical appliances is the competent organization of electrical safety. This is actually why many people are interested in which is better – a difavtomat or an RCD. These are devices that respond to current leakage and surges. In the event of unforeseen problems, the devices will provide a protective shutdown, which means they will protect electrical appliances from damage.

General concept of devices

Before you figure out which device is better, it’s worth finding out what they are. In short, the devices are responsible for the following:

1. RCD – an automatic switch that opens the contacts when the electric current leakage exceeds certain values. Its disadvantage is that it does not perform the function of an automatic machine, since it does not have built-in overcurrent protection.
2. Difavtomat (AVDT) – performs several functions at once, namely an automatic machine and a differential current device. It provides protection for wiring against overloads, short circuits and leaks when a specified value is exceeded. The device prevents the cable from catching fire and also protects users from electric shock.

Modern RCDs are produced in a compact plastic case. A special handle is installed in the front part, which includes a chain. The back part serves as a place for a special groove with a latch - with the help of it the switch is fixed to the DIN rail.

A residual current device will help detect current leakage, but they will not be able to cope with power line overload and short circuit. For the required level of protection, the RCD must be installed in conjunction with a circuit breaker.

In fact, there is no better or worse device, it all depends on the specific task that the device must perform. The RCBO is capable of disconnecting the wiring if an overload or short circuit is detected. The RCD, in turn, does the same, but when there is any current leakage. But the second option does not guarantee safety for a person and his property, unlike the first.

Comparative characteristics

To understand which device is better, it is worth comparing both in different criteria. It’s better to start with the space occupied in the shield. The RCD must be installed together with the circuit breaker, so it requires 3 modules, while its competitor only needs 2.

Connection diagram

This aspect is most often paid attention to when choosing a suitable device. The fact is that the speed spent on connection will determine not only the initial installation, but also subsequent dismantling if any breakdowns occur.

Each device is connected differently. The RCD has a more complex circuit, since you will have to use an additional jumper so that the phase from the machine is supplied to the RCD. In this case, the difavtomat wins; it is enough to drop the phase and zero on the input contacts of the device.

Ease of use

For ordinary users who are not particularly versed in the circuits and devices of electrical panels, it is much easier to operate a difavtomat.This is due to the fact that each group of sockets has its own RCBO, which even a housewife can figure out.

The device of an RCD is much more complicated, especially if not one machine is connected to it, but several, and each of them is located in different places. It would be impossible for the average person to understand such a scheme.

Price of components

A set of RCD and circuit breaker costs an order of magnitude cheaper than a circuit breaker with the same characteristics. The fact is that the second device has a more complex design; it initially contains several functions. Naturally, you will have to pay extra for this.

The price advantage of the RCD+automatic device is obvious, this is especially noticeable during long-term operation, when the device has already failed and has to be replaced.

troubleshooting

One of the most interesting criteria, it is the one that is most often used to compare both devices. If problems arise with the RCD, then it is easy to determine the malfunction, since this breakdown is directly related to a short circuit or network overload.

If difficulties arise with the automatic machine, you will have to “puff”; identifying the problem yourself, without experience, will be difficult. In some cases, the assistance of a qualified electrician will be required. Although devices from the professional series have a built-in indicator that independently identifies the problem.

At this point, a combination of an RCD with a machine also benefits, since the cause of the operation is identified much faster and easier.

In fact, figuring out which device is better is quite difficult. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.It is necessary to select a device taking into account the specific case, purpose and intended priorities.