How do I test whether my ECLB or RCCB is working?

You can perform the following 3-step test to ensure your Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) or Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) is working and protects all electrical circuits in your home.

• Test the ELCB or RCCB by pressing the ‘Test’ button. The ELCB or RCCB switch will flip down and cut off all power supply in your home. If the ELCB or RCCB switch does not flip down, it is faulty. Homeowners should contact a Licensed Electrical Worker for assistance immediately.

• Test all light switches and power sockets in every room. The ELCB or RCCB is working if lights and power sockets do not turn on when the circuit breaker switch is flipped down. If any light or power socket continues to work when the circuit breaker switch is flipped down, the house is not fully protected by the circuit breaker. Homeowners should contact a Licensed Electrical Worker for assistance immediately.

• Flip up ELCB or RCCB switch to restore power supply. Switch on lights and appliances that you need.

For a detailed step-by-step guide, please visit our RCCB Safety. You are advised to test your ELCB or RCCB once a month to check that it is in good working condition.

All homeowners can engage a Licensed Electrical Worker to install an RCCB if necessary. It is recommended to contact a few LEWs to perform price comparisons before engaging one.  For HDB flats, HDB will be writing to the homeowners of 3-room and larger HDB flat types, completed in and before 1985 without an RCCB, to share more information on the assistance programme for the installation of RCCB.