Hi, perhaps im being really stupid here but i flicked the rcd switch for my downstairs lights to 'off' when having trouble removing a bulb. I've switched the switch back to 'on' but no lights will come on. any ideas ?

John, April 2010

Would have thought that Lighting circuits were not supposed to be protected by the RCD - only sockets, immersion heater etc.

J, April 2010

RCD = Residual Current Device - when operated usually switches off ALL power to all circuits

MCB = Miniature Circuit Breaker - acts as a fuse / isolator for just one circuit - upstairs power or downstairs lights for instance.

If RCD is set to on and all MCBs are set to on and your lights don't work then you may have a defective MCB (unlikely but posible) or there may be an open circuit in the lighting cables - Live or Neutral.

You may do well to call an electrician.

Good luck... take care...

Lord Finchley tried to mend the Electric Light
Himself. It struck him dead: And serve him right!
It is the business of the wealthy man
To give employment to the artisan.

Peccavi, April 2010