Floppy main power switch on Sargent control unit

[Gromett]

Got a campsite guest who's electric isn't working. Confirmed everything is ok up to the consumer unit inside the van.
He tells me the main switch/breaker in the sargent unit is a bit floppy. It goes up and drops back down half way.

Any suggestions I can pass on to him? I am not familiar with Sargent equipment sorry.

 

[autorouter]

It depends on exactly what kind of breaker it is. For example, if it's an RCBO (which is a combined RCD and MCB) then it might indicate that there is an earth leakage in the circuit. That can make it switch halfway off, as opposed to an excessive current flow, which will switch it fully off.

It's a bit hard to tell the difference between an RCBO and the other two types, RCD and MCB. First, it will have a small 'Test' button on it. but also it will have the current trip rating written on it. Not as an ordinary number but with a letter in front. Typically B16, C16, B10, C6, that kind of thing, not a number like 20A or 40A.

Or it could be a normal MCB that's failed, I suppose. Try unplugging everything and retrying. If it's a kettle with a failed heating element for example.

Worth noting that if you decide you want a new one, it may be best to go to a caravan accessories shop rather than a DIY store. DIY stores only have single-pole types, not double-pole types required in a motorhome.

 

[Gromett]

It depends on exactly what kind of breaker it is. For example, if it's an RCBO (which is a combined RCD and MCB) then it might indicate that there is an earth leakage in the circuit. That can make it switch halfway off, as opposed to an excessive current flow, which will switch it fully off.

It's a bit hard to tell the difference between an RCBO and the other two types, RCD and MCB. First, it will have a small 'Test' button on it. but also it will have the current trip rating written on it. Not as an ordinary number but with a letter in front. Typically B16, C16, B10, C6, that kind of thing, not a number like 20A or 40A.

Or it could be a normal MCB that's failed, I suppose. Try unplugging everything and retrying. If it's a kettle with a failed heating element for example.

Worth noting that if you decide you want a new one, it may be best to go to a caravan accessories shop rather than a DIY store. DIY stores only have single-pole types, not double-pole types required in a motorhome.

It's not a standard consumer unit from what the gentleman said. It is an all in one charger, 12v and 240 distribution box. I have since looked at the sergent website and I am guessing he will need to take it to a dealer to get sorted.

You do know my original trade was sparky? I was not able to look at the unit, I was only going off his description as I am not prepare to take on the responsibility/risk by getting too involved.

Was just hoping that someone had a sargent unit that this had happened to and had a quick fix/tip.

 

[Gromett]

PS: Thanks autorouter.

PPS: The gentleman concerned is happy to stay off hookup. He has 12v and solar panel is working fine so he can survive. I am going to leave it at that.

 

[Jev88]

Is it one of those trips that you have to fully push down hard before flicking back "up"

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[Gromett]

Is it one of those trips that you have to fully push down hard before flicking back "up"

No, he tried that. But thanks for the suggestion.

 

[Carolyn and Kev]

Is it this type Gromett?

 

[Gromett]

Is it one of those trips that you have to fully push down hard before flicking back "up"

Just went over and demonstrated the fully push down before going back up on the post. He then tried it in his van and it didn't work. I think it is too old a unit for that.
Thanks for the suggestion though.

I think he is going to stop in at sargents on his way up as he is passing them.

 

[Gromett]

View attachment 802700

Is it this type Gromett?

I don't know sorry. I haven't seen it. I think he is looking at this thread though?

 

[Tricky Dicky]

Hi autorouter thanks for the reply I'am afraid it's beyond me .But we are at Jim's campsite at the moment and going north so will call in to Sargents place in Beverly and let them have a look. Thanks again. Trickydicky.

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