RCBOs Made Simple — Which One Should You Be Fitting?

If you care about quality, safety, and doing the job right, you are already fitting RCBOs. But not every RCBO is the same. Some are tall with solid neutral. Others are compact with switched neutral. Each one serves a purpose. And at Navitas, we build both to the highest standard.

Before you pick your next device, let’s break down what matters and where each RCBO fits best.

The differences between RCBOs

What Is an RCBO?

An RCBO is a Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent protection. In simple terms, it combines the function of an MCB and an RCD in a single device.

That means it protects against two things:

• Overloads and short circuits

• Earth leakage and residual current faults

  
  

When something goes wrong, whether it is a faulty appliance, a damaged cable, or residual leakage from modern devices, the RCBO trips to cut power and protect the circuit. It keeps people safe and it keeps boards clean.

RCBOs are now the go to choice in domestic installs. They provide true separation between circuits and deliver targeted protection that split load boards simply cannot match.

Which Product Standard Covers RCBOs?

RCBOs must meet the requirements of BS EN 61009 part one. This is the product standard that defines how they must be built, how they must perform, and how they must respond to faults.

At Navitas, we take it further. We test every single RCBO before it leaves the line. Not one in one hundred. Not one from each batch. Every device. Individually. This gives you confidence that what you are fitting is proven. Not assumed.

What Does BS 7671 Say About Using RCBOs?

The UK wiring regulations, known as BS 7671 with Amendment Two, give clear and practical guidance on when RCBOs should be used.

Here are three key sections to know:

Regulation 411.3.3This requires additional protection for socket outlets and other final circuits. The regulation specifies 30 milliamp protection. A single RCBO does this in one clean solution.

Regulation 314.1This states that circuits must be divided to reduce the risk of unwanted tripping. RCBOs allow you to give each circuit its own protection, making fault finding easier and improving safety across the board.

Regulation 531.3.2This recommends the use of Type A devices as a minimum standard. Many household appliances now leak small amounts of direct current during use. Type A RCBOs are designed to detect these and disconnect safely. All Navitas RCBOs are Type A as standard.

---

The Two Types of RCBOs and Where Each Belongs

Now let’s look at the two options from Navitas. Both are fully compliant. Both are individually tested. But each has its own strengths depending on the layout and demands of the install.

Tall Unidirectional Single Pole RCBO

The Tall RCBO

This is a single pole RCBO with a solid neutral. It is unidirectional, so it must be installed the correct way around.

It offers:

• 50 amp rating

• B curve response

• Clean performance at a lower price point

• Simple connections with a trusted layout

The tall RCBO is ideal for everyday boards. It is built for volume, delivers strong protection, and offers great value without cutting corners.

Compact Bidirectional Switched Neutral RCBO

The Compact RCBO

This is a single pole RCBO with a switched neutral. It disconnects both line and neutral under fault conditions and it is fully bidirectional. You can install it either way around.

It offers:

• 40 amp rating

• Available in B and C curve

• Smaller size for tight installs or stacked boards

• Cleaner cable runs and neater layouts

The compact RCBO is perfect when space is limited, or when the install calls for full flexibility and a modern finish.

So Which Should You Use?

There is no right or wrong choice — it depends on the job.Both RCBOs are built to Navitas standards. Both are tested one by one. Both are trusted by electricians who take pride in what they install.

Choose the tall RCBO when you need volume, simplicity, and strong value.Choose the compact RCBO when you need flexibility, switched neutral, or a smaller footprint.

Either way, you are not just fitting protection. You are building with intent.

---

Final Word

RCBOs are the new standard. Not just a nice to have, but the clearest way to deliver safety, separation, and compliance.

At Navitas, we believe every board should tell a story. A story of care, precision, and pride in the work.

Whichever RCBO you choose, you can trust it has been built to outperform and tested to prove it.

Fit it once. Fit it right. Black and green only.