How to check if a fuse feeds a ring final or 2 radial circuit

[247 handyman]

Hi guys. I need to check if I have a ring or 2 radial running from a fuse. I have an old wylex fuse box in which someone has put a blue 15amp fuse in a red 30amp carrier.
If I disconnect the 2 cables and check for continuity of the 2 lines then the 2 neutrals will this tell me if I have a ring or am I missing something ?

Thanks in advance guys

 

[kingeri]

It's not that simple mate, checking for continuity in that way will only prove that the two legs are interconnected at some point. They could be joined half way along but not be a ring. There is a specific test for this, but it is not something a none-spark should really be doing. I assume you are not a spark, judging by the question. Do you have an MFT?

 

[westward10]

Agree with above and you show you have no electrical qualifications. It would be a routine test for an electrician then you can fit the correct fuse and shield.

 

[247 handyman]

It's not that simple mate, checking for continuity in that way will only prove that the two legs are interconnected at some point. They could be joined half way along but not be a ring. There is a specific test for this, but it is not something a none-spark should really be doing. I assume you are not a spark, judging by the question. Do you have an MFT?

Thanks for the reply.
Your right pal I'm not a spark but I'm not a numpty either if you know what I mean. Yes I do have a multi meter. In your opinion is it something I can do with the help of good people like yourself ?
For reference this is not for a job but just to help my pensioner in laws out as it appears someone has, like I said, put a 15a fuse into a 30a carrier. I just want to sort it for them so they don't lose all sockets as they currently have done 4 times in the last 3 weeks.
Thanks for any constructive advice I really do appreciate it.

 

[kingeri]

To verify if it is a ring, you need to access every socket outlet on the circuit in turn (you will likely have to unscrew them all), after making temporary connections in the CU. You also need to know how to interpret the results obtained from your 'multi meter'.

 

[westward10]

You really need a continuity tester and whilst I understand wanting to help the in laws the circuit needs correct testing and it would be difficult to give instructions to a non qualified person without the correct meter.

 

[247 handyman]

Is this the test of resistance
L to L
N to N
E to E
Then cross connect L1 to L2 etc and check at the sockets
You tube is great for instruction videos

 

[Pete999]

Thanks for the reply.
Your right pal I'm not a spark but I'm not a numpty either if you know what I mean. Yes I do have a multi meter. In your opinion is it something I can do with the help of good people like yourself ?
For reference this is not for a job but just to help my pensioner in laws out as it appears someone has, like I said, put a 15a fuse into a 30a carrier. I just want to sort it for them so they don't lose all sockets as they currently have done 4 times in the last 3 weeks.
Thanks for any constructive advice I really do appreciate it.

 

[Midwest]

You tube is great for instruction videos

Why bother coming here then, when you think you can trust You Tube?

 

[247 handyman]

For advice as to suitability of the test. I rather hear from someone who does the job than a teacher who may have all the gear and no idea. Their is no substitute for real life experience

 

[kingeri]

For advice as to suitability of the test. I rather hear from someone who does the job than a teacher who may have all the gear and no idea. Their is no substitute for real life experience

....of which you have absolutely none in this instance.

 

[247 handyman]

Thanks for your reply
If I follow this would this give me the knowledge that it is indeed a ring final so I can put a 30a fuse in the red carrier

 

[Pete999]

Why bother coming here then, when you think you can trust You Tube?

Just trying to show the OP the complexity, of a RFC test and the need for the correct equipment, a multimeter is no good for this test, not something for what is a DIYer or in this case a Handy man, who in all honesty shouldn't be fluffing around with something he has very limited knowledge, these videos are very informative for trainees etc, absolutely not to be used by non sparkies

 

[247 handyman]

Thanks guys for the advice and constructive criticism. I guess they will just have to wait a bit longer for the brother in laws electrician to turn up. They've already waited 3 weeks as he's busy.

Thanks again guys

 

[247 handyman]

....of which you have absolutely none in this instance.

Correct which is why I asked the professionals who do have the experience for advice which I have duly taken.

Thanks again guys