Electrical problems in Thailand
Living in the tropics is pleasant, however there are some dangers that are totally ignored in the design of electrical installations (except in special cases).
Besides the fact that cable sections and circuit breaker sizing are often neglected and can cause an electrical fire, there is also the protection of human beings that is often neglected.
For example, the main circuit breaker of the house, generally 63A for single-phase, is very rarely "differential" (or RCBO). This means that an accidental contact with the phase can become fatal, especially since the custom in Thailand is to be barefoot at home... on tiles...
Often a general RCBO at 30mA is installed, but most people who have that experience problems with untimely tripping during the rainy season.
These trippings are normal but annoying. Often these trippings are due to outdoor lighting, which has lost its seal and lets in a few drops that condense.
What should be done?
First of all, find where this circuit is connected—that's often the most complex part. Once this circuit is found, isolate it and confirm that the leak comes from there (this can be done the day after a heavy rain).
Once that's found, adding a dedicated RCBO at 10mA allows the circuit to trip in this case but not the general one.
Ideally, if possible, we can review all the sealing or install a dedicated and isolated 12V circuit (like in swimming pools), but often it's too costly and complex.
