Siemens Short Circuit or High Leakage at Start-Up

Siemens charger trips the upstream RCD or breaker immediately when a charging session starts.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Shorted contactor or wiring inside charger, Damaged tethered cable with conductor-to-earth fault, Incorrect type of upstream RCD (not EV-compatible), Water ingress causing leakage paths

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Repeated tripping indicates a serious fault. Do not bypass protective devices.

  • Visual inspection: With power OFF, open the charger and look for burnt wiring, melted insulation, or obvious shorts.
  • Check cable: Inspect the entire length of the tethered cable for cuts, crushing, or animal damage. Replace if any damage is found.
  • RCD type: Confirm that the upstream RCD is of a type recommended by Siemens (e.g., Type A with DC detection in charger, or Type B) and correctly rated.
  • Insulation testing: Have an electrician perform insulation resistance tests between live conductors and earth to locate faults.

If no external cause is found, internal components such as the contactor or control board may be shorted and require replacement.

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Repair Difficulty

Professional Required 5/5

Required Part

Tethered Cable / Main Power Contactor
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