Quick answer
Earthing provides a safe path for fault current so that protective devices trip quickly if something goes wrong. Without proper earthing, a fault could make your appliances dangerously live.
Earthing is one of the most important safety features in your home's electrical system. The earth wire (green and yellow) in every circuit and appliance provides a path for electricity to safely flow back to earth if a fault occurs — for example, if a live wire touches the metal casing of a washing machine. Without this path, the metal casing would become dangerously live and touching it could give you a fatal electric shock. Earthing also ensures the fuse or circuit breaker trips quickly when a fault occurs. Signs of poor earthing include electric shocks from metal appliances or taps, or an EICR report highlighting earthing deficiencies. Only a qualified electrician can assess and repair earthing issues.
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