Why do Appliances Blow Electrical Fuses Frequently?
Experiencing a blown fuse is not something new or unusual for a homeowner.
Experiencing a blown fuse is not something new or unusual for a homeowner. However, a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker can leave appliances like a refrigerator, washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, or microwave oven inoperable until someone replaces the fuse or resets the breaker. While it is not uncommon for an appliance to blow a fuse once when plugging it in or using it, if it happens frequently, it is essential to evaluate and find the root cause of the issue.
A blown electrical fuse can be annoying. Here are the few possible causes of an appliance that keeps blowing a fuse:
Overloaded circuits
A common reason for an appliance blowing an electrical fuse frequently is a circuit overload. Home appliances draw a lot of power. When several appliances are plugged in on the same circuit, the circuit may have to provide more electricity than its capacity, overloading it and blowing a fuse to prevent overheating or fire. First, unplug all the appliances on the circuit and plug them or turn them on one by one to see which one trips the circuit breaker. Then, connect a few appliances somewhere else to avoid overloading.
Short circuit
A loose connection or faulty wiring can cause an appliance to blow a fuse. Suppose the electric cord on the appliance has any exposed wire or corroded prongs or any electrical component of the appliance is damaged. In that case, it can result in a short circuit that can blow a fuse multiple times. A short circuit can result in a surge through the electrical system, tripping the breaker.
Damaged or outdated outlet
Sometimes, an issue with the outlet can cause the breaker to trip. A burning odor, discolored or melted plastic, smoke, and black marks around the socket are some signs of a faulty or outdated electrical outlet. If an appliance trips the breaker due to a faulty outlet, one can confirm by plugging the appliance into a different socket on the same circuit. If the breaker does not trip after using a different socket, the issue is not with the appliance but the outlet. Call a qualified electrician to inspect, repair, or replace the faulty electrical outlet.
An issue with the appliance
A problem with the appliance can also cause it to blow electrical fuses frequently. If an appliance is improperly connected or assembled, worn out, has a loose connection or frayed wire, or is simply poorly made, it can trip the breaker. To see if the issue is with the appliance, plug it into a different circuit or unplug all appliances and devices, leaving only the potentially faulty appliance. For a faulty appliance, either replace it or get the necessary repair done before using the appliance again.
An issue with the breaker
An appliance can also blow an electrical fuse if the breaker is undersized or failing. Circuit breakers also wear out with time. Some issues with the breaker include failure to reset, burning odor from the panel, frequent tripping, scorch marks on the breaker box, and other electrical problems in the home.
Safeguard the electrical system
An appliance blowing electrical fuses frequently is a problem a homeowner should never ignore. It indicates an underlying problem that needs professional assistance. Call a local electrician to diagnose and repair the problem.
Kennedy Electric is a reliable full-service electrical company serving residential and commercial customers in Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco Counties. We offer electrical repairs, boat lift wiring, remodels, low voltage lighting, generator hookups, RV power, electrical inspections, fan installation, home lighting, new circuits, panels, and more. Call today at 352-251-2795.
