new dryer trips breaker when plugged in

How To Fix It

Dryer Keeps Tripping Breaker? 5 Essential Things To Check

If your dryer keeps tripping the breaker, a few things should be checked first. In most cases, it’s either a problem with the motor, heating element, a faulty wire or termination, worn-out breaker, or circuit overload. We’ll take a look at the most common (and not-so-common) causes of a dryer that keeps tripping the breaker .

Why Your Dryer Keeps Tripping The Breaker

Table of Contents

Finding the source of the problem will dictate the best way to repair it . But before we go too far, take a look at the circuit breaker in your home electrical panel. The breaker for the dryer should be a 30 amp, 2-pole breaker. That means it has two, or the equivalent of two, handles (usually tied together with a bracket or pin).

If your breaker is smaller than 30 amps, this could be your problem. However, DO NOT SWAP OUT THE BREAKER FOR A LARGER BREAKER unless you know for sure that your copper wire is 10-gauge or larger (8-gauge minimum for aluminum).

If you’re in doubt, have an electrician or other experienced individual take a look at it. The breaker is sized according to the wire size to keep it from melting. If you have a 30 amp breaker, great. You can check that off the list and move on.

The following are some common things that may cause your dryer to trip a breaker:

Circuit Breaker is Weak

Over time, circuit breakers can weaken , especially if they have tripped and been reset many times over the years. And, even if the amperage draw of the dryer is below the breaker’s original limit, it can cause it to trip if the breaker is getting tired.

However, a weak circuit breaker is not what I would call a common problem, except in older homes. Generally, breakers are quite reliable and have a good longevity to them.

But if your circuit breaker is 15 to 20 years old, it can weaken and start to trip occasionally. If the breaker is on the newer side, chances are good that your problem lies elsewhere.

One way to test is with a

As mentioned above, a typical dryer is wired to a 30 amp breaker. So if you measure the amperage while the dryer runs, and it draws anywhere near 30 amps before the breaker trips, you can bet your problem is not the breaker.

In normal operation, a typical dryer will not exceed 21 amps. So if you get much more than that, it indicates an overcurrent problem at the dryer. Keep in mind that all dryers are different and I’m giving you general information here.

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If the current (amp) draw is staying under 21 or so, and the breaker trips, then it could very well be a weak breaker. But pay attention to the precise spot in the drying cycle the breaker trips .

If you repeat the test, and it happens again at the same spot, the issue could still be inside the dryer itself.

Replacing a breaker is a fairly easy task for someone with a little experience. In fact, chances are, you have another 30 amp, 2-pole breaker in the panel (for a water heater or heat pump, for example). You can borrow that temporarily and test the dryer circuit on it.

Be sure to turn off your panel main breaker before you work on swapping around breakers. And again, if you’re not confident in your own abilities, get help.

If you determine it’s not a breaker problem, put it back together and move on to the next section below.

Heating Element or Heating Element Assembly Failure

The heating element might have failed in your dryer .

If this occurs, it can short out against the housing, and trip the circuit breaker. A key indicator is when the breaker trips at the same point in the drying cycle each time.

To check the heating element you’ll use a multimeter and test each terminal for continuity to the case (metal body or frame of the dryer).

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If continuity from either terminal to the case is present, the heating element has probably shorted out and needs to be replaced.

However, it’s also possible that the heating element assembly is at fault. You’ll check it similarly to the heating element, using a

If it’s shorted out, you’ll have to replace the assembly .

Note: In most modern dryers, the heating element and assembly are packaged together so that you cannot replace them independently.

Internal Short

If the problem isn’t with the circuit breaker or a heating element failure, it might be an internal short that’s causing it to trip. Several issues can cause this including:

• A bad door switch
• Defective Timer
• Burnt motor windings
• The on/off switch isn’t operating correctly

To check each of these areas, you’ll use the ohmmeter setting of your

If so, you can replace or repair them, and this should likely resolve the tripping of the circuit breaker while the dryer is operating.

Terminal Block

Power cords on electrical dryers attach at a terminal block. If there are loose wires on the terminal block this can cause them to arc and ultimately disrupt the power source.

This can cause the wire to short against nearby grounded metal, and causes the dryer breaker to trip. Although not common, I have witnessed it myself.

What’s the solution? Check the terminal block. If wires are loose, tighten them. Screws or nuts should be nice and snug. Don’t overtighten.

If you notice signs of arcing ( soot and discolored or melted portions), you might have to replace the terminal block.

Pigtail Connection and Outlet

Having tight connections doesn’t help us if the wires are connected to the wrong terminals. So take a minute to make sure the pigtail is attached correctly at the terminal block. Make certain that all four (three in some cases) conductors are connected to their proper terminals.

Most dryers have color-coded terminals: Black, Red, White, & Green. Match color for color on the pigtail. Typically, the green conductor on the pigtail will attach to a green screw mounted to the sheet metal frame of the dryer.

Once you’ve verified the proper connections, test the voltage of the wall outlet. this is easy to do and will rule out the possibility of a circuit issue.

• Black to Red: +/-240 volts
• Black to White: +/-120 volts
• Black to Green: +/-120 volts
• Red to White: +/-120 volts
• Red to Green: +/-120 volts
• White to Green: 0 volts

Ideally, voltage readings should fall within 10% below, and 5% above the numbers above. In other words, between 218 and 252 volts , or between 109 and 126 volts .

If your voltages are within range, great. Even if they’re slightly outside the range, it’s still okay. Your tripping problem lies elsewhere.

Drive Motor

If the drive motor has failed it will short out internally. This can cause the dryer to trip the circuit breaker.

Like other parts, you’ll want to use a

If the windings are shorted out, you’ll need to replace motor. See the video below for tips on testing and replacement.

Dryer Keeps Tripping Breaker after 10 Minutes

Weak circuit breaker.

In many instances, this is caused by a weak breaker. Your breaker should have an amp rating of 30, but your dryer likely only draws a maximum of 21 amps. To test the load draw of your dryer, you’ll use a clamp or fork-style amperage meter around the wire (while the dryer is running).

This will require removing the electrical panel cover or the dryer terminal cover. This test is done while the circuit is live, so be sure you are competent with basic electrical knowledge before attempting.

If you measure less than 30 amps, yet the breaker trips, the breaker is weak or defective and needs to be replaced. If the amp draw goes above 30 before the breaker trips, the problem is at the dryer, and the breaker is fine.

Heating Element Check

A second problem might be with the heating element if your dryer trips after 10 minutes of operation. This is different from the short-circuited element discussed above.

In this case, it is not due to direct contact between energized and grounded parts of the system. Rather, there is an improper resistance present that is causing the delayed breaker trip.

To test the heating element, remove both lines so that it has no reference to any part of the circuit. Using an ohm meter, check the resistance reading.

This number should fall between 7.8 to 11.8 ohms of resistance.

If the reading isn’t between these numbers, you might have a faulty heating element. If this is the case, replacing it should resolve the problem.

Too large of Laundry Load (Dryer Keeps Tripping Breaker)

Usually, if you overload your dryer with too much clothing (or blankets, or curtains, or… ), the built-in overheat protection device will shut your dryer off before it trips your breaker. However, if that overheat sensor fails to work properly, the dryer could potentially overheat and trip the breaker.

This is rare and I have never personally witnessed such an occurrence. But it is worth noting, just in case you happen to relate to that statistic.

Read this article on Why A Dryer is Overheating

The above steps should help you figure out why your dryer keeps tripping the breaker. Taking a logical, patient approach will almost always yield favorable results.

Remember to always consult the manual for your specific dryer model. Parts and their locations vary from model to model.

Related: Dryer Moisture sensor Problems

Reader Comments (9)

BOUGHT A BRAND NEW WASHER AND DRYER FOR MY BRANDE NEW HOME GOT IT DELIVERED AND SET UP AND THE DRYER TRIPS MY BREAKER MATTER OF FACT IT TRIPPS INSTANTLY LENNAR HOME IS TRYING TO BLAME CONNS AND I TOLD THEM NO ITS THE LENNAR ELECTICIANS THAT PUT IN A SMALL BREAKER BOX THAT DOESNT HOLD ENOUGHT AMPS FOR A DRYER THEY GIVING ME THE RUN AROUND NOT TRYING TO TAKE THE BLAME BUT LENNAR IS A DAMN LIE NEVER PURCHASE A HOME FROM LENNAR HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE GETTING THE HOME AND STILL AFTER GETTING THE HOME FRUSTATED!!!!!!1

I have a whirlpool and it keeps tripping when I open the door to the dryer.

When you try to open the door? When the dryer is running?

I have a whirlpool electric dryer. Breaker trips after running 5-10 min. It trips on heater leg of 110. Motor will run thru complete cycle with that wire off breaker. Have replaced heating element. Ran several cycles with dryer empty and everything seemed ok. Put in clothes and it tripped breaker after 10 min. Any ideas? Thank you.

Weak breaker

I have a problem of a resin dryer that keeps on striping due overheating while the parameters are still within specifications .

Bought a new Speed Queen washer and dryer GFI seems to trip after dryer cycle. Receptacle worked fine in front loader GE I replaced. Any thoughts

One of the reasons why GFCI tripped is when there is a spark developed in the circuit. Who knows, if it’s relay contacts or motor’s brushes creating a momentary spark. IDK

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Whirlpool Dryer

Repair guides and support for Whirlpool brand dryers.

Rebecca Langley @oillady

Posted: Mar 4, 2016

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New dryer keeps blowing circuit breakers

Why does my brand new Whirlpool dryer (WED49STBW) throw the circuit breaker every time I turned it on. First time I turned it on, I had power but no heat. So I went into the garage and flipped the dryers two circuit breakers on and off. Dryer started running and heating but threw both circuit breakers. What could be the problem?

Is this a good question?

Says add a 30 amp cord on back of dryer and there are two conjoined circuit breakers with 30 on each breaker. Cord is not hot to touch, just tripped breaker after 1 minute of run time. Thank you for your answers.

Mar 4, 2016 by Rebecca Langley

It's a brand new cord bought with the dryer so my assumption it is the correct amps for the dryer. Thanks for your help.

Don't assume. Look at the numbers on the cord and let us know what they are. Do you have a multimeter?

Mar 4, 2016 by mayer

Cord has on it. (UL) E135710-F7 SPOT 4x10AWG 60C 30

Do not own a multimeter.

Show 4 more comments

mayer @mayer

Rep: 686.3k

MacHale Enterprises

Could be several things.

A. The dryer is pulling more amps than the breaker is rated for. (check the numbers on the breakers and the manual for amps pulled. Feel the cord and see if it's getting hot. Remember this uses two breakers as it's 220V.

B. To low a gauge wires going to the outlet wall plug. Possibly old damaged wire.

C. loose wires in the machine.

D. a bad component in the dryer (covered by warranty) but don't call till you narrow it down.

Was this answer helpful?

2 Comments:

1 minute ago by Rebecca Langley Edit Delete

@oillady Rebecca - is there not a thirty amp cord on it now?

Smash 72Cutlass @smash72cutlass

Posted: Nov 8, 2019

Weak breaker the constant tripping and the age of the breaker wear them out over time. Loose connections either on the dryer cord or at the breaker would cause tripping. It’s a good thing there is a problem and the breaker trips. Imagine going out leave your dryer on it doesn’t trip now you have a possible fire. So it’s doing it’s job but could also be tired.

Also check venting a crimped or clogged vent will trip today’s dryer as apposed to older dryers. Avoid extra long flex vent they will trip a safety feature built into newer dryers. Also a good thing lots of house fires caused buy venting

Nov 8, 2019 by Smash 72Cutlass

You may be using the wrong size breaker or the wrong wire size. The normal breaker size should be 30 amp, on a 10 gauge wire, and on a dedicated circuit. see this article for more details https://mariaelectricals.com/30-amp-brea...

Mar 15, 2023 by emmanuel nwankwo

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Dryer Keeps Tripping Breaker: 8 Easy Ways To Fix It Now

Dealing with a dryer that continually trips the circuit breaker can be frustrating and inconvenient . Not only can it be a hassle to keep resetting the breaker, but it can also be a safety hazard.

Luckily, it’s simple to diagnose and solve the problem . In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes of a dryer continually tripping the circuit breaker and provide you with steps to follow to solve the problem.

Whether it’s an overloaded circuit, faulty circuit breaker, or motor and heating element issues, we’ll give you all the information you need to identify the issue , so you’ll be able to fix it fast and get back to using your dryer safely and efficiently.

Why Does Your Dryer Keep Tripping the Breaker?

Table of Contents

Before trying to fix anything, first, take a look at what might be the root of the problem.

1. Overloaded Circuit

One of the causes we see most is very simple – an overloaded circuit. Basically, t his is what happens when too many appliances are connected to the same circuit , and the total current exceeds the circuit’s capacity.

If your dryer is connected to a circuit that’s also powering other high-powered appliances like air conditioners or electric heaters , it could overload the circuit , causing it to trip unexpectedly.

2. Weak Circuit Breaker

You might also just have a faulty breaker, which is another common issue. Circuit breakers, like most electrical units, can wear out over time and may not be able to handle the current load.

If your dryer is constantly tripping the circuit breaker, it could be a sign that the breaker itself needs to be replaced . You would have to contact an electrician to confirm this.

3. Faulty Electrical Wiring

Faulty wiring could also cause your dryer to trip the circuit breaker . Over time, wiring can become damaged, loose, or corroded , which can cause an electrical short circuit.

If you suspect faulty wiring is the cause of your electrical issues , you can inspect the cords, but it’s important to have them checked and repaired by a licensed electrician.

4. Faulty Heating Element or Assembly

The heating element in a dryer is in charge of generating heat to dry your clothes . If your heating element has become damaged or worn, it could cause a short circuit, leading to the breaker tripping.

If you have the right skills and equipment, you can check if the heating element is faulty by using a multimeter to test the element’s resistance . If it has no continuity, it might be time to replace it.

Additionally, if the heating element stops working properly, it could cause the heating element assembly to short out . You can use the same steps with the multimeter to assess whether this is the problem.

5. Drive Motor Issues

The motor in your dryer is responsible for spinning the drum and running the blower . A faulty drive motor could be the cause of the tripping problem.

You can test the motor by unplugging the dryer and manually spinning the drum . If the drum doesn’t spin easily or makes a humming noise, it could indicate that the motor has an issue that needs to be repaired or replaced.

6. Loose Electrical Connections

Over time, the electrical connections in your dryer can loosen, causing resistance and overheating in the wiring . As you might expect, this can cause a power trip and  other long-term issues.

On top of this, loose wires can be a safety hazard , so if you notice any issues, it’s essential to have them resolved by a professional as soon as you can.

How to Fix a Dryer That Keeps Tripping the Breaker

Now that you know the possible causes of your problem, it’s time to diagnose the issue with your dryer and start taking steps to get it back in working order.

1. Check the Circuit Load

The first step you should take when your power keeps tripping is to assess whether the circuit load might be the issue. Try unplugging other appliances or electronics on the same circuit and see if this resolves the problem.

Alternatively, you could have an electrician add a dedicated circuit for your dryer to avoid overloading the circuit.

2. Test the Circuit Breaker

If you suspect that the circuit breaker is faulty, you can test it using a multimeter, assuming you have the right tools available.

Begin by turning off the main power switch and then locating the circuit breaker for your dryer . Use your multimeter to test the voltage across the two terminals of the circuit breaker.

If you don’t get a reading at all or a reading of zero, the circuit breaker is probably faulty and might need replacing. When replacing the circuit breaker, first turn off the main power switch.

Remove the circuit breaker from its panel , and install the new one carefully. Make sure to only do this yourself if you’re confident in your abilities and have some experience.

3. Inspect the Electrical Wiring

Over time, the electrical wiring in your appliance (and your home) can become damaged, leading  to shorts and overloads.

To inspect the electrical components , first disconnect the appliance from the power and remove the access panel to inspect the wiring at the back. Check for any signs of frayed or damaged wiring, loose connections, or even signs of burning or scorching.

Call a professional electrician for repairs or replacements if you notice any of these.

4. Check the Outlet

You might also be experiencing your problem because of a faulty outlet . You can check the outlet by unplugging the dryer and testing the voltage using a multimeter (if you have one).

If the voltage is lower than expected or you don’t get a reading , the outlet may be the problem. You could also check by running your dryer from a different outlet and monitoring whether the problem persists.

You might want to replace the outlet yourself or get in touch with a professional to do it for you safely.

5. Replace the Heating Element

If the heating element in your appliance is faulty, it can cause a short circuit, and many other related problems could follow. You can check for continuity here using a multimeter.

However, if your element has an issue, the only solution is to replace the faulty component . To do so, you’ll need to access it by removing the access panel and carefully replacing the element with a new part.

6. Replace the Motor

If the motor malfunctions, it can cause a circuit trip and other frustrating issues. A broken motor will also need to be replaced.

To replace the motor, you should first unplug the dryer and remove the access panel to access the motor. Disconnect the wiring harness and remove the motor from the dryer, then install a new one and reconnect the harness before replacing the access panel.

Unfortunately, this can be an expensive part to replace, and you might want to weigh up your options before committing to this repair job.

7. Consider a Gas Dryer

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your electric dryer is still tripping the circuit breaker, you may consider switching to a gas dryer. Gas dryers use a different energy source, meaning  they don’t draw as much current as electric dryers.

However, switching to a gas dryer will require professional installation and a gas line connection.

8. Spread Out Your Laundry

Finally, if you’re frequently encountering problems with your dryer tripping the circuit breaker , you might also want to consider spreading your laundry.

Instead of doing multiple loads in one day, try doing fewer loads over a few days of the week. This can help reduce the load on the circuit and prevent the circuit breaker from tripping .

Final Thoughts

If your dryer is continually tripping the circuit breaker, there could be several possible causes, including an overloaded circuit, a damaged heating element, or loose electrical connections.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can  assess, diagnose and hopefully solve the problem with your dryer . Remember to always prioritize safety when dealing with electrical issues and to call a professional electrician if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any of the steps involved in solving the problem.

Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.

Comfort is on the Horizon

Why does my dryer keep tripping the breaker 4 ways to respond.

Does your dryer keep tripping the breaker? It’s a common issue in homes and the solution can be anything from a simple do-it-yourself (DIY) repair to needing to call in a local electrician. We have created an extensive outline of why your dryer keeps tripping the breaker, how to stop it from happening again, and the next steps you need to take.

Table of Contents

Why Do My Circuit Breakers Keep Tripping When the Dryer Is On?

1. check the heating element.

We always like to start with the simplest solution. So, our diagnosis begins by checking the heating element in your dryer. A faulty heating element can cause your dryer to trip the breaker by shorting out its heating housing.

Here is how to check the heating element in your dryer:

• Ensure there is no power going to the dryer.
• Pull it out, remove its panels, and find the heating element. Its location varies based on your dryer’s model. Check your manual to find it easily
• Test the heating element using a multimeter by touching each probe to the terminals inside the heating element connector. It must have continuity to work.

If you test the heating element and the multimeter shows no continuity, you found your problem! If not, try the next step.

2. Look at the Drive Motor

Next, you will want to check for a faulty drive motor. It can short out if it’s not working, making your dryer continuously trip the breaker.

Check your drive motor with these steps:

• With the power turned off, remove the panels on your dryer.
• Locate the drive motor in your dryer.
• Using a multimeter, test it for continuity. This process is the same as we discussed earlier about checking your heating element.

If the dry motor does not have continuity, you’ll need to replace it. If everything still looks good, then we have a couple of other options.

3. Check the Terminal Block

Terminal block failure is less common than issues with your heating element or drive motor, but it’s worth checking if those two components appear to be working normally. If any wires attached to the terminal block become loose, they can short and cause your dryer to trip the breaker.

All you need to do to check your terminal block is inspect the wires for loose connections or arcing. You will likely have to replace your circuit breaker if you don’t find a problem with the terminal block.

Related: What Is the Difference Between Circuit Breakers and Fuses?

4. Replace the Circuit Breaker

If you check the components discussed earlier and are not able to find a reason why your dryer keeps tripping the breaker, your final option is replacing your circuit breaker. Your breakers can wear out over time, causing them to trip repeatedly.

While you can change many parts of your dryer by yourself, replacing a circuit breaker is a job for professional electricians. Installing a new circuit breaker is an extremely dangerous process if you’re not trained in how to do it.

Other Reasons Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

Let’s look at the four most common reasons why your breaker keeps tripping:

Electrical System Has a Short Circuit

One of the common reasons for a circuit breaker that won’t stop tripping is when your electrical system has a short circuit, meaning that a neutral and live wire is touching. This contact isn’t only an annoyance that trips your breaker, it can also cause those wires to overheat, creating a fire risk.

If you smell burning or notice a receptacle is discolored, you might have a short circuit. When you suspect a short circuit is your problem, unplug the appliance in question and have a licensed electrician troubleshoot the issue.

Circuit Is Overloaded

If you overload your electrical system by trying to draw more power than it is rated for, this may be the reason your circuit breakers keep tripping in your home. The breakers in your panel are designed to trip to prevent the wires from getting too hot and starting a fire.

You will notice similar symptoms as a short circuit if your circuit is overloaded, but you will also likely see lights flickering when you power on your appliances. The solution is to find a way to reduce the load on the circuit or have an electrician upgrade the electrical system to better suit your energy needs.

Related: Popular Types of Task Lighting for Homes

Power Surges and Arc Faults

If you experience a power surge or arc fault, the spike in voltage can damage your appliances. This spike can also happen when your power comes back on after an outage.

You can protect your appliances and electronics using surge protectors. Another option is to install a whole-house surge protector so that you no longer have to worry about power surges and arc faults caused by voltage spikes.

Ground Faults and Electrocution Hazards

Ground faults are short circuits that result in the electrical current going uncontrolled, tripping your breaker repeatedly. There is an even bigger problem with ground faults. They pose an electrocution risk.

If you touch an exposed wire, especially in wet or damp conditions, there is a chance of electrocution. You can prevent this hazard by having GFCI outlets that detect subtle changes in power immediately installed to protect you and your family.

Electrical Panel Upgrade and Repair Services

The electrical panel in your home should withstand years of use as long as it’s professionally installed and maintained. If your dryer keeps tripping your breaker, give our team a call at (770) 852-8504 to receive assistance. Our team of local electricians in Athens, GA is available to help you upgrade your electrical panel . We are committed to ensuring you maintain power throughout the winter and summer seasons.

In addition to offering support for damaged electrical panels, our technicians offer other types of electrical services such as lighting installation , ceiling fan replacement, wiring maintenance, and whole-house generator installation. Give us a call or book an appointment online to receive help with a defective electrical panel on your property.

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Why Your Clothes Dryer Keeps Tripping the Breaker

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If your dryer keeps tripping the breaker, it’s important to find out why and fix the problem as soon as possible. It could be a simple issue that’s easy to fix or something more serious. There are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem and get your dryer up and running again.

Why Does a Circuit Breaker Trip?

The purpose of a circuit breaker is to stop the flow of electricity when there is an electrical fault that could cause the circuit to overheat. A circuit breaker will trip to prevent damage to the circuit. The circuit breaker protects the electrical power system in your home and the devices connected to it. The breaker may trip due to overloads, short circuits, or ground fault surges.

Why Does My Dryer Keep Tripping the Breaker?

A dryer that repeatedly trips the breaker is a definitive sign of an issue with the dryer or electrical components in your house. Dryers use about 2,000 to 6,000 watts of electricity. Depending on the brand and whether or not it is Energy Star certified will change the amount of electricity it uses.

If your breaker is constantly being tripped, it’s time to take a closer look at your dryer.

Bad Drive Motor

The drive motor is responsible for turning the drum while the appliance is running. If the motor fails, it short out internally, causing the breaker to trip. You can test the drive motor using a multimeter.

Faulty Start Switch

Another reason your dryer may trip the breaker is because of a faulty start switch. The start switch initiates the flow of electricity to the dryer motor. If it is not working correctly, it can cause the breaker to trip. You can test the start switch with a multimeter to see if it is receiving power. If not, you will need to replace it.

Loose Wires in Terminal Block

If there are loose wires in the terminal block, they can arc and damage part of the terminal block. If part of the terminal block is destroyed, the wires can short out against the dryer and cause it to trip the breaker.

Bad Dryer Thermostat

A bad dryer thermostat can also trip the breaker. The thermostat regulates the dryer temperature by turning the heat on and off. If it is not working correctly, it can cause the breaker to trip. You can test the thermostat with a multimeter to see if it is receiving power. If not, you will need to replace it.

Faulty Heating Element

The heating element is responsible for heating the air that circulates through the drum; this function is necessary to dry your clothes. If the heating element fails, it can short out against the heater housing, which can cause your breaker to trip. You can test the heating element using a multimeter.

Weak Circuit Breaker

Over time, circuit breakers can wear out and lose the ability to handle the same electrical load as they once did. Typically, a dryer requires a 30-amp circuit breaker. You can test your breaker by performing a test with an amperage meter while your dryer is running. The meter should not be below 30-amps. If it is, you may need to consult an electrician for a new circuit breaker.

How to Prevent Your Dryer From Tripping the Breaker

You can do a few things to prevent your breaker from tripping in the future.

• Properly ventilate your dryer. A dryer that is not venting properly can overheat and trip the breaker.
• Clean the lint screen after every load of laundry. A clogged lint filter can cause your dryer to overheat and trip the breaker.
• Inspect your dryer vent for any blockages. A blocked dryer vent can cause your dryer to overheat and trip the breaker. Depending on use, you should clean your dryer vent once or twice a year.
• Do not overload your dryer. Overloading your dryer can cause it to overheat and trip the breaker.

By following these tips, you can help prevent your breaker from tripping in the future. But if you’re continuously having issues with the performance of your dryer, reach out to the professionals at Service Care .

Toxey McDavid

Owner, Service Care

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Dryer Keeps Tripping Breaker? Here’s What to Do

If your dryer keeps tripping the circuit breaker, you are in the right place. In this article, we will cover all of the main reasons why this could be happening and what you can do to fix them.

Simply start from the beginning and work your way through each of the possible causes. Hopefully, by the end of this article, your dryer will be working properly!

Check the Heating Element

The best place to start is to check the heating element. The heating element works to heat the air that distributes around your dryer. When the heating element is faulty, it can short out the heating housing, which then causes the dryer to trip the circuit breaker.

To check the heating element, you need to:

• Turn the power off to the dryer.
• Pull the dryer out from the wall or its cabinet so you can work on it.
• Remove the panels on the dryer.
• Locate the heating element (check your manual if necessary).
• Once located, use a multimeter to test each of the terminals on the heating element. The terminals need to have continuity to the case.
• If the heating element has continuity to the case, this means it is defective and will need to be replaced.
• Once replaced, you need to put your dryer back together and then check if the problem has been solved. If the heating element passes the continuity test, you can move on to checking the next component.

Check the Heating Element Assembly

Another possible cause of your dryer tripping out is a faulty heating element assembly. Sometimes when the heating element fails, it can short out the heating housing, which then causes the dryer to trip out the circuit breaker. When this happens, your dryer won’t work properly.

Here’s how to check the heating element assembly:

• Make sure the power is still turned off to the dryer.
• If you haven’t already, pull the dryer out from the wall, and remove the panels.
• Locate the heating element assembly (check your manual if necessary).
• You can then test if the heating element assembly is faulty by using a multimeter to test each of the terminals on the heating element assembly for continuity.
• If the heating element assembly has continuity to the case, this means it is defective and will need to be replaced.
• Once replaced, you need to put your dryer back together and then check if the problem has been solved. If the heating element assembly is fine, you can move on to checking the next possible cause.

Check the Drive Motor

The next possible cause of the problem is a faulty drive motor. When the drive motor doesn’t work properly, it may short out internally, and this makes the dryer trip the circuit breaker repeatedly.

Here’s how to check the drive motor:

• Make sure the power is still switched off to the dryer.
• If you haven’t already, pull the dryer out from the wall, and then remove the panels so you can access the drive motor.
• Locate the drive motor.
• Once located, use a multimeter to test the drive motor for continuity.
• If the test shows that the motor windings are shorted out, you will need to replace the drive motor. However, if the drive motor is fine, you can move on to checking the next possible cause.

Check the Terminal Block

If you have an electric dryer, it will have a series of power cords that are all attached to the terminal block. If any of these wires become loose, they can arc, and this will destroy part of the terminal block. When this happens, one of the wires can short against the body of the dryer and then make the dryer trip the breaker.

It doesn’t happen very often, but if you’ve tried checking the other components above, then you should check the terminal block. To do that:

• Locate the terminal block.
• Check all the wires to see if any are loose. If so, tighten them.
• Check all the wires to see if any look like they are “arcing.” If so, replace them.
• You can then turn your dryer on and see if the problem has been solved. If the dryer still doesn’t work properly, you can move on to checking the next component.

Replace the Circuit Breaker

If you have checked all of the other components above and your dryer still doesn’t work, your last option is to replace the circuit breaker. Like any other electrical component, over time circuit breakers can become worn out, and this makes them weak. When they become weak, they may trip repeatedly and will need to be replaced. Replacing a circuit breaker should only be carried out by a qualified technician, as it is a dangerous repair to make if you don’t have the proper training.

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Why Does My Tumble Dryer Keep Tripping The Electrics?

Does your tumble dryer keep tripping the electrics? We discover why and how you can fix it.

Tumble dryers involve electrical and mechanical components; after a few years of use, they might show signs of wear and tear. 

A fault you might encounter is a tumble dryer that keeps tripping the electrics. For example, you might plug the dryer in and your home’s circuit breaker kicks in, or the machine may trip internally. Another possibility is that the dryer keeps blowing fuses in the plug or extension cable. 

‍ Firstly, you should treat any electrical fault in a dryer seriously. 

Never fiddle with electrical components when the dryer is plugged in. Water and electricity do not mix, which compounds safety issues if your dryer is wet or damp in any way. 

Here’s what to do if your tumble dryer keeps tripping the electrics. 

Dryer trips when plugged in

If your dryer trips a circuit breaker, either a mains breaker or another breaker near the mains breaker, then there’s probably an electrical short somewhere in: 

• The cable or plug
• The heating element
• The interference suppressor 
• The main drum motor or fan motor 
• The control panel 
• The motor starter capacitor 
• An issue with the wiring, e.g. the wires are worn or melted 

As you might imagine, testing all of these components is pretty tricky. You’ll need to systematically work through them using a multimeter to test the resistance across the components. 

To add insult to injury, damage to one component can quickly inflict damage on another.

One of the prime culprits is the mains filter, also called the interference suppressor. This is designed to prevent the machine’s motor from interfering with other electrical components. 

These can bulge or short out from moisture, particularly if the dryer is fitted in a damp utility room or similar.

Replacing the mains filter is reasonably simple but requires disassembly. It should be easy to access the mains filter, so you can visually expect it for any damage or burn marks. If it looks good, it’s probably not the source of the issue. Never fiddle with electrical components without unplugging the machine from the mains. 

Dryer trips when powered on

This is a similar situation to the above. When you plug in your dryer and switch it on, it immediately trips. The dryer may switch itself off, blow a fuse in the plug, or trip one of your home’s breakers. 

Again, this is the sign of a serious electrical fault, so you should take every precaution you can. Never fiddle with electrical components or wires if the machine is plugged into the mains. 

A common source of this issue is the tumble dryer heating element . If the heating element is faulty, it will likely trip the internal thermal overload cut-out (TOC), which will trip the unit. However, this shouldn’t trip your main breakers, unless the TOC is also faulty. As mentioned, a fault in one component can lead to a fault in the other, so don’t rule out the possibility of multiple components failing!

This can be diagnosed with a multimeter - you’ll need to measure the resistance (in ohms) across the heating element. You can also check the thermal overload for visible damage. Only attempt if you have electrical experience. Otherwise, call an electrician or repairer. 

Check the following: 

• First, check the cable for damage. If the fuse has blown, replace it and see if the issue happens again. In addition, check the mains plug to ensure it works correctly with another device. 
• If your dryer is plugged into an extension lead with other heavy-duty electrical appliances, remove it and plug it directly into the mains. Tumble dryers should be connected to their own mains socket, not an extension lead. 
• If that fails to fix the issue, you’re probably looking at an internal electrical fault. Any number of components could be damaged, and you’ll need to check them methodically. Time to call a repairer or electrician! 

Dryer trips when drying starts

You switch your dryer on, it starts working and then it cuts out. This is different from the above, as it shows that most of the dryer’s electricals are working correctly for a while before shutting off. 

Firstly, diagnose whether the dryer has actually tripped or whether it’s just shut itself off automatically. Modern dryers shut off if they overheat or detect some other fault, like a clogged vent or drain. Damage to the motor can also trigger the internal shut-off. 

If you have a modern dryer, check the panel for error codes and consult the manual. These should help you diagnose the fault. 

Clean the filter

Firstly, check the filter and give it a good clean. Fluff and lint will clog the filter and cause various issues with your dryer, including forcing it to shut down. Some dryers tell you when to clean the filter. 

Clean the vent

If you have a vented dryer, check the vent for debris and fluff. If they become too clogged, the dryer will fail to work properly or shut down. 

Empty/clear the drainage 

Condensing dryers have reservoirs or drainage systems. Empty and clean the reservoir and check the drainage system. Occasionally, the drainage pump will stop working properly or labour, meaning the machine can’t properly drain water. Check the pump for visible obstructions or faults.

Issues with the heating element, thermostat, mains filter or condensing sensors

If the above fails to solve the issue, there’s probably an internal fault. Modern dryers contain numerous electrical components, and most could cause the dryer to trip or shut off if they’re damaged. 

You’ll need to test each component individually with a multimeter to find the culprit. Only attempt this if you have electrical experience. 

Otherwise, it’s wise to call us to take a look. 

Luckily, most of the common causes of electrical issues in dryers are relatively easy to fix. The cost of repairing the fault is often cheaper than replacing the entire unit! If you need some peace of mind, take a look at our kitchen appliance cover.

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Dryer tripping breaker

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What to Do if Your Microwave Keeps Tripping the Breaker

Is your microwave constantly tripping the breaker? Learn the common causes and step-by-step troubleshooting tips to safely fix this issue. Protect your home from electrical hazards and get your microwave working again!

Common Causes

Troubleshooting steps, 1. identify the affected circuit, 2. reset the breaker, 3. identify a different circuit for testing, 4. test the microwave.

A microwave that consistently trips the circuit breaker in your electrical panel is more than just a minor inconvenience-it's a red flag signaling potential electrical hazards lurking within your home. Ignoring this issue can lead to serious consequences, from appliance damage and electrical fires to potential electrocution. Underlying electrical problems, such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, demand immediate attention to safeguard your home and family.

This guide will help you diagnose why your microwave keeps tripping the breaker. We'll cover common problems, offer step-by-step troubleshooting instructions, and provide essential safety precautions to make sure your electrical system remains safe and functional. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer professional help, this article will empower you to address this issue effectively and confidently.

Safety First

Electrical repairs can be dangerous. Always turn off the power at the breaker before working on any electrical components. Don't attempt DIY electrical repairs unless you're qualified. If in doubt, hire a licensed electrician.

Before troubleshooting, let's look at the typical reasons a microwave trips the breaker. Understanding these will help you narrow down the problem and find the most likely solution.

• Overloaded circuit. Plugging too many power-hungry appliances into the same circuit can overwhelm its capacity, causing the breaker to trip as a safety measure.
• Faulty microwave. A malfunctioning microwave with internal issues like a short circuit or worn-out components can draw excessive power and trigger the breaker.
• Wiring issues. Outdated or damaged wiring in your walls or the microwave's power cord can create electrical faults that lead to breaker trips.
• Breaker problems. A worn-out or defective breaker might trip even with a normal electrical load, and will need to be replaced.

Now, let's figure out which of these issues is causing the problem.

Identifying the specific cause requires a systematic approach. Here's a step-by-step guide:

First locate the tripped breaker. Open your electrical panel and look for a breaker that's in the "Off" position or in a middle position between "On" and "Off." Some breakers may also have a red or orange indicator light to signal that they've tripped.

Once you've identified the tripped breaker, switch it fully to the "Off" position, then firmly flip it back to the "On" position. If the breaker trips again when you try using your microwave, it indicates a problem with either the microwave, the circuit's wiring, or an overloaded circuit. This is a potential safety hazard-stop using the appliance until the issue is fixed. Proceed to the next troubleshooting steps or consult a licensed electrician for assistance.

If a microwave is built-in, you'll need to use a heavy-duty extension cord to test it by plugging it into a working receptacle. If it isn't built-in, you can move the whole microwave to another working receptacle, and you won't need a heavy-duty extension cord.

Find an outlet that still has power even when the microwave's breaker has tripped. This means that it's on a different circuit. Make sure that the new outlet is on a circuit that can handle the microwave's amperage. You can usually find this information in your electrical panel or on the appliance itself. If unsure, consult an electrician.

Pro Tip: A typical microwave (700 to 1200 watts) usually needs a 15 or 20 amp breaker because most draw 6 to 10 amps. However, check your microwave's specific amperage requirements -some may need a dedicated 20-amp circuit. You can usually find this on a label on the back or inside the door of the microwave, or in the owner's manual.

Plug the microwave into the new working outlet and try using it.

If the breaker on this circuit doesn't trip, the problem is likely with the original circuit, its wiring, or-more likely-the circuit is overloaded. Identify other appliances connected to the same circuit as the microwave-especially heating appliances like coffee makers and toasters. Unplug some to reduce the load and see if the breaker still trips when using the microwave.

If the breaker trips even on a different circuit, the problem is likely with the microwave itself. Unplug the microwave and carefully check the power cord for damage, fraying, or exposed wires. If you find any damage, replace the power cord or have it repaired by a qualified appliance repair person. If the problem isn't the cord, ask an appliance repair person if it's worth fixing the microwave or if you should replace it.

By following these steps, you can systematically eliminate potential causes and find the root of the problem. Remember, safety is paramount when dealing with electrical issues. If you're unsure about any step or encounter complex wiring problems, consult a licensed electrician.

The post What to Do if Your Microwave Keeps Tripping the Breaker appeared first on HomeTips .