Is your electric oven making you lose your power? uncover the root cause of breaker tripping
What To Know
- The oven is usually connected to a dedicated circuit, but if other appliances or electronics are plugged into the same circuit, the combined load can exceed the breaker’s capacity, resulting in a trip.
- A malfunctioning oven element, such as a burned-out heating coil or a short circuit, can draw excessive current, causing the breaker to trip.
- If the oven is not properly ventilated, it can overheat and cause the thermal cut-off switch to activate, which trips the breaker as a safety measure.
Electric ovens consume a significant amount of electricity, which can overload the circuit if not properly managed. When the current flowing through the circuit exceeds the capacity of the breaker, it trips to prevent damage to the wiring and appliances. Several factors can contribute to this electrical overload, leading to the dreaded breaker trip.
Common Causes of Breaker Tripping
1. Overloaded Circuit
The oven is usually connected to a dedicated circuit, but if other appliances or electronics are plugged into the same circuit, the combined load can exceed the breaker’s capacity, resulting in a trip.
2. Faulty Oven Element
A malfunctioning oven element, such as a burned-out heating coil or a short circuit, can draw excessive current, causing the breaker to trip.
3. Wiring Issues
Loose or damaged wiring in the oven or the circuit can create a high resistance path, leading to excessive current flow and breaker tripping.
4. Overheating Oven
If the oven is not properly ventilated, it can overheat and cause the thermal cut-off switch to activate, which trips the breaker as a safety measure.
5. Malfunctioning Temperature Sensor
A faulty temperature sensor can send incorrect signals to the oven’s control board, causing the heating elements to stay on for extended periods, leading to overheating and breaker tripping.
6. Faulty Breaker
In some cases, the breaker itself may be faulty and trip prematurely, even when the electrical load is within its capacity.
7. High Voltage Fluctuations
Sudden voltage spikes or drops in the electrical supply can cause the breaker to trip to protect the oven and other appliances.
Troubleshooting and Resolution
1. Check for Overloaded Circuit
Unplug any additional appliances or electronics from the circuit that the oven is connected to.
2. Inspect Oven Elements
Visually inspect the oven elements for any signs of damage, such as burned coils or loose connections. If you find any abnormalities, replace the affected element.
3. Examine Wiring
Check for any loose or exposed wires in the oven and the circuit. Tighten any loose connections and replace damaged wires as needed.
4. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Make sure the oven is properly ventilated by cleaning the exhaust fan and ensuring there are no obstructions around the oven’s vents.
5. Test Temperature Sensor
Use a multimeter to test the temperature sensor. If the sensor is faulty, replace it.
6. Replace Faulty Breaker
If you suspect the breaker is malfunctioning, contact a qualified electrician to inspect and replace it if necessary.
7. Contact a Professional
If you are unable to identify and resolve the issue yourself, it is advisable to contact a qualified electrician for professional diagnosis and repair.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I reset the breaker myself?
Yes, you can usually reset the breaker by flipping the switch back to the “on” position. However, if the breaker trips again, it indicates an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
2. Is it safe to use the oven if the breaker keeps tripping?
No, it is not safe to use the oven if the breaker keeps tripping, as it could pose a fire hazard.
3. Can I use a higher-rated breaker?
No, using a higher-rated breaker is not recommended, as it could overload the wiring and create a safety hazard.