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Are you dealing with a blown fuse on an electrical circuit again and again? It's a hassle, but it's actually a sign that your fuse is doing its job; tripping the power flow to protect your home from damage caused by excess current. But what could be causing this constant fuse blowing?
In this quick how-to guide, we will give you insight into five of the most common triggers of repeated fuse issues — faulty appliances, short circuit faults, and circuit overloading — along with tips on how to fix them.
1. Overloading the circuit
One of the leading factors that could cause a blown fuse is overloading the circuit. This happens when you plug too many appliances or devices into a single circuit. The circuit cannot handle the load, and the fuse blows. The best way to tackle this problem is to unplug some of the devices to reduce the load on the circuit. If this doesn't work, you might need to consider an upgrade of the circuit or the fuse box.
2. Short Circuit
A short circuit occurs when a wire or a conductor comes into contact with another wire, creating an electrical bypass. This bypass causes a massive amount of electrical current to flow through the circuit, leading to a blown fuse. If you notice a burning smell in your home or office, immediately turn off the power, locate the source of the problem, and get in touch with a qualified electrician.
3. Circuit Breaker Malfunction
Sometimes, a blown fuse could be as a result of a circuit breaker malfunction. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home or office from electrical surges or sudden voltage changes. When this happens, the circuit breaker trips, preventing further damage. If you notice that your circuit breakers keep tripping, it's a clear sign that there's a problem that needs to be fixed.
4. Damaged Extension Cords
Extension cords are used for extending the reach of electrical outlets. However, if these cords are damaged, they could cause a short circuit, leading to a blown fuse. Carefully inspect your extension cords for any visible signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, splits, or exposed wires.
5. Old Wiring
Finally, old, outdated wiring could be the cause of your blown fuses. If you notice that your home or office is frequently experiencing power outages or blown fuses, it might be time to replace your wiring. Not only will this prevent future blown fuses, but it will also improve the overall safety of your home or office.
In conclusion, the five causes mentioned above are the most common reasons for blown fuses. If you're experiencing frequent blown fuses, it's best to leave the repairs to a professional electrician. Attempting to fix the problem yourself could put you at risk of electrical shock, or even worse, cause farther damage to your home or office. Remember to always prioritise your safety and trust the services of a qualified and experienced electrician like Great Park Electrical.