Help – Washer Dryer Keeps Tripping Electrics

If your washer dryer keeps tripping the electrics, turn the power off immediately.  Not only could the tripping damage the washer dryer, but it could also disrupt the overall power supply at your home and become a fire hazard.

Here is a list of common causes for your washer dryer to malfunction and cause the electricity to trip:

• Electrical plug / Power cable malfunction: If the plug is hot, there is probably a loose wire in the plug. Also, with the appliance unplugged and without touching the plug too much, look out for any cracks in the plastic of the plug itself, as the wires may be exposed to water and short circuit. A burnt out wire in the washer dryer could also cause the circuit to overheat and the electricity to trip. If you are using an extension cord, that could also cause the problem. Change the extension and see if the washer dryer works now. If the fault continues, call an electrician. If the electrician confirms that there is no fault with the wiring, it means there is something wrong with the machine and you need to call the appliance engineer.

• Heating element of the washer dryer:  The sticky residue from detergents and clothes washed and dried in the machine can gather on the heating element, causing it to malfunction. Clean the filter thoroughly and give the machine a maintenance wash, before trying a complete wash dry cycle. It is also possible that either the element of the washer or the dryer has burnt out. You will need an experienced appliance engineer to handle this problem.

• Overheating of the drum: If the condenser unit, located at the back of the drum, does not work properly, it can cause the drum to overheat and the thermostat to cut out.  Check for any fluff blockages in the fan chamber, but do not attempt to dismantle the machine at all yourself – wait for an appliance engineer to use the correct equipment.

• Internal water leakage: A water leakage in one of the electricity compartments can also cause a short. This needs to be looked at by an appliance engineer.

• Problem with the motor: If the electricity is tripping, there could be a problem with the washer dryer motor. Again, call your appliance engineer. 

Please remember:

Appliances should be serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions – found in the product manual. If you have a problem with an appliance, call in a NICEIC or Gas-Safe registered appliance engineer to repair your appliance. Don’t forget that if your appliance is not working optimally, you should also have it serviced to prevent causing damage to the appliance.