First, the safe way to find the culprit
- Unplug everything on the circuit that tripped, or switch it off at the wall.
- Reset the safety switch.
- Plug things back in one at a time, waiting a minute between each.
- If it trips when one appliance goes back in, that appliance is the likely problem. Leave it unplugged and have it checked or replaced.
Common causes
- A faulty appliance: kettles, toasters, old fridges, heaters and pool equipment are frequent offenders.
- Water: outdoor power points, garden lights and exhaust fans can let moisture in after heavy rain.
- Damaged wiring: a nail or screw through a cable, or rodents in the roof.
- Too much connected to one safety switch: small leakage from many appliances can add up.
When it's not an appliance
If the switch trips with everything unplugged, or won't reset at all, the fault is in the fixed wiring. That's a job for a licensed electrician. Don't keep resetting it, and never bridge or disable a safety switch.
Trips after rain?
This is very common on the coast. Outdoor power points, lights and junction boxes take a beating from wind-driven rain and salt air. We find and replace the failed fitting, and use properly weather-rated gear so it doesn't happen again.
Test your safety switches
Press the test button on each safety switch every few months. It should trip straight away. If it doesn't, call us: a safety switch that won't trip won't protect anyone.
Need an electrician in Wollongong, the Illawarra or Shoalhaven? Get a free, fixed-price quote or call Jade on 0402 273 820.
