Molly Ayala
Irons can trip the electrics for a variety of reasons. A common cause is a faulty iron, which can be due to a damaged flex, a short circuit, or a leak in the water tank. Other potential causes include an overloaded circuit, with many electronics drawing power from the same source, or a weak circuit breaker that needs to be replaced. In some cases, the issue may be resolved by cleaning or repairing the iron, but often the most practical solution is to replace the iron with a new one.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Circuit overloaded | Yes |
| Faulty appliance | Yes |
| Water tank leaking into the wiring | Yes |
| Damaged flex | Yes |
| Short circuit | Yes |
| Old appliances | Yes |
| Excessive earth leakage current | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
A faulty iron could be the culprit
If your iron is tripping the electricity, a faulty iron could be the culprit. This could be due to a number of reasons:
Firstly, it could be due to a faulty heating element. The heating element in irons can fail over time, causing a current to leak to earth and trip the Residual Current Device (RCD) protecting the socket circuit. This is a safety feature designed to prevent electrical faults and fires. A faulty heating element is a common issue with irons, and it is often not worth repairing, especially if the iron is older or has sustained other damage.
Secondly, water damage may be causing the electrical fault. Irons, especially steam irons, can develop leaks in the water tank, which can lead to water entering the wiring and causing a short circuit. This can be dangerous and may lead to electrocution or electrical fires. If you suspect water damage, it is important to unplug the iron and have it repaired or replaced.
In some cases, the issue may be as simple as a loose screw in the plug, which can be easily tightened. Additionally, the electrical connectors may have become damp, causing the circuit to trip. Cleaning and drying these connectors may resolve the issue.
If your iron is tripping the electricity, it is important to act promptly to ensure your safety. You can try some basic troubleshooting steps, such as checking for water leaks, inspecting the wiring and plug for damage, and ensuring that the connectors are dry. If the issue persists, it is best to stop using the iron and consult an electrician or a professional repair service.
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The circuit may be overloaded
If your iron is tripping the electric circuit, it may be because the circuit is overloaded. This could be due to a combination of factors, including the use of multiple high-consumption electrical appliances simultaneously. For example, if you have the TV, microwave, and other electronics plugged into the same circuit as your iron, the circuit may be overloaded.
To prevent overloading, it is recommended to unplug some of the other high-consumption electrical items before ironing your clothes. You can also try plugging your iron into a different socket or circuit to see if the issue persists. If the iron continues to trip the circuit, there may be another issue with the appliance or the electrical system.
Additionally, old appliances can become less efficient with age and more prone to overloading a circuit. If you have an older iron, it may be worth considering a replacement. However, before replacing any appliances, it is advisable to consult with a qualified electrician to ensure the issue is accurately diagnosed and addressed.
It is also important to note that using extension cords can contribute to overloading a circuit. While extension cords can be convenient, they increase overall electricity usage. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the number of extension cords used in your home to reduce the risk of overloading electrical circuits.
By being mindful of the number of appliances plugged into the same circuit and avoiding excessive use of extension cords, you can help prevent circuit overloads and ensure the safe and efficient operation of your electrical appliances, including your iron.
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A damaged flex or plug could be the issue
A damaged flex or plug on your iron can be a potential fire hazard and could be the reason your iron is tripping the electricity. Over time, the flex, which is the flexible electrical cord that connects the iron to the power supply, can become damaged or frayed, especially if it has been bent or twisted excessively. Similarly, the plug that connects the flex to the power outlet can also become loose or damaged. If you notice any signs of damage to the flex or plug, it is important to replace them immediately. A damaged flex can expose the inner wires, increasing the risk of electric shock or short circuits. In addition, a loose connection between the plug and the outlet can generate heat, leading to a potential fire hazard.
To prevent these issues and ensure your safety, inspect the flex and plug regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Replace the flex if you notice any cracks, exposed wires, or extensive wear. Also, ensure that the plug is securely connected to the outlet and that there are no loose connections. If you are unsure about replacing the flex or plug yourself, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified electrician. They can help you choose the correct replacement parts and ensure a safe and proper installation.
Another potential issue that could be tripping your electricity is a damaged or faulty iron plate. The heating plate of your iron should be smooth and free of any cracks or chips. Over time, the plate can become damaged due to regular use, or it may develop manufacturing defects. A faulty iron plate can cause electrical arcing, which occurs when electricity jumps across a gap in the circuit. This arcing can trip your electricity and potentially start a fire. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect the iron plate for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary.
Additionally, issues with the internal wiring of the iron can also cause electrical tripping. If you drop your iron or subject it to rough handling, the internal wiring may become loose or damaged. This can lead to short circuits or exposed wires, increasing the risk of electric shock or fire. In such cases, it is best to consult a professional repair service or consider replacing the iron altogether. It is always better to be cautious when dealing with electrical appliances to ensure your safety and prevent potential hazards.
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Water tank leaks can cause this issue
Water leaks are a common cause of electrical issues and can cause circuitry to trip. Even a small water leak through roof tiling or poorly sealed windows can let enough damp into your house to cause electrical problems. Water leaking into ceiling spaces is very common, and the resulting moisture can cause regular electrical tripping, as well as wiring erosion and damage over time.
Toilets, showers, and baths are the most common sources of household leaks, with toilets being the largest proportion. Water heaters can also be the culprit of water leaks, with hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium forming a thick layer of sediment inside the heater, causing it to work harder and trip the breaker. A damaged heating element, thermostat, or water heater can also cause a tripped breaker.
In the case of an iron, a water tank leak can cause electrical connectors to become damp, leading to circuitry tripping. This can be fixed by cleaning out the iron and ensuring the water tank is not leaking. If the connectors and cables are very wet, it is likely a water tank leak, and you may need to purchase a spare tank.
It is important to address water leaks as soon as possible to prevent long-term water damage and costly rewiring demands. A qualified electrician should be consulted to check for any potential electrical issues and to ensure the safety of the household.
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The iron might be overheating
If your iron is tripping the electricity, it could be due to the iron overheating. This is often caused by a faulty heating element, which can lead to a current leaking to earth and tripping the Residual Current Device (RCD) protecting the socket circuit. The heating element in your iron may be failing if the iron is old or has not been used for a long time.
A faulty heating element can cause the insulation in the iron to break down, allowing the current to leak. This can happen if the iron is not used frequently, as the insulation can dry out and crack. It can also occur if the iron is overloaded or used for extended periods, causing the insulation to break down due to excessive heat.
If your iron has a faulty heating element, you may notice that it is not generating steam properly, or there may be a rhythmic clicking sound coming from the steam chest. In some cases, the iron may cut off the electricity in the house when it is switched on. This is a safety feature to prevent the iron from overheating and causing a fire.
If you suspect that your iron's heating element is failing, it is important to unplug the iron and stop using it immediately. You can then choose to replace the iron or attempt to repair it. Replacing the iron is often the most convenient and cost-effective option, as repairing a faulty heating element can be difficult and expensive.
To prevent your iron from overheating in the future, it is important to use it regularly and not overload it. Make sure to set the temperature appropriately for the fabric you are ironing and avoid leaving the iron on for extended periods. Additionally, consider investing in a higher-quality iron with a full warranty to ensure it is less likely to malfunction.
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Frequently asked questions
This could be due to a faulty iron. The most common fault with devices that have a heating element is the failure of that element, leading to a current leaking to earth and tripping the protecting RCD.
You should stop using the iron immediately and get it repaired or replaced. You can take it to your local appliance repair shop to have a look at it.
Check the iron for damage to the cable, body, and plug connections. You can also try plugging it into a different socket to see if it trips the electricity there as well.
