Washing machine trips the breaker or RCD: causes and what to do
If a washing machine trips the breaker or the RCD, there is usually earth leakage or a short circuit somewhere. Bosch lists the possible causes — the motor, the heater, the suppressor, a wire shorting out or water leaking onto an electrical part — and warns that it can be difficult to tell which one is responsible without professional help.
Some causes you can check yourself: the extension lead, the socket and an overloaded circuit. But if the machine gives you a shock or there is water under it, switch the circuit off at the consumer unit first.
Likely causes
- earth leakage or a short circuit — Electrolux says this is the usual cause when the protection trips as the machine is switched on or off;
- a faulty heater, motor or suppressor, or a wire shorting out (Bosch);
- water on the electrical parts — for example from a leak inside the machine (Bosch);
- the machine is connected through an extension lead or adapter — Electrolux warns this may cause a short circuit or a fire;
- a tumble dryer or other powerful appliances run on the same circuit as the washer — Electrolux advises against connecting a washer and a dryer to the same circuit;
- an incorrect connection or a faulty socket (Electrolux suggests trying the machine in another socket).
Safe steps you can try
- If there is water under the machine or it smells of burning, do not touch it: switch the circuit off at the consumer unit first, then unplug it.
- Unplug the machine and reset the breaker or RCD — the first step Bosch recommends.
- If the machine is connected through an extension lead or adapter, plug it straight into the wall socket — Electrolux advises against extension leads.
- Check that no tumble dryer, water heater, oven or other powerful appliance is running on the same circuit (Electrolux).
- Plug the machine into another socket — as Electrolux suggests. If it works there, the problem is in the socket or the home's wiring.
- Note when the protection trips: as soon as you plug in, when the programme starts, while the water heats or on spin. This helps the technician find the faulty part faster.
- If it trips again, do not switch the machine on again and call a technician.
When to call a technician
Call a technician if the breaker or RCD still trips after these checks, the machine gives you a shock, or it will not switch on after tripping. Bosch states plainly that this needs inspection and repair by a trained engineer: the technician will measure the insulation resistance of the heater, the motor and the wiring, find the leak and replace the faulty part.
A MasService technician names the price before starting the repair.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep using the machine if the RCD trips only now and then?
No. An RCD trips when current flows where it should not — for example to the casing. It is a safety issue: until the cause is found, it is better not to switch the machine on.
Why does it trip the RCD only when heating water?
The heater is powered only while heating, so leakage through it shows up exactly then. Bosch lists the heater among the possible causes. A technician can pinpoint the part by measuring insulation resistance.
Can I plug a washing machine into an extension lead?
Electrolux advises against it: an extension lead may cause a short circuit or a fire. Plug the machine straight into an earthed socket — Samsung also requires a well-grounded outlet.
Other faults
Washing machine repair — Brands
Could not fix it yourself? A technician comes to your home in Baku, finds the cause on site and names the price before the repair: Washing machine repair