Have you been in the middle of drying a load of laundry only to have your dryer trip the breaker? Or you’ve noticed that your dryer breaker keeps tripping every time you try to use it?
A malfunctioning dryer must be looked into but it can also be a safety hazard if left unchecked. Why does your dryer keep tripping the breaker? We’ll go over the various reasons why your dryer may be causing electrical issues and what you can do to fix it.
HINT: Always check the breaker or breakers for your dryer. Most electric dryers are 240 volts. This means that there are usually 2 breakers for your dryer. If the dryer is not getting HOT this could mean the dryer still runs but the heating element is not heating because it is not getting power. So on most dryers, always be aware there is most likely 2 breakers that supply power to your dryer. Check both of them!
Understanding your dryer’s electrical
It’s important to understand your dryer’s electrical needs. A dryer typically requires a 240 volt circuit, which means it needs two hot wires and a neutral wire. The two hot wires deliver power to the heating element while the neutral wire completes the circuit.
If any of these wires are damaged or you have loose wires, it can cause electrical issues and potentially trip the breaker. It’s also important to note that a dryer should never be plugged into an outlet that is not rated for a 240 volt appliance.
Common reasons for a dryer tripping the breaker
Now that we have a basic understanding of your dryer’s electrical needs, let’s check the common reasons why your dryer may be tripping the breaker.
Overloaded electrical circuit
One of the most common reasons why a dryer may trip the breaker is due to an overloaded circuit. If you have multiple appliances or electronics running on the same circuit as your dryer, it can cause the circuit to become overloaded and trip the breaker.
This is especially common in older homes where the electrical system may not be equipped to handle the demands of modern appliances. To fix this issue, try running your dryer on a circuit that is dedicated solely to your dryer.
Faulty electrical components
Another possible reason why your dryer may be tripping the breaker is due to faulty electrical components. This can include a damaged or faulty heating element, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a defective thermal fuse.
If any of these components are damaged or not functioning properly, it can cause the dryer to draw too much power and trip the breaker. To fix this issue, you’ll need to replace the faulty component.
Using an extension cord with dryer
Using an extension power cords to power your dryer is never a good idea. Extension cords are not designed to handle the high power demands of a dryer and can cause electrical issues, including tripping the breaker.
Improper ventilation causes tripping
Another possible reason why your dryer may be tripping the breaker is due to improper ventilation. If your dryer is not properly vented, it can cause the dryer to overheat, which can lead to electrical issues and potentially trip the breaker. To fix it make sure your dryer is properly vented and that the air vent is free of any blockages.
How to troubleshoot and fix a dryer tripping circuit breaker
If your dryer is tripping the breaker, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue. Here are some steps you can take.
- Unplug the dryer and wait a few minutes before plugging it back in. This can sometimes reset the breaker and solve the issue.
- Check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. If it has, reset it and try running the dryer again.
- Check the wiring to make sure all connections are secure and not damaged.
- Check the heating element assembly, thermostat, and thermal fuse for any damage or signs of wear. If any of these components are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
- Make sure your dryer is properly vented and that the vent is free of any blockages.
Preventative measures for avoiding future breaker trips
To avoid future dryer trip the circuit, there are a few preventative measures you can take.
- Make sure your dryer is properly installed and that it is plugged into a 240-volt outlet designed for a dryer.
- Run your dryer on a dedicated circuit that is not shared with other appliances.
- Have your dryer regularly maintained by a professional to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Clean your dryer’s lint filter after every use to prevent blockages and improve ventilation.
Reasons Electric Dryer Is Tripping Breaker Dryer Troubleshooting
A dryer that keeps tripping the breaker can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous issue. By understanding your dryer’s electrical needs and the common reasons why it may trip the breaker, you can troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue. By taking preventative measures and properly maintaining your dryer, you can avoid future breaker trips and keep your dryer running safely.
If you need help with your dryer tripping the breaker just leave a comment below detailing your problem and we will help you fix it.
Jackie Derrel Dixon,
Turning on both your dryer and washing machine at the same time is causing an overload on the main circuit, triggering the circuit breaker to trip as a safety measure.
This has to do with the electrical power both appliances are needing at the same time.
(The dryer pulls high amps when starting and running since it has a heating element and usually 240 volts)
The solution? Use only one appliance at a time, or possibly, you have a bad breaker, or have the breaker box rewired so the laundry room electrical is separated.
-RR
When I turn on my dryer and washing machine on at the same time it will trip the main breaker