A cosy electric fireplace in Canberra can turn a chilly evening into a warm and relaxing one. But if your fireplace keeps tripping the breaker, it can be more than just frustrating, it may point to a bigger issue with your electrical setup or the unit itself. Before calling in a technician, there are a few things you can check on your own.
Check the Power Load
One of the most common reasons your electric fireplace trips the breaker is that it’s pulling more power than the circuit can handle. These units use a fair bit of electricity, especially on higher heat settings. If you’re running other appliances on the same circuit, like a microwave, heater, or washing machine, it can easily overload the system.
The simplest fix is to plug the fireplace into a dedicated outlet with no other devices connected. Avoid using power boards or extension cords as they can increase the risk of tripping.
Inspect for Short Circuits or Wiring Damage
A damaged power cord or internal fault could be causing the breaker to trip. If the cord feels hot, is frayed, or shows visible signs of wear, stop using the unit immediately. Over time, internal components can degrade or get damaged, especially if the unit has been moved around or stored improperly.
At this point, it’s safer to have a licensed electrician inspect it. Attempting to fix internal wiring yourself can put you at risk of electric shock or fire.
Consider Your Home's Electrical Capacity
Older homes may not be equipped to handle modern heating solutions. If your switchboard or circuit breakers are outdated, they might trip under what would be considered a normal load for newer systems. An upgrade might be needed to support newer appliances, especially if you plan to run electric heating often.
If you're already using electric ducted heating in Canberra or other high-power appliances, the combined load could be pushing the limits of your home’s current setup. Spreading usage across different times of day or consulting an electrician for an upgrade can help prevent these issues in the future.
Keep the Fireplace Clean and Vents Clear
Dust build-up inside the fireplace or blocked vents can cause the unit to overheat, leading it to shut off or trip the breaker. Regularly check the air intake and output vents for obstructions, and give the unit a light clean as recommended in the manual. Never block the airflow around the fireplace with furniture or curtains.
Call for Expert Help if the Issue Persists
If you’ve tried the basic checks and the problem keeps coming back, it’s time to speak to a professional. Persistent breaker trips shouldn’t be ignored; they may be a sign of deeper electrical problems that could pose a safety risk.
Energy-efficient appliances are great, but only when they’re running safely. For tailored advice or help with modern heating upgrades, you can always reach out to Energy Canberra. Their local knowledge and experience with residential systems can point you in the right direction, whether it’s a repair or an upgrade.
Final Tip: Always treat repeated tripping as a warning sign, not just an inconvenience. Taking the right steps early can protect your home, reduce repair costs, and keep your fireplace running safely all winter long.
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