Why Does My Electric Oven Keep Tripping?

There is never a good time for your oven to trip your electric, but even more so when you are hungry (no one wants to see your hangry side!). If your electric oven keeps tripping, it could be due to a number of problems. Generally speaking, if the trip happens when the oven is switched on, there is usually an issue with the circuit or wiring. If it trips when a specific function on the oven is used, there may be an issue with the linked component. 

Here is a quick rundown on the most common causes of your oven tripping: 

1. Circuit Problem 

If your electric oven keeps tripping, the most likely culprit is the circuit. Unfortunately, the complexity of oven circuits will more than likely mean you will need an expert technician. The technician will unplug any other appliances connected to the same circuit as the oven. This should stop the oven from tripping. If this is the case, you may have to upgrade the oven circuit to increase capacity.

If there are no other appliances connected on the same circuit, they will perform the following checks: 

• Measure the current power load on the circuit when the oven is on. An upgrade will be necessary if the load is too much for the circuit. 
• Check for damages to the insulation of the circuit wires. The electricity could be tripping if there is a faulty circuit breaker or an issue with wiring in the circuit. 

2. Oven Plug/Wiring Problem

When the oven is off, the power current of the oven should normally read zero. If the current is greater than 0.3A, then the oven wire could be damaged. A technician will be able to measure the current of the oven. They will then be able to inspect the power plug for damaged wiring after the appliance has been unplugged. 

Additionally, there could be an issue with the terminal blocks. Terminal blocks are often used in European installations. For them to be compatible with UK circuits, the links need to be positioned in the correct way. If they are not positioned correctly, this could be causing your oven to trip. If you have recently purchased the oven, check the manual for instructions on how to position the links correctly. If you have an older oven, terminal blocks tend to deteriorate over time, in which case it will need to be replaced. A technician will be able to advise you on which is the correct model to buy. 

3. Oven Component Problem 

If there are no issues with the circuit and the wiring, the components themselves could be causing the oven to trip. 

To check this, ensure there are no other appliances connected on the same circuit. Turn the oven on at a low temperature. If the electricity trips instantly, the issue is likely to be in the fuse. If it does not trip instantly, it confirms that the fuse is in working order. 

If the electricity does not trip immediately, slowly raise the temperature of the oven. If the electricity trips when it reaches a higher temperature, one of the heating elements could be at fault. To resolve the issue, you will require a replacement element. Again, this will require the expertise of a technician. 

Other components that could cause your electrics to trip include:

• Oven function switch
• Fans
• Thermostats
• Lamp

You can work out in which general area the fault is occurring through selecting certain functions. There are also tools available to measure components in ovens to check if they are working properly. However, it is always recommended you seek assistance from an expert technician. 

Cooker Solutions

The world of oven repairs can be a minefield for anyone not trained in electrics. If your oven keeps tripping, it is highly recommended that you contact a professional for their expertise. While it is always great if you can resolve the problem yourself, trying to resolve an electrical issue could cost you more than it is worth. Cooker Solutions offer professional oven, cooker and hob repair services for all makes and models in South London. Get in touch with us today on 0750 822 9049 or complete our online contact form.