Why Is My Dishwasher Tripping the Circuit Breaker?

If your dishwasher trips the circuit breaker when you plug it in or while it’s running, it could be a sign of an electrical problem. This failure can come from the device itself or from the power supply circuit which is upstream of it.

This is why it is important to understand when the dishwasher will trip. This can happen when you plug in the socket, during washing when the dishwasher is going to heat up or even when drying. It will be necessary to test and verify certain elements responsible for this failure:

• the power outlet
• the heating resistor
• the noise filter
• the elements under the tank
• door security

Experiencing a tripped circuit breaker when running your dishwasher can be frustrating and inconvenient. When a dishwasher repeatedly trips the circuit breaker, it indicates an underlying issue that needs attention. Understanding the potential causes of this problem can help you troubleshoot and resolve it. In this article, we will explore some common reasons why a dishwasher may trip the circuit breaker and provide guidance on how to address them.

1. Overloaded Circuit

One of the most common reasons for a dishwasher tripping the circuit breaker is an overloaded circuit. Dishwashers typically require a dedicated circuit to operate properly. If other appliances or devices are sharing the same circuit, it can cause an overload. Follow these steps:

1. Identify Other Appliances: Determine if there are other high-powered appliances or devices connected to the same circuit as your dishwasher. Examples include refrigerators, microwave ovens, or electric water heaters.
2. Relocate Appliances: If possible, redistribute the appliances so that the dishwasher has its own dedicated circuit. Consider hiring a professional electrician to install a separate circuit for your dishwasher if necessary.

2. Electrical Short Circuit

An electrical short circuit within the dishwasher or its electrical components can cause the circuit breaker to trip. Here’s what you can do:

1. Inspect the Power Cord: Check the power cord for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires or exposed conductors. If you notice any issues, it may indicate a short circuit, and the power cord should be replaced.
2. Examine the Wiring: If you are comfortable working with electrical components, you can inspect the dishwasher’s internal wiring. Look for loose connections, damaged wires, or signs of a short circuit. Consult the dishwasher’s manual or contact a professional technician for guidance.

3. Faulty Heating Element or Motor

A malfunctioning heating element or motor can cause excessive power consumption, leading to a tripped circuit breaker. Consider these steps:

1. Test the Heating Element: Use a multimeter to check the continuity of the heating element. If there is no continuity or other signs of damage, the heating element may need to be replaced.
2. Inspect the Motor: Examine the dishwasher’s motor for any signs of damage, such as burnt components or a burning smell. If the motor is faulty, it should be replaced by a professional technician.

4. Water Damage or Leakage

Water damage or leakage within the dishwasher can result in electrical problems, including a tripped circuit breaker. Follow these steps:

1. Check for Water Leakage: Inspect the dishwasher for any signs of water leakage around the door, bottom, or other components. Ensure that all seals and gaskets are intact and functioning properly.
2. Address Water Damage: If you discover any water damage, it’s important to address it promptly. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply and contact a professional technician to assess and repair any water-related issues.

5. Defective Circuit Breaker

In some cases, the tripping issue may not be related to the dishwasher itself but rather a defective circuit breaker. Consider the following steps:

1. Test the Circuit Breaker: If you have experience working with electrical components, you can test the circuit breaker using a multimeter. However, it is recommended to consult a professional electrician to accurately diagnose and address any circuit breaker issues.
2. Consult a Professional: If you suspect a faulty circuit breaker, it is best to consult a professional electrician to inspect and potentially replace the circuit breaker if necessary.

CHECK THE NOISE FILTER OF THE DISHWASHER

The noise filter, also called the noise suppression capacitor, is a component found in almost all household appliances. Its role is to eliminate parasites so as not to interfere with the operation of the machine.

It connects to the electrical cord inside the machine. To find it, all you need to do is walk along the electrical cord. As a rule, the black live wire and the blue neutral wire are connected to it with female terminals or a connector. The suppression capacitor has a cylindrical shape or the shape of a small block.

• This test is carried out under voltage: wear gloves and do not touch the metal parts with your fingers.
• Select the position of your multimeter’s ohmmeter on the 200 or 600 ohm caliber of your meter.
• Put the multimeter probes on the lugs of the electrical cord that are connected to the noise filter (blue and brown wires). The voltage found should be the same as the electrical outlet, i.e. about 230 volts AC. If not, then your noise filter or capacitor is to blame.

If you cannot access the terminals to take a measurement, you can turn off the device and disconnect the wires from the capacitor to perform a continuity test.

CHECK DOOR SECURITY

Your dishwasher is equipped with a door safety device so the cycle cannot start when the door is open.

• The safety device is located at the top of the door: it catches on a hook located opposite it, at the top of the tank.
• For this control, you will have to be careful: the door protection is activated only a few moments after you start your program.
• If your device fires within the first two seconds of starting your program, the door lock is faulty.

In conclusion, a dishwasher tripping the circuit breaker can be caused by an overloaded circuit, electrical short circuit, faulty heating element or motor, water damage or leakage, or a defective circuit breaker. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can identify and address many of these issues. However, if the problem persists or you are uncertain about performing any repairs yourself, it is best to consult a professional technician or electrician for further assistance. They will have the expertise to diagnose the underlying cause of the tripping issue and provide the appropriate repair solution, ensuring your dishwasher operates safely and reliably without tripping the circuit breaker.