If the fuse on your electric or induction cooker is tripped, it's a warning sign - something is wrong with the electrical system. Ignoring it could permanently damage the appliance or even cause a fire hazard.
Below we set out the most common causes and the steps to take.
Common causes
1. Short heating element
Over time, the heating elements can burn out and cause a short circuit. This is one of the most common reasons why protection is triggered.
2. Faulty control unit or power supply unit
In the case of induction cookers, the problem may lie in the control module. If the electronics become damaged, it can draw excessive current and trip the fuse.
3. Faulty plug or power cord
If the power cord is melted, shaken or damaged, an overload or short circuit may occur.
4. Incorrect connection in the electrical box
When connecting a new cooker, the problem may be with the electrical system, not the appliance. For example, incorrectly connected phases or too weak a fuse.
5. Moisture or dirt
Vapour and grease can enter the interior of the appliance, causing insulation failure and protection tripping.
What to do?
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Check whether the cooker trips the protection as soon as it is switched on, or only when some cooking zones are switched on - this will help pinpoint the fault.
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Check the plug, the cord and the wall contact - visible damage indicates an electrical risk.
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If the problem keeps recurring, don't turn the cooker on again.
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Invite a technician - It is not safe to go inside a cooker on your own. A professional technician will measure the coils and check the control box.
Summary
If the cooker blows a fuse, this is a serious sign that there is a fault in the electrical system. Common culprits are a heater, a control unit or moisture damage. The quickest and safest solution is to hire a technician to diagnose and repair the problem - this way you avoid major damage and get your cooker back up and running quickly.