Is My Circuit Overloaded and Causing the Fuse to Blow?

  • Thread starter Thread starter TSN79
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Fuse
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a household circuit that frequently blows its 10-amp fuse due to excessive load. The user initially estimated their load at 3.5 kW, which translates to approximately 15 amps at 230 volts, exceeding the fuse's capacity. Participants emphasized the importance of understanding inrush current from electric motors, which can trip breakers despite nominal current ratings. The consensus is that the circuit is overloaded, and users should verify the connected devices and consider the circuit's wiring specifications before making any adjustments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical load calculations (e.g., watts, volts, amps)
  • Familiarity with inrush current and its effects on circuit breakers
  • Knowledge of household wiring standards (e.g., UK vs. US regulations)
  • Basic electrical safety practices to prevent hazards
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate electrical load for household circuits
  • Learn about inrush current and its impact on circuit breakers
  • Investigate local wiring regulations and standards for residential circuits
  • Explore safe practices for upgrading circuit capacity and fuse ratings
USEFUL FOR

Homeowners, electricians, and DIY enthusiasts troubleshooting electrical issues or optimizing household circuit performance.

TSN79
Messages
422
Reaction score
0
I have a circuit in my house that sometimes blows its fuse. Now, electricity is not my field at all so I'm asking you guys. I know the fuse is 10 amps, I use perhaps 3,5 kW on this circuit, and we have 230 V over here. Don't know if that's enough info to make any form of judgement on whether or not I'm using to much stuff on this circuit, but I don't know what else to tell you...
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Just a thought, is the load an electric motor? Motors have a very high inrush that can trip a breaker, even though the nominal current is well below the breaker rating. (Inrush is the current when the motor is started and before it gets up to speed.)
 
As Russ pointed out, 230volts X 10 amps = 2300watts, well below both of your predicted loads.
Simply put, you have too much plugged in.
 
Ah, now I get the equation at least. Obviously I must have overestimated the load. Thx guys :)
 
10A sounds low for a 230V ring main. I would expect 15A or 30A
What have you got connected to the fuse, Lights or Wall sockets? this is important as it will affect how you track down the fault.
Do you know how many rings are in your house and how they are nominally connected?
Also what country are you in? as whilst I can track down faults I am much better with UK type wiring regs than US type ones, and what the Greeks do frightens me.
 
Easy peesy lemon squeezy. Overloaded circuit and fuse as already stated.

As Panda mentioned 10A is an odd rating. Have a look to check the cable size the circuit has been run on is substantial enough to take the load. Don't just bung in a higher fuse and forget about it. Unless of course you want to run the risk of an electrical fire (you don't) :wink:
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
14K
  • · Replies 83 ·
3
Replies
83
Views
7K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
20K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
7K
Replies
11
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K