5 Reasons Why Fuses Blow And What To Do

Have you ever been in the middle of preparing dinner, watching your favourite show or working on an important project when suddenly everything goes dark and you realise a fuse has blown? But what causes these disruptions and how can you deal with them effectively without risking your safety or that of your home? This blog simplifies the common causes of blown fuses and provides practical tips for non-professionals while highlighting when to seek help from an expert. 

An overloaded circuit is the most common reason for a fuse to blow. This happens when too many appliances or devices operate on the same circuit, exceeding the capacity and causing the fuse to blow as a protective measure. 

What to Do: 

• Unplug some of the devices to reduce the load on the circuit. 
• Identify and distribute your power consumption more evenly across different circuits if possible. 
• Consider consulting an electrician to upgrade your electrical system or add additional circuits to accommodate your needs. 

Short circuits happen when a hot wire touches a neutral wire, creating a path of low resistance that allows an overwhelming flow of current. This dangerous situation often results from faulty installation or damaged insulation. 

What to Do: Identify and repair the fault in the wiring. This often requires tracing the circuit to find where the wires have touched. Because dealing with short circuits can be dangerous, it’s advisable to seek help from a qualified electrician. 

Similar to a short circuit, a ground fault occurs when a hot wire comes into contact with the ground or the grounding path of an appliance. Ground faults in areas with high moisture levels, like bathrooms or kitchens, are particularly hazardous. 

What to Do: Ground faults demand immediate attention due to their serious risk of shock and fire. This is a clear case where calling a professional electrician is not just advisable but necessary. 

Sometimes, the issue is not with the circuit but with the appliance itself. Faulty or damaged appliances can draw more current than they should, leading to blown fuses. 

What to Do: Test your appliances to see if one of them is causing the problem. This can be done by unplugging all the devices on the affected circuit and plugging them back in until the fuse blows again. 

Using the wrong type of fuse for a circuit or one worn out can lead to frequent blows. Fuses have specific ratings and using one that is not suitable for the circuit can lead to frequent blows. 

What to Do: Replace the blown fuse with a new one that matches the correct rating for the circuit. If you need help deciding which fuse to use, consulting with an electrician can provide clarity and ensure your electrical system is properly protected. 

Addressing the root cause of why fuses blow is critical for maintaining a safe electrical system. Always prioritise safety and consult with an electrician if you need help with how to proceed. At Peter Gow Electrical, we are dedicated to assisting you navigate the complexities of your home’s electrical system. We offer comprehensive electrical services that cover a wide range of needs, from troubleshooting electrical issues to repairing and upgrading electrical fuses. Whether you’re facing frequent blown fuses, need assistance with electrical maintenance or are looking for professional advice on electrical safety, contact us today.