3 min read
Tripped fuse board: what to do when the power cuts out
Power cut in one room, or the whole house? A tripped switch at the fuse board is a common cause, and it is worth knowing how to deal with it safely.
Work out what tripped
- 1Look at the consumer unit (fuse board). A switch that has dropped down, or a small test button that has popped out, shows what has tripped.
- 2Unplug appliances on the affected circuit, as a faulty appliance is a common cause.
- 3Push the tripped switch back up once. If it stays up, plug appliances back in one at a time.
- 4If it trips again straight away, or when you plug something in, stop. Leave it off.
When not to keep trying
A circuit that trips repeatedly is telling you something is wrong with the wiring, a socket or an appliance. Resetting again and again does not fix it and can be unsafe. This is the point to call a qualified electrician.
Good to know about cover
Our plan helps with power failures, faulty sockets, lighting issues, tripped circuits and fuse board faults. Electrical replacement parts and consumer unit replacements are not covered and may be chargeable, with a quote agreed first.
General guidance only, not a substitute for advice from a qualified engineer. If you are in any doubt, stop and ask a professional.