Repair or replace tumble dryer?

_Andy_

Morning

Our tumbledryer has started tripping the electrics (other appliances work fine in that socket).
I appreciate there are a few possible causes for this but wondering if anyone had any thoughts as to whether it would be more economical to repair it, buy a (cheapo) new one, or buy a second-hand one.

Appreciate any thoughts

Thanks

DVardysShadow

Personally, I would investigate and find out why, then decide. But I do have a fairly comprehensive test meter. What is it tripping? Overcurrent or earth fault?

_Andy_

Hi thanks for the reply.
Not sure of the difference to be honest!

ormus

most likely cause is a faulty heating element. (dead short).
last one i got cost 14 quid. fairly simple to replace.

DVardysShadow

_Andy_ wrote: »

Hi thanks for the reply.
Not sure of the difference to be honest!

Did your 15A or 30A circuit breaker trip, the plug fuse blow or was it your earth leakage trip which went?

poppysarah

It's getting too hot.
You could open it up and give it a vac out. They often get full of fluff.

_Andy_

Thanks poppy - I tried that and switched it on - worked for a frustrating minute then tripped again!

DVardysShadow

_Andy_ wrote: »

Thanks poppy - I tried that and switched it on - worked for a frustrating minute then tripped again!

So, exactly what tripped?

_Andy_

Sorry but I have zero knowledge of electrics.
I believe the RCD tripped on the consumer unit?

macman

Try it on a different socket, and preferably a different circuit, to establish that it's the appliance and not the socket or circuit that is faulty.

DVardysShadow

_Andy_ wrote: »

Sorry but I have zero knowledge of electrics.
I believe the RCD tripped on the consumer unit?

Well it makes a difference. RCD = Residual Current Device ie Earth Leakage breaker.

This looks more like filth or even damp inside bridging to ground. As you have zero knowledge of electrics, I will tell you to unplug it completely. Then take it apart, give the insides a good vacuuming and vacuum all electrical parts you can access simply, plus clean up any obvious mess involving wiring. Then put it back together and try it again. If it still trips, it will probably be the motor, but it depends. You could then take it to a repairman or replace.