Why Does a Dishwasher Keep Tripping the Circuit Breaker?

Everyone knows that a circuit breaker is one of many lines of defense for your home. If an appliance is using too much electricity and there is a risk of damage to the appliance or the home, the circuit breaker will trip and shut off the power. So if the dishwasher keeps tripping the circuit breaker, you are right to be concerned. Of course, you are also right to be annoyed that you cannot use your appliance. So what is causing this to happen?

Faulty Plug or Cord

When this issue happens, you will want to first look at the electrical components in your appliance. The easiest to inspect is the plug, cord, outlet that the appliance plugs into. You will want to make sure the circuit breaker is such off before doing this for safety. Once done, inspect these areas for melting, damage, or even something small like scorch marks. You may also wish to open the back of your dishwasher to inspect the electrical connectors of the power cord as this is typically where faults happen first.

Water is Leaking

Water and electricity do not go well together. If your dishwasher has a leak and that water is making contact with electrical parts, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip unexpectedly. The good news is that there will be water evidence of a leak. If you find water anywhere outside of the tub of your dishwasher, this is a good sign that fixing a leak will mean fixing the tripped breaker issue.

Faulty Heating Element

Even if your dishwasher uses a hot water connection, your dishwasher also uses a heating element to heat the water to the appropriate temperature. However, if your heating element has become damaged or is malfunctioning and using too much electricity, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip unexpectedly and often.