Ever hear a pop and see your appliance go dead? That’s usually a blown fuse. It’s the circuit’s way of protecting itself when something goes wrong. A fuse is cheap, but swapping it yourself can save time and money – if you do it right.
Why Fuses Blow
Most home appliances have a fuse to stop excess electricity from burning out the wiring. A few common reasons for a fuse to go out are:
• Overloaded circuit – plugging too many things into one socket.
• Faulty motor or heating element – they draw more power than they should.
• Short circuit – a wire touches metal where it shouldn’t.
If any of these happen, the fuse melts and cuts off power. That’s why you suddenly lose heat in an oven or your microwave stops humming.
How to Replace a Blown Fuse
Before you start, unplug the appliance. Safety first.
1. Find the fuse. Look for a small glass or ceramic tube in the power cord or inside the appliance’s control panel. Most microwaves, ovens and dishwashers have a replaceable fuse near the plug.
2. Check the rating. The numbers on the fuse (for example, 5A 250V) tell you the exact size you need. Using a higher rating can be dangerous; stick to the original.
3. Swap it out. Gently pull the old fuse out with pliers if needed, and slide the new one in the same direction.
4. Test it. Plug the appliance back in and see if it works. If it still won’t turn on, the problem might be deeper than a simple fuse.
Most cracked or blown fuses cost between £2 and £10. If you need to replace a microwave fuse, you’ll likely pay £5‑£12 for the part plus a small service fee if you call a pro.
When you’re not comfortable opening the appliance or the fuse is inside a sealed unit, it’s best to call a qualified repair service. Trying to force a fuse out can damage the wiring and lead to more expensive fixes.
Remember, a blown fuse is a warning sign. If it keeps happening, ask a technician to look for underlying issues like a failing motor or worn‑out heating element. Fixing the root cause stops the fuse from blowing again and extends the life of your appliance.
Bottom line: a fuse is cheap, and replacing it yourself is straightforward for most kitchen gear. Just unplug, match the rating, swap, and test. If the problem persists, get a professional in – it’ll save you headaches later.
Wondering if your microwave isn't working because of a blown fuse? This article explains the telltale signs, why a fuse might blow, and how you can safely check it yourself. You'll learn where to find the fuse, when to grab a new one, and when it’s time to call in a professional. Avoid kitchen mishaps and extra bills by understanding what's going on inside your appliance. Every tip is straightforward and easy to follow, no prior repair skills needed.
