Fridge Freezer Tripping Electrics (MCB/RCD)

Gemini said

Please remember: Electrical work is inherently dangerous. Always unplug appliances before inspecting and never work on live circuits. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

If your fridge or freezer is suddenly plunging your house into darkness, don't panic. This is often a sign of a specific component failure rather than a need for a brand-new appliance.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist:

• The Isolation Test: Unplug the unit. If the power stays on, the fault is internal to the fridge.

• The Environment: Is the unit in a damp garage? Moisture often trips the RCD.

• The Compressor: Listen for a "click" or a "buzz." A failing compressor motor is a primary suspect for tripping the MCB.

• Visual Check: Inspect the plug and cable for any signs of overheating or fraying.

As with all electrical items there is a chance of internal failure or damage that would affect the insulation of a wire or even short an item out which in turn could automatically turn off the main electricity supply.

This occurs automatically when a fault appears its is usually instantaneous as well in order to protect users from electric shock usually when its a breaker is a large short which will trip the breaker, but you can also have very minor leakage to earth 30ma which can trip an RCD residual current device.

In an electrical problems firstly be safe never work live or put your life in danger , having said that unplug the fridge freezer from the wall and turn on electric if it does not trip you know the fridge is the problems and the main supply is good.

If it still trips with fridge unplugged then its likely the problem is either the cable or the outlet socket but it could be in the consumer unit.

Youi have narrowed it down to the fridge freezer itself check the plug and cable for signs of damage, you can open up the plug and check the wiring to ensure its wired correctly no lose wires or fraying. What area is the fridge in as if its outside or in a dark damp place we have seen these units trip out electricity and it would be better to fit them inside the home in a dry warm environment.

Clicking or a buzzing noise is a sign the compressor or control replays are faulty , the compressor having moving internal components is always a good place to start. see our post on testing these here. 

You can check the wiring for obvious signs of damage and any burn marks on electronic boards. Check the motors on any fans as these can short out or even short to ground and trip RCDs.