Sometimes people face electrical problems such as breaker tripping after plugging their heat press. Facing this problem after buying new equipment is obviously concerning for the owner.
So, why your heat press keeps tripping breaker?
A heat press may cause a breaker to trip if it is using excessive power if the wiring is damaged, or if the breaker is faulty. Also, the placing of the heat press and having a short circuit can be the reason for this. In order to resolve the problem and avoid electrical risks or equipment damage, it may be essential to seek the advice of a professional electrician.
Here, we covered some possible solutions to solve this issue. So, if you are facing such difficulty go through this whole article.
7 Reasons Behind Your Heat Press Keeps Tripping Breaker
There are several reasons that can cause your heat press to keep tripping. Here are some reasons and proper solutions for you.
| Major Issues | Reasons | Solutions |
| Having Problems in The Outlet |
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| Loose Connection |
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| Blocked Airflow |
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| Short Circuit |
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| Damaged Wiring |
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| Overloading The Circuit |
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| Defective Circuit Breaker |
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Reason 1: Having Problems in The Outlet
The first thing you should do when your heat press keeps tripping is to check the outlet. It is required since the voltage, wiring, circuit load, and grounding of the outlet might all be potential origins of the problem.
It can result in the heat press using too much power or short-circuiting, leading to tripping the breaker. If you can fix all of your outlet problems, the heat press won’t trip the breaker in the future.
Solution:
When your heat press repeatedly trips the breaker, you can check the outlet by doing the following actions:
Step 1: Before checking the outlet, make sure the heat press is disconnected and the breaker is off.
Step 2: Verify that the voltage of the outlet matches the voltage needed by the heater by checking its voltage.
Step 3: Look for any obvious evidence of damage, such as frayed wires or burn marks, on the outlet.
Step 4: To make sure the outlet is not overloaded with other devices, check the circuit load of the outlet. Setting a multimeter to measure the voltage you can easily read the circuit load.
Step 5: In order to be sure the outlet is properly grounded and operating, test it using a voltage tester or multimeter.
So, you can detect any potential problems that could be causing the heat press to trip the breaker by inspecting the outlet and then taking action to address them.
Reason 2: Loose Connection
Another cause of your heat press often tripping the breaker might be a loose connection. Anywhere in the electrical circuit, including the outlet, wiring, or even inside the heat press itself, a loose connection can occur.
Electricity can flow less freely when there is a loose link in the electrical circuit. This can result in the heat press consuming more current than it is supposed to, which causes tripping the breaker.
Solution:
To ensure that your heat press functions safely, properly, and without tripping the breaker, it is essential to prevent loose connections. The following actions can be taken to fix loose connections:
Step 1: Turn off and unplug the heat press:
Before you attempt to fix any loose connections, make sure to turn off and unplug the heat press.
Step 2: Check the power cable first:
The power cord should be checked first. Ensure that the heat press and the power outlet are both properly connected. Replace the power cable right away if you discover any damage.
Step 3: Check the heating element:
Make sure the heating element is functioning properly. Search for any loose wires or connections that might be the source of the problem. Make any loose wires tighter with a screwdriver if you discover any.
Step 4: Check The Pressure Switch
If the steps listed above are unsuccessful in solving the problem, you might need to examine the pressure switch. The pressure switch controls how much pressure is applied to the heat press; if it isn’t functioning properly, the heat press may trip.
By turning the heat press on and off and ensuring that it responds properly, you may test the pressure switch. It could be necessary to replace the pressure switch if it isn’t operating properly.
By following these instructions, you may avoid loose connections and make sure that your heat press operates safely and effectively without tripping the circuit breaker.
Reason 3: Blocked Airflow
Your heat press may be tripping the breaker repeatedly because of blocked airflow. When in use, heat presses produce a lot of heat, therefore enough circulation is necessary to avoid overheating and electrical issues.
The circuit may consume more current than it should due to overheating, leading to tripping the breaker. The wiring and control panel of the heat press, as well as other electrical parts, can be harmed by overheating. Overheating also can cause tape marks on the sublimation tumbler.
Solution:
It is essential to make sure the heat press has adequate ventilation and airflow. Always Keep your heat press away from walls, drapes, and other items that can restrict airflow, and make sure it’s not placed in a small space.
If you think obstructed airflow is the main problem, consider relocating it to a new spot with improved ventilation or using a fan to boost airflow. Sometimes sublimation fumes can be harmful so the proper placement of the heat press is important.
Reason 4: Short Circuit
When two hot wires come into direct touch with one another or with a neutral or ground wire, a short circuit results. When there is an excessive current flow in the electrical circuit due to a short circuit, the circuit breaker trips as a precaution.
Additionally, a short circuit has the potential to harm the wiring, control panel, and other electrical parts of the heat press. As a result, damaged electrical components make the breaker often trip.
Solution:
By making sure that the heat press is correctly connected and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, a short circuit can be prevented. Make sure there’s no leak, as well as none of the electrical components, are frayed or damaged.
Additionally, avoid putting too many gadgets into the same outlet to prevent overloading the circuit. If you feel a short circuit is responsible for your heat press tripping the breaker, It’s needed to stop using your heat press right away.
However, the next step will be contacting a competent expert to evaluate and fix any potential electrical issues. Always remember self-repairing a short circuit is risky and may result in electrical shock or the fuse can get blown.
Reason 5: Damaged Wiring
Over time, the insulation around electrical wiring deteriorates, becomes dirty, and gets worn out. Circuit breakers may quickly cut off the power supply due to wiring issues, which will result in your heat press automatically turning off. Some people attempt to sublimate over a sublimation with a faulty heat press.
Your heat press’s electrical wiring can suffer damage from heat, wear and tear, or bending over time. As you know, damaged wiring may cause a short circuit or other electrical issues.
Remember, damaged wiring can also result in a ground fault, which happens when a hot wire contacts a ground wire or a metal surface. Which can result in an excessive current flow that causes tripping the breaker.
Solution:
It’s necessary to do routine maintenance on your heat press to make sure that all wiring and connections are safe and undamaged in order to prevent damaged wiring.
Step 1: First, look for any evidence of fraying, cracking, or damage in the wiring, and replace any broken wires or parts immediately.
Step 2: Verify that the ground wire is correctly linked to the heat press and that the press is placed appropriately. High humidity should be avoided while using the heat press since moisture might harm the electrical components.
Because if humid air gets inside electrical equipment, it can harm the wires and other parts. Rust and corrosion will make the item difficult to use. When water droplets come into touch with the electronics, it can cause short circuits.
Step 3: You need to stop using the heat presses right away and contact an expert to evaluate and fix any potential electrical issues.
However, attempting to fix damaged wiring yourself can be dangerous and can cause further damage to the electrical components or even lead to a dangerous accident.
Reason 6: Overloading The Circuit
When you try to pull more current through the circuit than it is intended to handle, you overload the circuit. When a circuit is overloaded, an excessive amount of current flows across it, which makes the circuit breaker trip to prevent further damage.
The circuit’s high current flow may potentially overheat the wire and other electrical parts. As you know overheating can cause the circuit to draw more current than it should, leading to the breaker tripping.
Solution:
To avoid overloading, it’s crucial to make sure the heat press is hooked into an outlet that can supply the necessary current. You can prevent overloading your circuit by following these recommendations.
Suggestion 1:
First, you may examine the circuit’s electrical capacity. Verify the circuit’s electrical capability before connecting your heat press to it. Sometimes the circuit is unable to support the load of the heat press.
At that time you may need to use a lower setting or connect the heat press to a separate circuit with a larger capacity. Always ensure that the heat press has a 15–20 amp circuit dedicated to it.
Suggestion 2:
If other high-wattage devices are already receiving power from the circuit where your heat press is plugged in, disconnect them while using the heat press.
Suggestion 3:
Avoid using extension cords or power strips to plug in your heat press. These can cause voltage drops and increase the load on the circuit, leading to the breaker tripping.
By following these you can reduce the risk of overloading the circuit and prevent your heat press from tripping the breaker.
Reason 7: Defective Circuit Breaker
Circuit breakers are supposed to wear and tear over time, particularly if they have been in use for a long period. The breaker may trip as a result of being unable to handle the current flowing through the circuit.
Circuit breakers may become stuck in the open or closed position due to malfunctioning connections. Even when there is no overload on the circuit, this can make the breaker trip.
However, the circuit breaker might not be able to manage the load if it was not placed properly. That’s why it’s necessary to have a routine checkup for your circuit breaker.
Solution:
You must have your electrical system routinely examined by a licensed electrician to avoid having a faulty circuit breaker trigger your heat press. The circuit breakers may be examined for wear or damage, and they can be replaced if necessary.
Here are the steps for replacing a circuit breaker:
- Remove the screws holding the circuit breaker panel cover once the machine has cooled down, and then take care to remove it.
- Decide which circuit breaker needs to be changed. Check for any signs of wear or damage, such as melting or burning.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the faulty circuit breaker in place. From the panel, carefully remove the circuit breaker.
- In the same slot from where the old circuit breaker was removed, insert the new one. To keep the circuit breaker in place, tighten the screws.
- Using the screws you removed, reattach the circuit breaker panel cover. Then restart the power.
Do not try to fix or replace the circuit breaker yourself if you think it may be the cause of your heat press tripping. This can be dangerous and can cause further damage to your electrical system. Instead, get a licensed electrician to examine the circuit breaker, fix it if necessary, or replace it.
How to Reset My Heat Press?
Resetting the device is the last option you have if the above solution didn’t help. Follow these procedures to reset your heat press:
Step 1: Turn off the heat press
Press the power button to turn off the heat press, or disconnect it from the outlet, whichever you want.
Step 2: Wait for a few minutes
Before moving on to the next step, wait a few minutes for the heat press to cool down.
Step 3: Find the reset button
The reset button for your heat press may be on the control panel or at the rear of the device, depending on the model.
Step 4: Find the reset button
Press the reset button by holding it down for a few seconds with a tiny, pointed item like a pen or paperclip.
Step 5: Release the reset button
After that Release the reset button and wait for a few seconds before turning the heat and pressing back on.
Step 6: Turn on the heat press again
Pressing the power button or plugging the heat press back into the outlet will turn the machine on.
Step 7: Test the heat press
Set the temperature and time settings to the correct levels and push the heating element firmly against the material to test the heat press.
You might need to refer to the user manual or get in touch with the manufacturer for more help if the heat press still acts up or trips the breaker.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Do You Need A Special Outlet for The Heat Press?
It is recommended that all heat press machines need to connect with a dedicated 20 amp outlet to avoid maxing out your electricity or blowing fuses. Heat presses frequently work using an electrical outlet found in a typical home. So while using a heat press it is necessary to choose the outlet properly.
Is It Safe to Reset A Tripped Breaker?
Yes, It is okay to reset a breaker only if it has been shown that the circuit was overloaded. Resetting a breaker repeatedly might cause an arc flare or a fire. If a short circuit or ground fault is the main issue, then it must be investigated by a licensed electrician.
How Many Times Can You Reset A Tripped Breaker?
Breakers are designed to be reset multiple times. This doesn’t mean that each time there is an overload or short circuit, the breaker should be reset. if a breaker trips again after being reset, investigate the electrical problem, and contact a household electrician.
Conclusion
Now you know what to do and why your heat press keeps tripping breaker. When you face such a kind issue it is possible to fix it without panicking. In order to prevent serious problems, always try to maintain your electrical equipment properly and have your electric lines regularly inspected by a professional.