A tripping fuse box is one of the most common electrical issues tenants experience. It’s usually caused by a faulty appliance or an overloaded circuit. The good news is that it can often be identified safely with a few simple checks. Follow these four steps before calling for maintenance.
Step 1 – Turn Off the Power
Start by turning off the power at the fuse board. Push all the switches down to the “off” position.
Step 2 – Unplug Everything
Unplug all appliances and devices you can access in the property, including TVs, kettles, phone chargers, lamps, and other plugs.
If possible, make sure larger appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, oven, and hob are turned off.
Turn off the timer for your electric immersion or water cylinder — your water control panel should be in the “off” position.
At this stage, nothing should be plugged in or switched on, except perhaps the fridge freezer.
Step 3 – Reset the Fuse Box
Return to the fuse board and flip up all the switches to turn the power back on.
Step 4 – Test Your Appliances
Plug in and switch on appliances one at a time. After each one, check the fuse board:
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If everything stays on, move to the next appliance.
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When the fuse trips again, you’ve found the likely cause.
Leave that specific appliance unplugged or turned off, and contact the correct contractor — a plumber, electrician, or appliance repair company, depending on the appliance affected.
Safety Precautions to Remember
Never attempt electrical repairs yourself. If the fuse box continues to trip after unplugging everything, or if you notice sparks or a burning smell, turn off the power immediately and call a qualified electrician.
For official guidance on electrical safety, visit the ESB Networks safety page.
Need Assistance?
If you’re an Earnest tenant and your fuse box keeps tripping, please report the issue using our property issue reporting system.
For general queries or advice, you can also contact us directly.