PowerXL Short Circuit / Ground Fault

Unit trips the household circuit breaker or GFCI when starting.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Shorted heating element to chassis, Damaged power cord insulation, Moisture inside unit causing leakage, Shorted components on power board

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that trips immediately; this indicates a potentially dangerous fault.

User checks:

  • Try another outlet: Use a different circuit (non-GFCI) to confirm if the issue follows the appliance.
  • Inspect cord: Check for visible damage to the power cord.

Advanced:

  • Insulation check: With the unit unplugged, inspect internal wiring for contact with sharp metal edges or signs of arcing.
  • Heater test: Measure resistance from each heater terminal to chassis; any low resistance indicates a ground fault and the heater should be replaced.

Do not use: If a ground fault is suspected, discontinue use until the faulty component is replaced.

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Repair Difficulty

Professional Required 5/5

Required Part

Heating Element Assembly
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