SMAD Electrical Short or Ground Fault

Unit trips the household circuit breaker or GFCI when it starts.

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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 compressor winding, damaged power cord, water intrusion into electrical components, shorted fan or pump motor

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that trips immediately; risk of fire or shock. Unplug the unit before inspection.

Steps:

  • Inspect cord: Check the power cord for cuts or crushed sections. Replace if damaged.
  • Check for moisture: Look for signs of water leaks near the control board, compressor, or motors. Dry thoroughly and correct any leaks.
  • Isolate components: A technician can disconnect the compressor, fan, and pump one at a time to identify the shorted component.

Recommendation: Because this involves live electrical testing and potential compressor faults, contact a qualified appliance technician for diagnosis and replacement of the faulty component.

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Repair Difficulty

Professional Required 5/5
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