Why does my heater trip the power when I switch it on?

If a heater trips the power, treat it as a safety issue and stop using it until the cause is understood. A short circuit, damaged cord, socket problem or internal fault can all cause this, and heaters are mains-powered appliances that should not be repeatedly reset and re-tested if they are behaving this way.

Check the socket and plug only

1. Unplug the heater immediately.
2. Look for damage to the plug, cable or visible parts of the heater.
3. Test a different suitable appliance in the same socket, or plug the heater into a different socket only if the cable and plug look undamaged.

Expected result: if the socket was the problem, another appliance may also fail there. If the heater trips in more than one socket, the fault is likely with the heater.

Check for obvious overload causes

1. Do not use the heater with extension leads, multi-way adaptors or other high-load appliances on the same circuit.
2. Ensure the heater is completely dry and has not been exposed to water.
3. Switch it on again only once, if the product appears undamaged and dry.

Expected result: a healthy heater on a suitable circuit should start without tripping the supply.

Stop using the product immediately if the power trips again, or if you notice heat, smell, sparks or damage to the cable, plug or socket. If the issue remains unresolved or safe use is uncertain, contact the retailer or store where the product was purchased.