What is this?
Cookers and ovens in UK homes run on a dedicated circuit, typically protected by a 32A MCB. When the cooker trips the electrics, it usually means there is an earth fault in the oven (a damaged element, moisture in the unit, or degraded insulation) or a fault in the wiring between the consumer unit and the cooker connection unit. Because cookers draw high current, any fault is significant.
Common causes
- Oven heating element has cracked or failed, leaking current to earth
- Moisture or food debris inside the oven causing a tracking fault to earth
- Loose or corroded connection at the cooker connection unit or isolator
- Cable between the consumer unit and cooker has been damaged
- Fan oven motor is faulty and drawing excessive current
Is it dangerous?
A cooker that trips the electrics should not be used until the fault is found. While the RCD or MCB is doing its job protecting you, the underlying fault could worsen. A failed oven element can arc and cause burns or fire inside the oven. If you smell burning that is not food, or see sparks inside the oven, turn it off at the cooker isolator and do not use it.
Can I fix it myself?
You can check the consumer unit for a tripped MCB and try resetting it. Clean the inside of the oven thoroughly, as food debris and grease can cause tracking faults when heated. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, or the MCB trips as soon as the oven heats up, the oven or its wiring needs professional attention.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if the cooker trips the MCB or RCD repeatedly, if it only trips when the oven reaches a certain temperature (suggesting a failing element), or if you notice any damage to the cooker connection unit or isolator switch. An electrician can determine whether the fault is in the oven or the fixed wiring.
What will an electrician do?
Isolate the cooker circuit and test the wiring for insulation resistance
Inspect the cooker connection unit and isolator for loose or burnt connections
Test the oven elements, fan motor, and thermostat for earth faults
Replace the faulty element or component if the fault is in the oven
Repair or replace damaged wiring or connection units
Test the circuit after repair to ensure safe operation
Typical cost
£80 – £300
Wiring fault diagnosis and repair at the lower end. Oven element replacement is typically £100–£200 including parts. If the entire cooker connection needs rewiring, costs are higher.
