Whirlpool ADG7540 Tripping Main RCD

[hotshot]

My Whirlpool ADG7540 has started tripping the main RCD. Occurs a few minutes into a hot programme, presumably when the heater comes on after the initial rinse. I’m guessing that it’s the heater because a cold programme doesn’t trip the RCD. Can I test with a multimeter to verify this? Is it common for the heater to fail in this way? How much is a new heater?

[Penguin45]

Re: Whirlpool ADG7540 Tripping Main RCD

Multimeter may show an earth leak. Megger is the only proper way to do it.

Element is p/no 4812 259 28684, about £48 from memory. An email to spares@ukwhitegoods.co.uk will get things moving for you.

Power off when investigating, please.

Regards,
Penguin45.

[hotshot]

Re: Whirlpool ADG7540 Tripping Main RCD

Well I managed to get hold of a Megger today and it shows 200Mohm from each terminal of the heating element to earth. That seems to eliminate an earth leak, but could it be that it only fails when hot?

While I had the machine out I think I spotted a very small puncture in the short section of rubber hose that connects to the non-heater element end of the motor/pump assembly. There is also evidence of water collecting on the upperside of the bottom panel (i.e. the panel you have to remove to inspect everything at the bottom of the machine). This may be a red herring as there is no evidence that leaking water has come into contact with any electrical equipment. It also doesn’t fit with fact that the machine is OK on a cold cycle but trips the RCD on a hot cycle.

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