Why does my immersion switch keep melting? | on ElectriciansForums

Discuss Why does my immersion switch keep melting? in the DIY Electrical Advice area at ElectriciansForums.net

Mk-blg

DIY
Joined
Sep 11, 2024
Messages
3
Reaction score
4
Location
Ireland
I've had to have my immersion switch replaced 2-3 times over the last few years, the guy I had do it isn't a professional so I'm thinking he's wiring it wrong? I wired this one myself based on what way he had it wired the last time. It seems to be the blue wire that gets warm and melts everything else.

IMG_0478.jpeg
 
What's the deal with the short link in the Lout terminal?
 
What's the deal with the short link in the Lout terminal?
Link is to a 2W 20A switch, that selects between two immersion heater elements.
The green/yellow used for the link looks a little undersized, so might warm things a little, and it looks like the back box might be a bit short of room, but other than that there's nothing wrong that stands out.
 
Link is to a 2W 20A switch, that selects between two immersion heater elements.
The green/yellow used for the link looks a little undersized, so might warm things a little, and it looks like the back box might be a bit short of room, but other than that there's nothing wrong that stands out.

Ah just saw the g/y earth colours and didn't look much further.

Usual suspects would be cheap/old accessory and/or poorly made connections.
 
When you rewired the last switch, you say the blue wire had overheated - was the copper a darkened/ oxidised colour?
And were other wires affected by heat?
The discolouration can give poorer surface conductivity, and the heat can make the copper softer, both of which can lead to a poorer quality termination if the overheated switch is replaced without dealing with the damaged cable ends.
It's best, if you can, to cut the wire(s) back so that you get to shiny unoxidised copper to make new joints with.
If you did this when you last changed the switch, then I would blame the switch for the problem!
 
When you rewired the last switch, you say the blue wire had overheated - was the copper a darkened/ oxidised colour?
And were other wires affected by heat?
The discolouration can give poorer surface conductivity, and the heat can make the copper softer, both of which can lead to a poorer quality termination if the overheated switch is replaced without dealing with the damaged cable ends.
It's best, if you can, to cut the wire(s) back so that you get to shiny unoxidised copper to make new joints with.
If you did this when you last changed the switch, then I would blame the switch for the problem!
I didn’t cut them back as much as I probably should have. I will try that with the next switch. Thanks
 

Reply to Why does my immersion switch keep melting? in the DIY Electrical Advice area at ElectriciansForums.net

News and Offers from Sponsors

  • Article
As the holiday season approaches, PCBWay is thrilled to announce their Christmas & New Year Promotions! Whether you’re an engineer or an...
Replies
0
Views
731
  • Article
Bloody Hell! Wishing you a speedy recovery and hope (if) anyone else involved is ok. Ivan
    • Friendly
    • Like
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Article
Join us at electronica 2024 in Munich! Since 1964, electronica has been the premier event for technology enthusiasts and industry professionals...
    • Like
Replies
0
Views
972

Similar threads

We don't know exactly what this fitting is. Many can be safely rewired, as I've done with several chandeliers and elaborate wall lights over the...
Replies
10
Views
273
I’m trying to replace a gfci outlet which does not work in a bathroom at a relatives house which was just purchased. Circuit checker shows no...
Replies
0
Views
174

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

Electrical Goods - Electrical Tools - Brand Names Electrician Courses Green Electrical Goods PCB Way Electrical Goods - Electrical Tools - Brand Names Pushfit Wire Connectors Electric Underfloor Heating Electrician Courses
These Official Forum Sponsors May Provide Discounts to Regular Forum Members - If you would like to sponsor us then CLICK HERE and post a thread with who you are, and we'll send you some stats etc

YOUR Unread Posts

This website was designed, optimised and is hosted by untold.media Operating under the name Untold Media since 2001.
Back
Top