Hairdryer tripped the GFCI

[debodun]

When I plugged in my hand-held hairdryer yesterday, it tripped the circuit. It wasn't even turned on. What could have caused this?

 

[Nathan]

That GFCI might need replacing.

Edit: @debodun , did you get the other electrical problem resolved, or is this GFCI tripping part of it?

 

[Don M.]

It is quite likely that your hair dryer has an internal electrical short/problem. DO NOT try to use it, as if you do get it to run, it may over heat quickly and create a high potential for electrical shock, or overheating the house wiring, and even create a risk for a house fire. Far better to toss it, and buy a new one next time you go to the store. A new dryer is a minor...$20....expense, as opposed to the dangers/costs it might cost.

 

[CallMeKate]

Deb, was that hair dryer plugged into the same outlet/room where you had the two surges last week? Either way, if it was or wasn't, it's really nothing to ignore and take a risk over. That's too much of a coincidence to not be connected, and you seem to have an electrical issue in the house. Nothing to mess with.

 

[Wayne]

IT is a GFIC ground fault interrupter circuit. hey are an easy replacement normally just a screwdriver after turning off the ac to it.

 

[Murrmurr]

When I plugged in my hand-held hairdryer yesterday, it tripped the circuit. It wasn't even turned on. What could have caused this?

It was turned on.

Either that or G.F. See-Eye saw you comin' and said "Oh no you don't!" >tik<

 

[debodun]

Not on the same circuit as the computer.

 

[Murrmurr]

Deb, was that hair dryer plugged into the same outlet/room where you had the two surges last week? Either way, if it was or wasn't, it's really nothing to ignore and take a risk over. That's too much of a coincidence to not be connected, and you seem to have an electrical issue in the house. Nothing to mess with.

Unless it tripped the circuit to prevent an overload, in which case, it was doing its job.