Tripping Breakers

Hi,

Does the problem occur repeatedly after you reset the breaker? Does the fuse in the amp blow? Often, any device which uses a torroidal transformer in the power supply will have a current inrush that momentarily exceeds the rating of the breaker (I'm assuming the KW500 uses one, though I can't confirm this). Usually, most circuit breakers can handle the momentary current inrush, but as circuit breakers age, they become more finnicky (I wish I knew why). I recently had to replace a 20A breaker in my kitchen circuit, since every time the heating element on the espresso machine cycled, it would blow the breaker. I'd say if the fuse isn't blowing on the amp, or if after resetting the circuit breaker the amp works, then the culprit is most likely the circuit breaker itself. If the fuse is blowing, I'd say there's an issue with the amp, and it must be sent for service. Good luck.

-Richard

I had a similar problem some years ago and it was, in fact, the breaker that had failed. It's cheap and easy to replace the breaker so that's certainly something you can isolate as a potential cause of problem.

Try plugging the amp into another circuit. If the same thing happens it may be the amp or power cord. If it powers up successfully and your breaker doesn't trip then the breaker on the circuit you usually use should probably be replaced. This is not unusual as breakers age, as most people above have pointed out.

Are you sure that you did not add a lamp or some other electrical consumer to the circuit? I was having a similar problem until I put in dedicated lines. In another room every time my wife turned on a few lights, I threw the breaker because I was pulling to many amps.

Here is to dedicated lines and great music.

The breaker is a good choice. Also if you are using the "thin" style breakers, (these are the ones that fit two to a socket) they will work poorly. If it is a GFI type breaker they work poorly and die frequently. You may have to try more than one replacement to verify the breaker problem. When installing our spa the first two from the local Home center ran hot, emitted a stench and were down right scary. I had to go with one from an electrical distributor and it has worked properly. Beware of cheap junk.
Good luck, John