Expert: Bob Sponaugle - 11/7/2009

Question
We have had a kiln running in our garage for about 6 years now and just recently it started popping the circuit. I figured the breaker was getting old so I replaced it. That night we ran it and about 3 hours we lost power to the whole house. It didn't trip the new breaker it tripped the power to the whole house and fried the plug. Why did this happen? Could it be something in the kiln? In a panic I grabbed my fire extinguisher and started to remove the plate to make sure there wasn't a fire in the wall. Everything was all right thank God. Now we want to get things going again but want to make sure its safe. The chord to the kiln suffered a little surface damage. I still have enough good wire running to the panel which is probably only 3 feet total. Is there any thing else I need to know about? Do I need to up the breaker amps? The kiln is 50 amps and I have been using a 50 amp breaker.  

Answer
Hi.

Sometimes, either the male or female plug does not make good connection, and the electricity arcs and causes heat.  So, I would definitely replace both plugs.  However, it could be something wrong with the kiln that is causing it to draw more current than it should.

Your best bet for safety might be to get an electrician who can inspect everything and measure how much the kiln is drawing.

I hope this helps.

Bob