Your washing machine is most likely tripping the RCD due to a earth leakage fault — water ingress, a failing heating element, or a faulty motor are the most common causes. Start by unplugging the machine and resetting the RCD. If it holds without the machine plugged in, the fault lies in the appliance itself. Do not continue using it until it has been inspected. If the RCD trips with nothing plugged in, call a qualified electrician immediately, as the fault may be in the wiring.
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Why Is My Washing Machine Tripping the RCD?
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a safety switch fitted in your consumer unit (fusebox) that detects tiny electrical leaks to earth. When your washing machine causes it to trip, it means the appliance — or the circuit it's on — is allowing a small amount of current to flow where it shouldn't. This is a protection mechanism working correctly, and you should never ignore or bypass it.
Most Common Causes
Faulty heating element — The most frequent culprit. Elements can crack or corrode, allowing water contact with live parts, which creates an earth leakage current.
Water ingress to the motor or control board — Leaks inside the drum or door seal can allow water onto electrical components.
Worn carbon brushes — In older machines, degraded motor brushes can cause arcing and leakage.
Damaged power cable or plug — A frayed flex or loose connection can trigger an RCD trip.
Faulty door interlock or pump — Secondary components can also develop insulation breakdown over time.
What You Can Safely Check Yourself
1. Unplug the washing machine from the socket.
2. Reset the RCD — if it stays on with the machine unplugged, the fault is almost certainly in the appliance.
3. Inspect the plug and cable for visible damage, burn marks, or melting.
4. Check for obvious water leaks around or under the machine.
5. Try the machine on a different socket on a different circuit — if it trips that RCD too, the machine is definitely faulty.
What You Should NOT Do
Do not tape the RCD in the 'on' position — this is dangerous and illegal.
Do not continue using the machine if it repeatedly trips the RCD.
Do not open the machine yourself to inspect internal electrics unless you are qualified.
When to Call a Professional
Call a Part P registered electrician if:
The RCD trips even with nothing plugged in
Multiple appliances on the same circuit cause trips
You notice burning smells, scorch marks, or flickering lights
For the washing machine itself, contact a Gas Safe or appliance-registered repair engineer (such as a Which? Trusted Trader) to carry out a proper insulation and element test.