wobblewash
New member
- Joined
- Jan 24, 2026
- Messages
- 2
This is my mum's Parnall D59 here in the UK (no date, but I think it's late 1950s/60s)
Recently it blew its fuse (13A one in the plug). Replacing the fuse and powering it on H3 (highest temperature) it started to spin up but after about half a second it blew again. We use an RCD at the socket but that hasn't tripped anytime (there isn't one in the house fuse box)
I'm a relative novice when it comes to electrics and see everything as an opportunity to learn (but I do know to be v. careful!) As I start to tackle this machine I'd appreciate any repair advice or head starts you might be able to give me.
The RCD doesn't trip, I think that means nothing is shorting to earth or current going anywhere it shouldn't be. Blowing the fuse would mean some component in the machine has died in a manner that it has no resistance.
The machine is relatively clear inside; I can identify a junction box, heating element, and a motor which drives the fan and drum. No signs of any burned cables or damage.
The fuse/RCD behaviour above might be enough for an expert to diagnose the fault.
For now my plan is to look at the junction box, check internals for health and no shorts (though this machine hasn't been moved in decades, and always left on H3). Then perhaps disconnect either the heating element to decide if that or the motor is the guity party. Any pointers appreciated! Thanks
Recently it blew its fuse (13A one in the plug). Replacing the fuse and powering it on H3 (highest temperature) it started to spin up but after about half a second it blew again. We use an RCD at the socket but that hasn't tripped anytime (there isn't one in the house fuse box)
I'm a relative novice when it comes to electrics and see everything as an opportunity to learn (but I do know to be v. careful!) As I start to tackle this machine I'd appreciate any repair advice or head starts you might be able to give me.
The RCD doesn't trip, I think that means nothing is shorting to earth or current going anywhere it shouldn't be. Blowing the fuse would mean some component in the machine has died in a manner that it has no resistance.
The machine is relatively clear inside; I can identify a junction box, heating element, and a motor which drives the fan and drum. No signs of any burned cables or damage.
The fuse/RCD behaviour above might be enough for an expert to diagnose the fault.
For now my plan is to look at the junction box, check internals for health and no shorts (though this machine hasn't been moved in decades, and always left on H3). Then perhaps disconnect either the heating element to decide if that or the motor is the guity party. Any pointers appreciated! Thanks
