Circuit breakers are tripped by an electrical fault. This could be short circuit, drain to earth, or overheating (typically a result of a short circuit). Circuit breakers are designed to protect the device they are in circuit with. But more importantly to us they stop the said device from harming it's environment - either by overheating and causing a fire or by giving the operator an electric shock.

Circuit breakers in domestic environments are normally referred to as MCBs (miniature circuit breakers) as they deal with low voltage currents (under 1000v) or RCBs (remote circuit breakers).

MCBs are rated to suit the circuit they are attached to, lighting circuits have a lower trip threshold than an oven, hob, shower or other high power device.

So, what may be happening with a hob that is tripping a circuit breaker?

This is potentially life-threatening stuff and you will need a qualified electrician to check the following:

• That the MCB is correctly rated.That there is no fault in the hob, or it's installation.
• That the circuit the hob is connected to is designed for the load.
• That there is no fault in the circuit.

Respectable electricians will often offer to inspect free of charge, even if there is a small charge, better this than to live with the potential danger.

If you are in rented accommodation tell the landlord immediately, he has a responsibility to you and also will want to protect his property.