[kipperfan]

So, do we have any appliance/electrical wizards out there? I am having a bit of an issue and need some help understanding what is happening, how I can properly diagnose the problem and what I should do next. About 2 months ago my stackable washer/dryer unit started to trip the breaker when they were both being used together for a decent period of time. I reset the breaker not really thinking much of it but then it happened again, and this time with less use. So I reset it again and this time it tripped quickly and with only the dryer running – there was also a “fishy” smell coming from the breaker box along with a weird buzzing noise. Understanding those were bad signs I have not attempted to reset the breaker since. From the reading I’ve done online it seems the problem could either be caused by some sort of short circuit/loose connection/other problem with the breaker box wiring itself or it could also be caused by a burnt out heating element or motor in the dryer which is causing the box to short circuit. Then, this morning, after never having any other electrical issues in the place since living there, my roommate tripped the breaker (a different one) in the washroom with only a single blow dryer plugged in.

So, I am wondering if anyone has any suggestions for me? I was starting to think the washer/dryer was the issue but to have another breaker trip this morning is starting to make me think it actually is an electrical issue. Should I take the cover off of the breaker box and start poking around (very carefully!) for signs of a loose connection or short circuit? Should I get a digital multimeter and test the dryer motor/heating element to make sure they aren’t the cause? Should I simply call an electrician to have him/her come take a look? If I do indeed call an electrician, does anyone have any idea what they usually charge hourly? I live in a condo, what are the chances this is something that would be covered by the condo corporation as opposed to by me personally as an owner?