Balanced Power Technology BPT3.5 running very hot


Hi, I just bought a used Balanced Power Technology BPT3.5 isolation transformer, and it runs very hot.  The case has no air vents on the body, just a metal case.  When I touch the side, it is hot but I can stay touching it.  But if I put my hand on the case right on top of the toroidal transformer, it is so hot that I can only touch it for maybe 10 seconds.  It gets hot even it is on idle, meaning I am not listening to music.  It is the “regular” model, not Signature, with a 20A transformer.  
 

To other BPT users, is this normal?  Does your unit get this hot while idling?

Is this safe to use?  My second question, since it gets so hot, does it mean it is drawing power even there is no load?

Thanks.

 

 

 

 

gte357s

@gte357s

 No, this is not normal for this unit.

In December 2008 I purchased a new BPT 3,5 Signature +. It has been in continuous 24/7 use all of these years without a single problem or issue. It doesn’t even get warm to the touch. So yes, something is amiss with your particular unit. This excellent balanced AC isolation transformer/conditioner has been one of my best purchases ever!!

Charles

@charles1dad thanks for the reply, although not a very good news for me.

 

I will do a test, I wonder if it is because of the PS Audio Power Plant. My set up is this:

wall outlet -> BPT 3.5 -> PS Audio PPP -> my equipment.

my PPP also remains on all the time. So, I wonder if the PPP is drawing power that make it so hot …. The output voltage of the BPT is ok, stable at 121V.  There is also no smell or hum.  Music also sounds good from it.  so, everything seems working properly except it is very hot.

 

I have no doubt that the music sounds good given the utilization of balanced AC power. Running hot as you describe is definitely indicative of a problem. Yes, try it without the power plant connection.

Charles