Tripping Breakers


I have a musical fidelity KW500 that trips a 20 amp (dedicated curcuit/12 gauge wire/hospital receptacle) the instant the power switch is pushed. I have checked everything I can think of that could cause it (hookup is fine). Everything else about the system and circuit is unchanged and has worked for years. When it did turn on before it sounded great and played without tripping the breaker. Anybody else have this problem? If so what was it? Your help is appreciated. Chris.
kitdog
Are you sure that you did not add a lamp or some other electrical consumer to the circuit? I was having a similar problem until I put in dedicated lines. In another room every time my wife turned on a few lights, I threw the breaker because I was pulling to many amps.

Here is to dedicated lines and great music.
The breaker is a good choice. Also if you are using the "thin" style breakers, (these are the ones that fit two to a socket) they will work poorly. If it is a GFI type breaker they work poorly and die frequently. You may have to try more than one replacement to verify the breaker problem. When installing our spa the first two from the local Home center ran hot, emitted a stench and were down right scary. I had to go with one from an electrical distributor and it has worked properly. Beware of cheap junk.
Good luck, John
I agree with all of the comments on aging circuit breakers. I have both been there and done that. But I also have to add some potentially worse news. I have noticed occasions where a buss bar became burned and continued to be a problem after the breaker was replaced.

Definitely replace the breaker with the best one you can find but also take a good look at the buss bar. I am not sure what brands of breakers are best. For my old house I am just thankful when I can find one that is the right style. Good luck.
I am still investigating the issue. I really appreciate the advice everybody has given and time to post a response. Thanks, Chris.
Kitdog,
What make is the electrical panel? Aprox age of the branch circuit breaker that feeds your Amp? At first when the problem started, aprox, how many times did you reset the breaker before it would not hold anymore?
jim