How to Change a Television Fuse

A fuse in a television does not commonly blow. If your residence does not have a stable electrical system fluctuations in the power can cause a fuse to give out. If you have a power surge and no surge suppressor a blown fuse can possibly protect the rest of the television set, but only if the fuse blows quickly enough. Replacing the fuse in a television in not necessarily difficult but safety in doing so is extremely important.

Safety first

The first thing you should do is to check to be sure that the television is actually receiving power and that a circuit breaker or main electrical fuse has not blown. Once you are sure the unit is receiving power, unplug it. You really do not want to work on the television when it is plugged in. You must also be extremely careful around all internal components in your television. Older televisions run on high voltage through internal transformers. The television also stores the high voltage and it does not go away just because the set has been unplugged. In a cathode-ray tube style television this voltage can range up to 50,000 volts. Plasma and LCD differ in internal voltages but it is better to be safe than sorry.

Have your manual on hand:

If you do not have a manual, download a diagram and other instructions from the manufacturer's website if at all possible. The instructions should give you the location of the fuse as well as the type of fuse required so that you will be able to purchase the correct one. Do not install a fuse that is rated higher than recommended. Doing so will cause damage to the rest of the components inside the television. Your manual or other instructions should also give you a guide as to the high voltage areas of the television to avoid.

Replacing the fuse:

Move your television to an area where you can comfortably access the back. Remove the back cover with either a flat or Phillips screwdriver. Locate the fuse. Using a fuse puller is the best way to remove the old fuse. You can attempt to pry the old fuse out but this may cause the fuse to break. Before you install your new fuse check the fuse holder to be sure it is clean so that your new fuse will make good contact. Once you have replaced the fuse, re-install the back cover before plugging the set back in. Hopefully replacing the fuse will have solved your problem and you can now enjoy your set.

The best step to take to prevent a blown fuse is operating your television or any voltage sensitive device off of a surge suppressor. If your fuse continues to blow after replacement you may have a line voltage problem that you can check with a multi-meter or you have a problem with the television itself. If the problem is in the television and you are not experienced in television repairs it is highly recommended to have a professional make the repairs for you.