Failed uth.

[Pezz]

Reading your post Pezz with your great description my guess is you have a failed Triac in your UTH. I have never dissected a UTH but i have to believe a Triac or other current limiting device is used in them to control current. A dimmer switch uses the same principle except you vary the current of the variable resistor. When a Triac fails, it can cease all current flow. In your case you have the beginnings of a toaster allowing too much current flow. Toast anyone? LOL. Great catch!!!! Cut the cord off that thing and put it in the trash. Your idea of a dimmer switch on that thing....please don't. You have a failed circuit and the dimmer switch is no fix for the failed Triac even though it quite possibly would work. No such thing as shortcuts when it comes to electricity.

Already trashed. I think this goes to show the crucial essentialness of a thermostat. If it was unregulated i could have had a burnt snake.

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