The thermal fuse in the unit most probably has a high failure rate. The unit comes with a 169 degree C 10 amp fuse. The most common replacement is the same tempature, but 15 amp rating.
To repair you will need a crimping tool to install the fuse. More importantly you will need a triwing security screw driver to remove two screws, and a philips screw driver to remove the remaing screws.
Be gentle on the steam lines when you have the unit apart. Mine developed a small leak on the steam output line that I have as yet to fix.
Be sure to clamp the fuse as you found it, to be sure the heat activates the fuse as it should.
If you have a tester to measure the ohmic resistance across the disconnected AC plug, you can prove to yourself the circuit is open (the most common failure) before you disassemble the unit. Once the unit is open you can test the fuse and the heating element. An open heating element is probably not repairable.
If there is any delay between diagnosing the problem and replacing the fuse, you should reassemble the unit before storing it to protect the wiring and hose connections from mechanical stress while you wait for parts.
Mark, July 2006
