Auto Electrician Advice Needed

[puternut]

As I am of advanced years - well 50 plus 20% VAT - I recently invested in an electrical air pump for my tyres. The unit plugs into the cigarette lighter/ power output socket and inflates them to a preset pressure and then turn off. The lead supplied was a little short so also got an extension for the lead from Maplins.

First time I used it the radio type fuse in the extension blew straight away. I cannot read what the rating of the fuse is but I need to replace it with one of a similar physical size too.

Can anyone advise me of the size of fuse I need to replace it. Halfords appear to do a variety of rated fuses.

(example http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_217233_langId_-1_categoryId_255227)

Any advice appreciated.

[frugalfred]

There should be a plate/label on the compressor stating voltage (12v) and wattage.
Divide wattage by 12 to get the amperes the device uses, this will give you an idea of what fuse to fit. The fuse needs to be several amps over this figure, e.g. if the device draws 3 amps, fit a 5 amp fuse.

[TWR]

It sounds to me as if the Unit is Faulty Puternut, I would take it back ( I presume Maplins?????) & get a replacement, have them check it before you leave the store.

[puternut]

Thanks guys.

Will do as you advise ff.
Can't return it as it was bought a while ago and no receipt!!

[TWR]

Hi, try the unit on its own without the Extension cable, it may be that that's faulty.