Why does my HVAC keep tripping the circuit breaker?

For Alabama homeowners, dealing with a tripped circuit breaker isn’t just frustrating; it can also put unnecessary strain on your HVAC system and potentially lead to costly damage. To help you stay ahead of the problem, let’s explore some of the most common causes of HVAC circuit breakers tripping and what you can do about them.

Dirty Air Filter

Oftentimes, clogged air filters can trip the breaker. When filters become dirty, they restrict airflow, forcing the unit to work harder. Over time, this added strain can cause the unit to overheat and trip the breaker. To prevent this, homeowners should replace their air filters every 1 to 3 months, adjusting for factors like system usage, pets and indoor air quality.

Debris Around Your Outdoor AC Unit

If there’s debris around your outdoor unit, it can cause your system to trip the breaker. Leaves, twigs, dirt and other buildup can block airflow, making the unit work harder than necessary and potentially leading to overheating. Be sure to clear away any debris regularly and maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit for proper ventilation. It’s also a good idea to check that nothing is blocking the vents or coils on the unit itself. Keeping this area clean not only helps prevent breaker trips but also improves efficiency and extends the life of your HVAC system.

Leaky Ductwork

Leaky ductwork is a common issue that can cause your HVAC unit to trip the circuit breaker. When air escapes through leaks, the system has to work harder to keep your home at the desired temperature. This added strain can lead to overheating, which in turn may cause the breaker to trip. To prevent further damage and keep your system running efficiently, it’s important to have any leaks inspected and repaired by an HVAC technician.

Low Refrigerant Levels 

If your AC unit’s refrigerant levels are low, it can cause the air compressor to overwork itself, leading to overheating and eventually tripping the breaker. To prevent this, it’s important to have your refrigerant levels checked by a licensed HVAC technician. Attempting to handle refrigerant on your own can be dangerous and may even damage the system. A professional can safely inspect your unit, identify any leaks and recharge the refrigerant as needed to keep your system running efficiently and reliably.

Frozen Coils

Another common HVAC problem that can result in tripped circuit breakers is frozen coils. When your AC unit’s airflow is restricted, the evaporator coils can ice over. As the ice builds up, your system has to work harder to keep running, which puts extra strain on the electrical components and can cause the breaker to trip. Some reasons as to why your evaporator coils might be freezing include: 

• Dirty air filters
• Blocked vents
• Low refrigerant
• Fan issues

Faulty Capacitor 

Capacitors, which are like small batteries, store electricity and help ensure that the correct amount of energy is supplied to components inside the AC unit. Although capacitors are designed to last for many years, they can become faulty, which leads to inconsistent performance. Luckily, a licensed technician can detect when capacitors are failing and promptly replace them to prevent further issues with the HVAC system.

Dirty Sensors

Dirty sensors can interfere with your HVAC system’s ability to function properly and may even cause it to trip the breaker. Oftentimes, sensors are located in the AC unit, ductwork and thermostat. If debris accumulates on these sensors, it can make their readings inaccurate and interfere with normal operations. To help prevent this, it’s important to periodically clean the sensors on both the indoor and outdoor units of your system. Keeping them free of buildup ensures more accurate readings, reduces strain on the equipment and helps your system run more efficiently.

Need HVAC Maintenance or Repairs? Contact C&G Today!

Looking for experienced technicians who can take care of your HVAC system? C&G Heating & Air Conditioning has got you covered! Located in Smiths Station, we serve several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border, including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.

We repair, install and maintain residential HVAC systems. For a free estimate, call our team today at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services, including commercial HVAC maintenance, visit our website by clicking the link here.