You may occasionally have to go to the circuit breaker panel in your home to reset a tripped breaker. Some appliances can create power surges that trip breakers, although this should never be something that happens regularly.
Because your AC is one of the most powerful electrical appliances in your home (often the most powerful), it might trip the power breaker if it’s pushed for too long. However, if the AC is tripping the circuit breaker repeatedly, then it means something more serious is wrong. You may need to schedule air conditioning repair in Forsyth, GA. Below, we’ll look into why this might happen.
Common Reasons an AC Trips the Circuit Breaker
- Dirty air filters: When the air filters become clogged with dust and debris, the AC has to work harder to pull air through the system. This extra effort can overheat the unit and trip the breaker. Regularly changing your air filters every 1-3 months is a simple yet effective way to prevent this issue.
- Loss of refrigerant: Your AC relies on refrigerant to cool your home. If there’s a leak, the system can’t cool properly, causing it to run longer and harder. This added strain can cause the system to overheat and trip the breaker. Call professionals to fix this as soon as possible, since low refrigerant levels can eventually cause permanent damage to the compressor.
- Blocked condenser coils: The condenser coils in your outdoor unit release heat removed from your home. If these coils are dirty or blocked, the AC won’t be able to expel heat effectively, causing the system to overheat and potentially trip the breaker. Regular maintenance can ensure your coils remain clean and efficient.
- Electrical issues: Faulty wiring or a failing capacitor can create electrical problems that lead to breaker trips. These issues are hazardous and require immediate attention from a qualified HVAC technician to avoid potential fire risks.
- Overworked system: During extreme heat, your AC might run continuously to keep your home cool. This constant operation can cause the system to overheat and trip the breaker. You may need to replace the AC if it’s close to the end of its service life expectancy. Otherwise, raise the thermostat to take some of the strain off the unit.
What to Do When Your AC Trips the Breaker
- Reset the breaker: Start by resetting the breaker. If it trips again immediately, there’s likely a more significant issue that needs professional attention.
- Check the air filter: A dirty air filter can be an easy fix. Replace it if necessary and see if the problem persists.
- Inspect the outdoor unit: Ensure the outdoor unit is clear of debris and has adequate airflow. Trim any overgrown vegetation and clean the coils if needed.
- Call a professional: If the breaker continues to trip, it’s time to call in the experts. Premier Heating & Air offers comprehensive air conditioning repair in Forsyth, GA, and can quickly diagnose and resolve your AC issues.
Schedule Your AC Repair with Premier Heating & Air
Don’t let a malfunctioning AC disrupt your comfort. Premier Heating & Air has the team of trained technicians who can diagnose what’s wrong with your AC and then find the ideal solution. We’re ready to restore your cool home to you.