If your air conditioning unit trips the breaker, something is wrong. This is a signal, not just an inconvenience. It’s dangerous to ignore it because it can lead to bigger things like total system failure and/or electrical hazards. So, let’s find the problem.
1. Dirty Air Filter
Dirty air filters restrict airflow. As a result, your air conditioner must exert additional effort, which can eventually trip the breaker. Inspect your air filter right away. If it is dirty, replace it. It is that easy. Avoid the issue of a tripped breaker by inspecting the filter every month or so.
2. Low Refrigerant
Low refrigerant can also make your system work harder. When this happens, the compressor will increase the pressure. As a result, it can put so much stress on the unit that it effectively overheats the system, making the breaker trip. If you hear a hissing sound or feel warm air, contact a technician immediately – you may have a refrigerant leak.
3. Defective Capacitor or Motor
The capacitor provides the starting jolt for your AC system. Your system will overheat and/or draw excess power if it doesn’t work. Motors can overheat or draw excess current, too. Either way, that surge can cause a breaker to trip. An experienced professional can investigate and replace the failed part.
4. Dirty Condenser Coils
Your outdoor unit needs clean coils to release heat. Dirt captures heat and forces the unit to work harder. Other than exceeding the current the system draws (and tripping a breaker), it can overheat. Seasonal cleaning can prevent dirt buildup and help your AC unit run efficiently.
5. Electrical Short or Loose Wiring
Exposed or damaged wires create electrical shorts. Shorts pose a serious fire hazard. Shut the unit down if the breaker continues to trip after restarts and consult a professional. Never take chances with bad wiring.
6. Oversized or Undersized AC Unit
An AC unit that does not match the size of your space will also never operate to full efficiency. If it’s too big, it will shorten the cycle; if it’s too small, it will run constantly. Both scenarios strain the system and cause the AC to trip the breaker frequently. Sizing does matter.
7. Breaker Problems
Sometimes the breaker itself is the issue. If it is old, weak, or undersized, it can trip prematurely. An experienced technician can test for a faulty breaker and ultimately replace it.
8. Compressor Failure
The compressor is the heart of your AC. If it begins to fail, it may draw excessive current, causing the breaker to keep tripping. Signs of a failing compressor may include noise, cycling frequently, or blowing warm air.
What To Do If Your Air Conditioner Is Tripping The Breaker
Don’t just keep resetting the breaker. That is not a solution. If your air conditioner trips the breaker more than once or twice, your system must be checked. Running your system tripping a breaker could damage your system or your home’s electrical system.
Turn the unit off at the thermostat. Look for an obvious issue, such as a clogged filter or blocked vents. If you can’t find anything wrong, you must get help.
How GreenWorks AC can assist
GreenWorks AC is an HVAC company that you can trust! They have years of experience successfully diagnosing and repairing AC issues. They have seen the whole spectrum! Dirty coil, low refrigerant, bad motor? You name it, they have seen it and fixed it.
What are some ways they respond?
- Super Fast Scheduling: You can book for service online in a few clicks. No waiting weeks!
- Certified Technicians: Their team can manage complex electrical issues, refrigerant leaks, and full inspections!
- Upfront Pricing: They provide honest quotes before the work starts. Zero surprises.
- Preventative Maintenance Plans: They help prevent the problems that cause the AC to trip the breaker.
Most customers who book a tune-up avoid expensive repairs later. It’s easier to address problems early, rather than waiting until your system is not functioning at all!
Avoid Breaker Trips with Maintenance
Most instances of AC tripping the breaker can be avoided through regular maintenance. Here are a few things you can do:
- Change your filters every 1-2 months.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris.
- Remember to schedule a full system tune-up each Spring.
GreenWorks AC offers all of these services and more. Their team does not just fix the problem, but also shows you how to avoid that same problem the next time. GreenWorks AC is known for honest work, fast service, and no-nonsense repairs.
Conclusion
An AC tripping the breaker is not just an inconvenience, it’s a safety problem. It could be something as simple as a dirty filter or something as serious as an electrical short. The longer you wait, the more dangerous waiting becomes for you and your family.
GreenWorks AC is the company to call if you live in the Houston area.
They will diagnose the problem, clearly explain the issue to you, and fix the issue right the first time. Don’t guess – get it checked out by someone capable and competent.
Need help now? Visit GreenWorksAC.com to schedule a service. Stop flipping the breaker, and start fixing the issue.