When temperatures reach the high 80s in Northeast Ohio, many homeowners crank up their AC to escape the heat and enjoy the comfort of their homes. That’s why an AC breaker that keeps tripping is a major frustration. If you find yourself making the trek to your electrical panel often to reset your system, there could be a bigger issue at play. Tripped breakers are a safety precaution that prevent electrical overloads, which means it’s important to get to the bottom of your AC problem to find a lasting solution.
In this article, the HVAC experts at Blind & Sons discuss the top reasons that an AC may continuously trip its breaker, along with the right solutions for each to restore your system to proper performance.
Dirty Air Filters
Your AC can overwork and overheat when airflow is restricted. That’s why one of the top reasons for tripped breakers is dirty air filters. The system shuts down when the blower motor or compressor is drawing too much power to prevent electrical damage. If you’re struggling with these issues, replace your filters and see if it solves the problem. Plus, always remember to replace filters every 1-3 months and schedule routine AC maintenance.
Low Refrigerant
The refrigerant in your AC system is responsible for removing heat from your home. If the levels are long, it can cause your AC to run longer and harder, resulting in a compressor that overheats. Since only a licensed HVAC technician can safely handle refrigerant, call a professional to check your levels and fix any leaks.
Frozen Coils
Evaporator coils can freeze for a variety of reasons including low refrigerant, dirty coils, or faulty blower motors. When they freeze, airflow is blocked and the compressor will become strained and draw too much current. Homeowners can thaw coils by turning off the system, but if they quickly re-freeze, it’s best to call a professional for a proper diagnosis.
Electrical Shorts
One of the more dangerous reasons your system may trip the breaker is due to electrical shorts like faulty wiring or frayed insulation, as sudden surges of electricity can lead to shock or fires. If you suspect an electrical issue, call a licensed electrician for wiring repairs.
Faulty Capacitors
When your system’s capacitors fail, the compressor and fan motors may not start properly and will draw too much power. Trust a professional to test and replace capacitors to eliminate the issue, as well as check for any related motor damage.
Undersized Breaker
Not all breakers are built the same. If yours is rated for less amperage than your AC requires, it will frequently trip because it is drawing more current than it can handle. Trust an electrician to upgrade your breaker if you believe this is the issue.
Schedule AC Repair
At Blind & Sons, we’re the go-to expert for safe, reliable AC diagnostics and repair. Our team is here to get to the bottom of why your system is frequently tripping and can help you avoid system damage or electrical hazards with prompt repairs. Don’t ignore the problem. Instead, turn off your AC and call our team for a thorough inspection and superior repairs.
Call Blind & Sons today to schedule AC repairs in the Northeast Ohio region.
