Reasons Your AC is Tripping Your Circuit Breaker

Your air conditioner is a major appliance that works hard to cool your home or office during the steamy months of summer. If your air conditioner is tripping your circuit breaker, it’s important to find out why. Otherwise, you could be facing a serious electrical problem. Read on to learn some of the most common reasons why your AC might be tripping the breaker and how Allen Service in Fort Collins, CO can help!

Why Does Your AC Need a Circuit Breaker?

The circuit breaker is an important safety device that is designed to protect your home from electrical fires. The circuit breaker trips when there is an overload of electricity going to your AC unit. This prevents the AC unit from overheating and catching fire. If your AC unit does not have a circuit breaker, you should have one installed by a qualified electrician.

Your AC Unit is Too Big for Your Home

If your air conditioner is too large for your home, it will have to work harder to cool the space which can cause it to trip the circuit breaker.

Your Air Conditioner is Overloaded

An overloaded air conditioner can also cause the circuit breaker to trip. This usually happens when the air conditioner is turned on and off too frequently or when it’s left on for too long.

Your AC Unit is Overheating

If your AC unit is overheating, it can trip the circuit breaker as well. This is usually caused by a clogged filter or a dirty evaporator coil.

There’s a Problem with Your Electrical Wiring

If there’s a problem with your home’s electrical wiring, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip. This is usually caused by outdated or damaged wiring.

You Have a Short Circuit in Your AC Unit

A short circuit in your air conditioner can also cause the circuit breaker to trip. This is usually caused by a faulty capacitor or a damaged wire.

Your Circuit Breaker is Faulty

Sometimes the circuit breaker itself can be the problem with tripping your AC system. If it’s old or outdated, it may not be able to handle the load of your AC unit. In this case, you’ll need to have a new breaker installed by a professional.

You Have an HVAC Contractor That Isn’t Experienced or Certified

If you have an HVAC contractor that isn’t experienced or certified, they may not be able to properly install your air conditioner. This can cause the circuit breaker to trip.

Your Air Filter is Dirty

One of the most common reasons for an AC unit to trip a circuit breaker is a dirty air filter. When the filter gets clogged with dust and dirt, it restricts air flow and puts extra strain on the AC unit. This can cause the unit to overheat and trip the breaker.

Dirty Condenser Coils

Another possible reason for an AC unit to trip a circuit breaker is dirty condenser coils. The coils need to be clean for the unit to operate efficiently. When they’re dirty, it causes the unit to work harder, which can lead to overheating and a tripped breaker.

Broken Coil Fan

If the coil fan is broken, it won’t be able to properly cool the coils. This can cause the unit to overheat and trip the breaker.

The Compressor is “Hard Starting”

Sometimes an AC unit’s compressor will have difficulty starting up. This can also cause the unit to overheat and trip the breaker.

Loose Wiring & Aging A/C Parts

As your AC unit ages, the wiring and components can loosen and become damaged. This can cause a short circuit, which trips the breaker. If you notice any loose wiring or damaged parts, it’s best to have a professional repair or replace them.

Motor Has Shorted

If your AC’s motor has shorted, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip. This is usually due to a problem with the winding resistance. To fix this issue, you’ll need to have a professional replace the motor.

Compressor Is Grounded

If your AC compressor is grounded, it can trip the circuit breaker. This usually happens when there’s a problem with the insulation or grounding wire. To fix this issue, you’ll need to have a professional repair or replace the compressor.

Safeguard Your Investment: Don’t Run Your AC if it Keeps Tripping Your Breaker

If your AC unit is tripping your circuit breaker, it’s important to call a professional to diagnose and repair the problem. Running your AC with a tripped breaker can damage the unit and void your warranty.

While some of these issues can be resolved on your own, others will require the help of a professional contractor. If you’re unsure of what the problem is, it’s always best to call in a certified HVAC technician to inspect your system. Trying to fix the problem yourself could result in further damage to your AC unit or your home’s electrical system.

Why Choose Allen Service in Fort Collins, CO?

The hot summers in Fort Collins, Colorado can be brutal, and your air conditioning unit is crucial to keeping your home or office comfortable. When it’s time to repair or replace your AC unit, you want to choose a reputable and experienced company that will get the job done right. Allen Service has been serving the Fort Collins community for over 50 years, and our highly trained technicians are experts in AC repair and replacement. We offer a wide range of services to meet all your AC needs, and we’re dedicated to providing outstanding customer service. Contact us today to set up an appointment!