Tripped circuit breakers are annoying and stressful, especially if it seems like the furnace is the cause. If your breaker gets thrown once and average performance resumes after you reset it, there is no sudden cause for alarm. In this instance, an unforeseen power surge is the most likely reason.
However, you can’t avoid the situation if the breaker flips multiple times. This may happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces depend on electricity to operate the blower motor and other pieces. Before you request furnace repair, think about the most likely reasons your furnace might be tripping the circuit breaker and how you can handle it.
1. Overworked Furnace
Does your furnace start for a brief time before throwing the breaker? This may be a result of poor airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents force your furnace to work harder. The higher electrical draw could overwork the system, strain the circuit andthrow the breaker. Try these tips to restore proper airflow and resolve the problem:
- Swap out the air filter.
- Open all air registers and make sure none are obstructed by furniture, curtains or rugs.
- Don’t lean anything against the furnace or otherwise block airflow into it.
2. Full Circuit
HVAC equipment does best on its own circuit, but this might not occur in older residences. Examine the labels on your electrical panel to find out if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a brief precaution, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid running it while the furnace is running. A better, more permanent solution is to have an electrician install a dedicated circuit for your HVAC system.
3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault
Does your furnace trigger the circuit breaker as soon as it starts? This could be a result of an electrical issue in the furnace. An exposed wire could be shorting out the circuit when it touches a neutral wire or creates a ground fault if it touches a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these problems can increase the electrical draw enough to flip the circuit. You’ll need an HVAC Expert like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to diagnose and resolve the trouble.
4. Electrical Panel Problem
If you exclude any problems with your furnace, the electrical panel could be the source. Loose connections or faulty breakers might lead to irregular performance. If you have an older residence, you might need to have the panel replaced if it’s obsolete, damaged or poorly installed. In this instance, you need help from an electrician.
Your furnace may continue tripping the circuit breaker despite your efforts to remove the situation on your own. If this occurs, leave the furnace off and reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for help. Our HVAC Experts can help you troubleshoot the situation and suggest the needed repair. We’re take pride in our service, so we back it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more info about us, or to schedule furnace repair, reach us at 239-908-6991 today.
*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.