Summer is on the way, and we all know how important it is to have a working air conditioning unit. However, if your AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it can be frustrating and even dangerous if left unchecked. In this blog, Fritts Heating & Air will discuss some common reasons why your AC may be tripping the circuit breaker and what you can do about it.
Main Reasons The Circuit Breaker Is Tripping
Dirty Air Filter
One of the most common reasons for an AC to trip the circuit breaker is due to a dirty air filter. When the air filter is dirty, it can restrict airflow, causing the AC unit to work harder than it needs to. This can lead to overheating and, eventually, a tripped circuit breaker. Luckily, this is an easy fix that you can do yourself. Simply turn off the AC unit, remove the old air filter, and replace it with a new one. Doing this at least once every three months would ensure proper airflow and prevent future issues.
Refrigerant Leak
Another reason why your AC may be tripping the circuit breaker is due to a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is responsible for cooling the air in your home, and if there is a leak, the AC unit will have to work harder to cool the air, eventually leading to a tripped circuit breaker. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s essential to call an HVAC company near you to come and inspect your AC unit. They will be able to determine the source of the leak and fix it to prevent further damage.
Faulty Capacitor
If your AC unit trips the circuit breaker immediately after turning it on, it could be due to a faulty capacitor. The capacitor is responsible for providing the initial boost of power to start the compressor, and if it’s not working correctly, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip. Again, this is not a DIY fix and should be left to a professional AC repair technician.
Electrical Issue
Lastly, if your AC unit trips the circuit breaker intermittently, it could be due to an electrical issue. This could be caused by a faulty electrical connection or a short circuit in the wiring. These issues can be dangerous and should only be handled by a licensed electrician or HVAC technician.
HVAC Maintenance
Now that we’ve discussed some common reasons why your AC unit may be tripping the circuit breaker, it’s essential to discuss the importance of HVAC maintenance. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues from happening in the first place and ensure that your AC unit is running at peak efficiency.
Inspection
HVAC maintenance typically includes thoroughly inspecting your AC unit, cleaning or replacing the air filter, checking and refilling refrigerant levels, and testing all electrical connections. It would be best to have your AC unit serviced at least once a year, preferably in the spring before the hot summer months. This will ensure that your AC unit is in good working order and can prevent future breakdowns or safety issues.
Fritts Heating & Air
If you’re experiencing issues with your AC unit, it’s important to call an HVAC company near you for help. Attempting to fix the issue yourself can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your AC unit. An experienced AC repair technician can diagnose the issue and provide a safe and effective solution.
If you’re experiencing issues with your AC unit, Fritts Heating & Air is here to help. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians can diagnose the issue and provide a safe and effective solution. We offer various AC repair services, from cleaning and replacing air filters to fixing refrigerant leaks and faulty capacitors. No matter the issue, we have the expertise and equipment to get your AC unit up and running again.
