Is Your AC Tripping the Circuit Breaker?

An overloaded circuit is the most common reason for a circuit breaker to trip. When you have a problem like this, consider contacting Air Pros about AC repair, or similar services. After all, we may determine that your air conditioner is actually what’s causing this to happen.

Here’s a closer look at how to tell if your cooling system may be tripping your circuit breaker and what can be done about this problem.

Check Your AC’s Energy Usage

A quick and easy way to tell if your air conditioning unit is tripping your circuit breaker is to see how many amps and volts it uses when running. Look for the metal label with the manufacturer’s name and serial number. Just below this info is your system’s voltage requirement. For instance, you have a breaker that’s designed to handle 20 amps and your cooling unit draws 30 amps, the result will be constant tripping. Nonetheless, do not just keep resetting the breaker. Keep in mind that constant tripping can harm your home’s electrical system and be a fire risk.

Reasons for AC-Related Circuit Breaker Tripping

In certain cases, there are certain things that can be resolved with AC repair or maintenance that are causing your circuit breaker to trip. For example, a dirty filter can cause your unit’s blower to work harder. In turn, it may need to draw more electricity to push air into your home. In addition, having a dirty or clogged outside unit may force your system to run more often and use more electricity.

How to Resolve This Problem

At times, the problem is with the circuit breaker itself. Wires might be loose, for instance, or the breaker may need replaced. If it’s been determined that the breaker is fine, this is when it’s time to see if it’s something going on with your air conditioning system that needs attention.

Possible solutions include:

Replacing or repairing your unit’s motor if the motor is the problem
Fixing or replacing wires connected to various parts of your cooling unit that are damaged or worn
Asking one of our Air Pros technicians about a “hard start kit,” which provides an extra jolt for your unit’s compressor to help it work correctly

Other times, it may be necessary to replace the compressor or clean the refrigerant lines to correct issues with an air conditioner that’s drawing too much power. If the problem is an air conditioning unit that’s simply too powerful for your home’s circuit breaker, you may be advised to consider AC replacement. On the plus side, a correctly sized air conditioning unit will ultimately be more energy-efficient, which will cool your home better!

Get in Touch With Our Experts

Before you start exploring your AC replacement or repair options related to a tripped circuit breaker, reach out to Air Pros. We will let you know if your cooling system is the likely culprit, and recommend an affordable and sensible solution if this is the case. Consult Air Pros today by calling us or filling out the online form.

AirPros provides AC repair in Atlanta, GAas well as in other parts of Florida, Georgia, Texas, Colorado, and Washington.