Tripped circuit breakers are frustrating and worrisome, namely if it seems like the furnace is the source. If your breaker gets thrown once and average operation returns after you reset it, there is no sudden cause for concern. In this case, a surprise power surge is probably the source.
However, you can’t ignore the problem if the breaker flips again and again. This may happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces depend on electricity to power the blower motor and other parts. Before you request furnace repair, consider the most likely reasons your furnace would be tripping the circuit breaker and how you can prevent it.
1. Overworked Furnace
Does your furnace start for a brief time before tripping the breaker? This can be a result of poor airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents force your furnace to work harder. The larger electrical draw might overwork the system, strain the circuit andflip the breaker. Try these tips to restore normal airflow and resolve the problem:
- Change the air filter.
- Open all air registers and make certain none are obstructed by furniture, curtains or rugs.
- Don’t place anything against the furnace or otherwise impede airflow into it.
2. Overloaded Circuit
HVAC equipment does best on its own circuit, but this may not be the case in older houses. Review the labels on your electrical panel to find out if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a temporary resolution, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid using it while the furnace is in use. A smarter, more ongoing solution is to have an electrician create a new circuit for your HVAC system.
3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault
Does your furnace trip the circuit breaker right as it begins running? This may be evidence of an electrical issue within the furnace. An exposed wire might be shorting out the circuit when it brushes against a neutral wire or leads to a ground fault if it meets a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these issues can surge the electrical draw enough to trip the circuit. You’ll need an HVAC pro like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to identify and resolve the problem.
4. Electrical Panel Problem
If you exclude any problems with your furnace, the electrical panel might be to blame. Shaky connections or damaged breakers may lead to irregular performance. If you live in an older home, you might need to have the panel replaced if it’s too old, damaged or incorrectly installed. In this case, you need assistance from an electrician.
Your furnace could continue to trip the circuit breaker despite your efforts to remove the issue yourself. If this occurs, leave the furnace off and call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for support. Our HVAC Experts can help you diagnose the problem and recommend the needed repair. We’re confident in our work, so we back it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more information about us, or to arrange furnace repair, call us at 407-329-7661 right away.
*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.