Tripped circuit breakers are frustrating and stressful, especially if it seems like the furnace is the cause. If your breaker shuts off once and regular operation returns after you reset it, there is no sudden cause for unease. In this instance, an unrelated power surge is the most likely source.
However, you can’t neglect the issue if the breaker gets thrown over and over. This may happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces use electricity to run the blower motor and other pieces. Before you arrange furnace repair, think about the most common reasons your furnace could be blowing the circuit breaker and how you can avoid it.
1. Overworked Furnace
Does your furnace work for just a few minutes before flipping the breaker? This could imply poor airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents compels your furnace to work harder. The larger electrical draw can overload the system, strain the circuit andtrip the breaker. Here are some tips to restore consistent airflow and resolve the trouble:
- Replace the air filter.
- Open all air registers and make sure none are obstructed by furniture, curtains or rugs.
- Don’t place anything against the furnace or otherwise reduce airflow into it.
2. Overloaded Circuit
HVAC equipment is best used on a dedicated circuit, but this might not happen in older homes. Review the labels on your electrical panel to determine if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a temporary measure, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid running it while the furnace is working. A better, more ongoing solution is to have an electrician put in a dedicated circuit for your HVAC system.
3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault
Does your furnace trigger the circuit breaker right as it begins running? This may be evidence of an electrical issue in the furnace. An exposed wire might be shorting out the circuit when it reaches a neutral wire or causes a ground fault if it touches a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these issues can surge the electrical draw enough to trip the circuit. You’ll do best with an HVAC pro like Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air to find and resolve the problem.
4. Electrical Panel Issue
If you exclude any malfunctions with your furnace, the electrical panel might be the source. Loose connections or faulty breakers could lead to inconsistent performance. If you own an older residence, you might need to have the panel replaced if it’s obsolete, damaged or inadequately installed. In this situation, you need help from an electrician.
Your furnace may continue tripping the circuit breaker in spite of your efforts to remove the problem on your own. If this occurs, leave the furnace off and get in touch with Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air for help. Our HVAC Experts can help you identify the problem and recommend the required repair. We’re proud of our work, so we support it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more details about us, or to request furnace repair, call us at 210-404-4233 now.
*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.