Understanding Why Your AC Trips the Breaker Every Time
Is your AC unit tripping breaker when you turn it on? This is a direct implication of your system pulling more electricity than the circuit can handle. And, this happens when one or the other component does not work properly or experiences some kind of electrical fault.
At first, you might find it a casual problem, but it can lead to serious issues in the long run. When your air conditioner keeps shutting off on its own, do not ignore it: it is a serious warning sign. You need to find and fix the root cause, both for your comfort and safety. Today, we are going to do the same in this blog. So, let’s start!
Is It Safe to Keep Resetting the Breaker?
Most of you might find it tempting to just flip the switch and move on when the AC trips. But how long would you keep on doing this? And, it is not even a future-proof solution.
First of all, you need to understand why the AC trips breaker immediately. It is doing so to protect your indoors from an electrical overload. Every time you find it flipping, the AC unit is drawing too much power than is actually needed.
If you ignore this issue, the wires inside the walls of the area can get overheated. Not only this, but sudden tripping can also damage your AC compressor permanently, and there is also a chance of electrical fires.
So overall, if you are resetting the breaker again and again, it’s not only inconvenient but also increases the safety risks at your place. That’s why it’s very crucial to identify this major red flag and start troubleshooting.
Top Reasons Your AC Unit Keeps Tripping the Breaker
Now, let’s focus on understanding the major reasons why your air conditioner keeps shutting off.
1. Dirty Air Filter
If the unit has a clogged air filter, it restricts the airflow. Ultimately, the AC is not able to cool the area properly. And, this extra strain overheats the compressor, and the system keeps flipping.
What’s the solution to it?
Simply, keep on checking your air filter monthly and replace it every time you find it dirty. This approach would save you in the long run from hefty costs that go into fixing bigger problems later on. For more information, you can also refer to our AC troubleshooting checklist.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coil or Blocked Indoor Unit
Because of poor airflow or low refrigerant levels, there is a chance that the evaporator coil of the system might freeze. And when the air conditioner tries to run with a frozen coil, it overloads the compressor and the breaker trips.
But do not worry, there is a solution to this as well.
In such a situation, turn off the AC and let the coil defrost on its own. Then, you would have to check for any possible airflow obstacles. You can also take the help of a professional technician to inspect refrigerant levels.
3. Faulty or Failing AC Capacitor
The capacitor is responsible for starting the compressor and fan motors. If it does not work properly, the AC unit tries to pull more power than needed, and ultimately, it leads to repeated shutting off.
To solve this problem, first of all, you need to be aware of the signs of an improper AC capacitor. For example, if it shows clicking noise, humming, or delayed startup, it is failing at its core to perform well. Here, you can call a technician to test and replace the capacitor if required.
4. Short Circuit or Loose Wiring in the System
Is your area having loose wires or damaged insulation? These factors can cause electrical shorts and ultimately lead to blowing the AC fuse to prevent fire or damage.
In such a circumstance, if you smell burning or feel heat near the panel, turn the AC off right away and get professional help immediately.
5. AC Compressor Drawing Too Much Power
One of the top reasons for an air conditioner tripping circuit breaker is the unit struggling to turn on when there is some internal damage.
During this situation, it is considered ideal to get in touch with a technician. They may recommend installing a hard start kit or replacing the compressor if it is not in a condition to be repaired.
6. Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils
Is your AC condenser covered in dirt and debris? It is not allowing the system to release heat properly. And as a result, it is overheating and flipping the breaker every time you turn it on.
To solve this, keep the outdoor portion clean.
7. Oversized Breaker or Wrong Fuse Rating
Many times, the breaker size does not match the power requirements of your air conditioner. This can also result in an overload and cause the breaker to blow.
It can be solved by contacting a licensed electrician who will verify if your AC breaker rating is under the specs of the unit. You can read more about electrical sizing in our post on oversized AC unit symptoms.
8. Faulty Breaker
In many situations, it is found that the actual fault is with the breaker, not the AC unit. If it malfunctions, a skilled technician can help you by testing the breaker and replacing it if required.
Does This Happen Only When It’s Really Hot Outside?
When we talk about what causes AC breakers to trip, we often don’t consider seasonal aspects. However, in reality, they directly impact the condition of the electrical equipment, particularly an air conditioner.
Is your unit flipping again and again during the summer? If yes, then hot weather is putting extra strain on the AC system, making it draw more electricity than usual. You need to understand that when external temperatures are higher, the AC has to work harder to cool the indoors. Due to this, the compressor or even the fan motor overheats.
And if the airflow is restricted or the component is dirty, it can worsen the situation even more. In many cases, the heat not only strains the AC but also affects the complete electrical panel. To avoid overloads and lower your electric bills, follow these energy efficiency tips for summer cooling—they’ll help your AC run more smoothly even during peak heat.
When to Call an HVAC Professional (And What to Expect)?
Did you clean the air filter completely and check for airflow issues? Have you also reset the system once and looked for any external faults? After doing all these, if the breaker still flips continuously, you need professional guidance.
Here are some of the signs that you shouldn’t ignore about your AC unit:
- The air conditioner circuit breaker tripping instantly when you start the system
- A burning smell is coming from the unit
- Strange sounds while the AC runs
- Ice buildup on the evaporator coil
- You have already reset the breaker a lot of times, as it keeps happening
In all these situations, a certified HVAC professional can help you by:
- Testing the capacitor, compressor, and fan motors
- Inspecting for electrical shorts or loose wiring
- Checking refrigerant levels and looking for signs of a frozen coil
- Cleaning the condenser coils if airflow is blocked
- Ensuring that your breaker and electrical panel match the AC’s requirements
Need help fast? Learn more about our AC repair services.
Pro Tips to Prevent Your Air Conditioner from Tripping Circuit Breakers
Once you sort the flipping issues of the unit, it’s important to make sure that it does not happen again. For the same, you need to consider the following:
- Change Your Air Filter Every 1-2 Months: With a clean filter, the system does not overwork, and there is a proper airflow. This aspect also prevents many other common causes of the AC unit tripping repeatedly.
- Schedule Annual AC Tune-Ups: It is equally important to go for professional maintenance timely. The skilled technicians catch minor issues before they become bigger roadblocks and disrupt the air conditioner badly.
- Keep the Outdoor Condenser Unit Clear: Always maintain the AC by keeping it clean and hosing off the coils whenever needed.
- Install a Surge Protector or Soft Starter: If your AC compressor trips breaker, a soft starter helps by reducing the initial power surge of the unit.
- Make Sure Your Electrical Panel is Up to Cod: At times, when the issue is with the breaker itself, not the air conditioner, an electrician helps by keeping the panel at the right amperage and ensuring secure connections.
Conclusion
Now that you understand why does air conditioner trip breaker, it is clear that it is a major red flag that you cannot afford to ignore. First of all, it becomes your duty to check for any external faults or dirt on the AC unit. When you are done with troubleshooting the basics at your end, and if the system still flips the breaker, it’s best to call a licensed HVAC technician. They will come to your place and inspect your system thoroughly to prevent any further damage.
