There’s nothing more frustrating than your air conditioner shutting off unexpectedly—especially on a hot Texas day. If your AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it’s not just an inconvenience; it could be a sign of a more significant issue that needs immediate attention. At Texas Air Authorities, we want to help you understand why this happens and what you can do about it.
Why Does Your AC Trip the Circuit Breaker?
A circuit breaker is a safety feature that shuts off power when it detects an electrical overload. If your AC is causing the breaker to trip repeatedly, here are some possible reasons:
1. Dirty Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder to cool your home. This extra strain can cause the unit to overheat, leading to excessive electrical draw and tripping the breaker.
What to do:
Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Ideally, you should change it every 1-3 months to keep your system running smoothly.
2. Dirty Condenser Coils
The outdoor condenser coils release heat from your home. When they are covered in dirt and debris, the AC has to work harder, which increases power consumption and can overload the circuit.
What to do:
Inspect the outdoor unit and clean the coils with a garden hose (on a gentle setting). For a deep cleaning, schedule professional maintenance.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels (Freon Leak)
If your system is low on refrigerant due to a leak, the compressor will overwork itself to cool your home, leading to excessive power usage and breaker trips.
What to do:
If you suspect a refrigerant leak (signs include weak airflow and longer cooling cycles), call a professional technician to inspect and recharge your system.
4. Faulty Capacitor
The capacitor helps your AC start up and keep running. If it’s malfunctioning, the compressor and fan may struggle to operate, drawing too much power and tripping the breaker.
What to do:
Listen for a clicking or humming noise when the AC tries to start. If you suspect a faulty capacitor, call an HVAC expert to replace it.
5. Short Circuit or Electrical Issue
Damaged or exposed wires in your AC unit can cause a short circuit, leading to breaker trips. This is a serious issue that can pose a fire hazard.
What to do:
Turn off your AC and call a licensed HVAC technician immediately. Never attempt electrical repairs yourself.
6. Compressor Issues
The compressor is the heart of your AC system. If it’s struggling due to wear and tear or an internal malfunction, it may draw too much power, causing the breaker to trip.
What to do:
If your AC is older and the compressor is failing, a repair or full system replacement may be necessary. An HVAC professional can assess the condition of your unit.
What Should You Do If Your AC Keeps Tripping the Breaker?
If your AC trips the breaker once, try resetting it after a few minutes. However, if it happens repeatedly, follow these steps:
- Turn off your AC to prevent further electrical issues.
- Check and replace the air filter if it’s dirty.
- Inspect the outdoor unit for dirt or debris and clean it.
- Avoid resetting the breaker multiple times—this could cause more damage.
- Call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the underlying problem.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance is key to preventing electrical issues. At Texas Air Authorities, we offer comprehensive HVAC services, including system inspections, tune-ups, and repairs. Our NATE-certified technicians can quickly identify and resolve any AC problems to keep your home cool and comfortable.
If your AC keeps tripping the breaker, don’t wait—contact Texas Air Authorities today for fast, reliable service!
Texas Air Authorities is the premier choice for HVAC services in Arlington. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Texas Air Authorities for all of your HVAC needs in Arlington.
