Tripped circuit breakers are irritating and worrisome, namely if it seems like the furnace is the source. If your breaker trips once and typical performance starts after you reset it, there is no abrupt cause for distress. In this case, a surprise power surge is typically the source.
However, you can’t neglect the problem if the breaker flips repeatedly. This may happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces rely on electricity to operate the blower motor and other parts. Before you request furnace repair, double check the most typical reasons your furnace may be throwing the circuit breaker and how you can prevent it.
1. Overworked Furnace
Does your furnace work for just a few minutes before throwing the breaker? This could point to poor airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents force your furnace to work harder. The resulting electrical draw may overload the system, strain the circuit andthrow the breaker. Consider the following tips to restore normal airflow and take care of the issue:
- Change the air filter.
- Open all air registers and make certain none are obstructed by furniture, curtains or rugs.
- Don’t lean anything against the furnace or otherwise restrict airflow into it.
2. Overloaded Circuit
HVAC equipment should be on a lone circuit, but this might not happen in older residences. Examine the labels on your electrical panel to determine if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a brief resolution, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid using it while the furnace is in use. A smarter, more lasting solution is to have an electrician install a new circuit for your HVAC system.
3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault
Does your furnace trip the circuit breaker as soon as it starts? This is frequently an electrical issue in the furnace. An exposed wire could be shorting out the circuit when it touches a neutral wire or creates a ground fault if it touches a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these issues can increase the electrical draw enough to trigger the circuit. You’ll do best with an HVAC specialist like Jack Nelson Service Experts to diagnose and resolve the trouble.
4. Electrical Panel Trouble
If you exclude any malfunctions with your furnace, the electrical panel might be the culprit. Shaky connections or damaged breakers might lead to inconsistent performance. If you own an older home, you might need to have the panel replaced if it’s too old, damaged or inadequately installed. In this case, you need the expertise of an electrician.
Your furnace may continue to trip the circuit breaker in spite of your efforts to resolve the issue by yourself. If this happens, leave the furnace off and get in touch with Jack Nelson Service Experts for support. Our HVAC Experts can help you identify the issue and suggest the needed repair. We’re confident in our repair, so we stand behind it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more info about us, or to schedule furnace repair, reach us at 918-212-8927 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.