Tripped circuit breakers are aggravating and troublesome, namely if it seems like the furnace is the culprit. If your breaker shuts off once and regular function returns after you reset it, there is no immediate cause for concern. In this situation, a surprise power surge is typically the cause.
However, you can’t avoid the situation if the breaker trips over and over. This can happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces need electricity to run the blower motor and other pieces. Before you request furnace repair, think about the most likely reasons your furnace would be blowing the circuit breaker and how you can stop it.
1. Overloaded Furnace
Does your furnace start for a short time before flipping the breaker? This could be a result of poor airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents require your furnace to work harder. The higher electrical draw might overload the system, strain the circuit andflip the breaker. Here are some tips to restore consistent airflow and resolve the issue:
- Replace the air filter.
- Open all air registers and ensure none are blocked by furniture, curtains or rugs.
- Don’t put anything against the furnace or otherwise restrict airflow into it.
2. Overworked Circuit
HVAC equipment is best used on a dedicated circuit, but this may not be the case in older homes. Find the labels on your electrical panel to learn if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a temporary precaution, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid using it while the furnace is on. A wiser, more lasting solution is to have an electrician install an individual circuit for your HVAC system.
3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault
Does your furnace trip the circuit breaker right as it begins running? This points to an electrical issue within the furnace. An exposed wire may 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 affect the electrical draw enough to trigger the circuit. You’ll do best with an HVAC specialist like Boehmers/Cronin Emery Home Services by Enercare to find and fix the issue.
4. Electrical Panel Problem
If you exclude any problems with your furnace, the electrical panel might be the source. Lax connections or damaged breakers could lead to inconsistent performance. If you live in an older residence, you could need to have the panel replaced if it’s too old, damaged or poorly installed. In this situation, you need the expertise of an electrician.
Your furnace might continue tripping the circuit breaker in spite of your efforts to remove the issue on your own. If this is the case, leave the furnace off and get in touch with Boehmers/Cronin Emery Home Services by Enercare for help. Our HVAC Experts can help you find 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 schedule furnace repair, reach us at 519-804-1617 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.