Tripped circuit breakers are aggravating and stressful, particularly if it seems like the furnace is the source. If your breaker shuts off once and regular operation resumes after you reset it, there is no sudden cause for unease. In this case, an unrelated power surge is the most likely source.
However, you can’t neglect the situation if the breaker flips repeatedly. This may happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces count on electricity to run the blower motor and other pieces. Before you schedule furnace repair, double check the most common reasons your furnace might be throwing the circuit breaker and how you can prevent it.
1. Overheated Furnace
Does your furnace run for a short time before tripping the breaker? This might be a result of poor airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents force your furnace to work harder. The higher electrical draw may overwork the system, strain the circuit andtrip the breaker. Here are some tips to restore unimpeded airflow and take care of the problem:
- Replace the air filter.
- Open all air registers and make sure none are blocked by furniture, curtains or rugs.
- Don’t lean anything against the furnace or otherwise restrict airflow into it.
2. Overworked Circuit
HVAC equipment is best used on its own circuit, but this may not be the case in older residences. Examine the labels on your electrical panel to find out if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a brief measure, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid operating it while the furnace is running. A wiser, more permanent solution is to have an electrician install a new circuit for your HVAC system.
3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault
Does your furnace flip the circuit breaker immediately upon startup? This points to an electrical malfunction in the furnace. An exposed wire could be shorting out the circuit when it reaches a neutral wire or causes a ground fault if it comes into contact with a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these problems can increase the electrical draw enough to flip the circuit. You’ll need an HVAC specialist like Broad Ripple Service Experts to identify and resolve the problem.
4. Electrical Panel Problem
If you exclude any problems with your furnace, the electrical panel might be the culprit. Poor connections or damaged breakers will sometimes lead to irregular performance. If you own an older residence, you might need to have the panel replaced if it’s outdated, damaged or inadequately installed. In this case, you need help from an electrician.
Your furnace could keep tripping the circuit breaker regardless of your efforts to repair the problem on your own. If this occurs, leave the furnace off and get in touch with Broad Ripple Service Experts for help. Our HVAC Experts can help you diagnose the problem and advise the required repair. We’re take pride in our service, so we support it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more details about us, or to schedule furnace repair, give us a call at 317-527-0271 today.
*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.