Circuit breakers exist to protect your HVAC system by shutting down all power flow in the event of a power surge. However, the heat pump in your Sulphur, LA, home can sometimes trigger your circuit breaker and prevent the whole system from functioning. Here are some reasons why your heat pump might trigger circuit breakers and how to keep this from happening.
Dirty Air Filters
Over time, as dust and other pollutants accumulate on your AC system’s filters, the filters will become dirty. When this happens, air can’t circulate properly through your home, which will cause your heat pump to work harder to compensate for the problem. If this happens, the heat pump will consume more power and possibly trip your circuit breaker.
The good news about this issue is that it’s one that you can take care of on your own. Make sure to regularly change your system’s air filters before they get too dirty. We recommend doing this at least once every three months.
Malfunctioning Compressor
The compressor is a vital part of your AC system that typically sits outside and compresses the refrigerant in your system, moving it from the evaporator to the condenser coils. Old compressors usually suffer from one of two problems: either the capacitor malfunctions and they fail to start or wiring hits the metal casing and causes a short.
Any of these problems might potentially trip your circuit breaker — the former because it causes the compressor and heat pump to use more power and the latter because of the short. You will require the services of a trained AC repair technician to resolve this issue.
Low Amount of Refrigerant
Another problem is that your system might simply be low on refrigerant. If your system leaks refrigerant, it will struggle to both heat and cool your home, causing the heat pump to work harder and possibly trip the circuit breaker.
There is any number of reasons why your heat pump might inadvertently trip your circuit breaker. While you might be able to resolve some of these issues on your own, others will require professional assistance. To make sure that your HVAC system is performing properly, call Burnworth’s AC for service in Sulphur, LA today.
Image provided by iStock
