Air conditioning (AC) units are essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature in our homes, especially during the hot summer months. However, one common issue that many homeowners face is the AC tripping the circuit breaker. If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I stop my AC from tripping the breaker?” you’re not alone. This article will delve into the reasons behind this issue of why your circuit breaker keeps tripping and provide practical solutions. 

Understanding Your AC and Circuit Breaker

Your AC unit and circuit breaker are integral parts of your home’s electrical system. The air conditioning unit works to cool your home, while the circuit breaker protects your home from electrical overloads or short circuits. When the AC unit draws too much power, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip, shutting off the power to prevent damage or a potential fire hazard.

Common Reasons Why Your AC Trips the Breaker

Several factors can cause your AC to trip the breaker:

  1. Dirty Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your air conditioning system to work harder and draw more power, which can trip the breaker.
  2. Overheated Compressor: The compressor is the heart of your AC unit. If it overheats, it can draw more power and trip the AC circuit breaker.
  3. Short Circuit: A short circuit in the air conditioner unit can cause a sudden surge of electricity, tripping the breaker.

How to Prevent Your AC from Tripping the Breaker

Here are some steps you can take to prevent your AC from tripping the breaker:

  1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filter: If your AC system keeps tripping the circuit breaker, try cleaning or replacing your air filter. Doing this regularly can ensure proper airflow and prevent your AC unit from working too hard.
  2. Maintain Your AC Unit: Regular maintenance of your AC unit, including cleaning the coils and checking the refrigerant levels, can help it run more efficiently and reduce the likelihood of it tripping your circuit breaker.
  3. Check for Short Circuits: If a breaker keeps tripping, it could be due to a short circuit. Have a professional inspect your AC unit for any signs of short circuits.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried these steps and your AC continues to trip the breaker, it’s time to call a professional. An HVAC technician can diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your AC unit is running efficiently and safely. An issue with a breaker may be a problem you leave to experience.

In conclusion, while it can be frustrating when your AC trips the breaker, understanding the reasons behind it and taking preventative measures can help solve the issue. Regular maintenance and prompt action at the first sign of trouble can help keep your AC running smoothly and prevent breaker trips. Remember, when in doubt about reasons your air conditioner keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it’s always best to consult with an AC technician. Whether you need help with your indoor unit, outdoor unit or if your AC keeps tripping the breaker, a Bob’s Repair AC tech is standing by for any AC repair.