Why Does My Heat Pump Keep Tripping the Breaker in Bon Air, VA?

Even if you put your heat pump on its own breaker within your junction box in your home in Bon Air, VA, there are still a few things that can happen to make it trip. Read further to learn about reasons that your heat pump might make the breaker trip.

Dirt in the Air Filter

A dirty air filter makes your heat pump work harder because of reduced airflow. When the heat pump works harder, it draws more power. If it draws too much, then the breaker will trip as a safety measure.

Wiring Issues

Loose wires in your heat pump can create short circuits, which will also trip the breaker for safety reasons. The wiring of the breaker itself could be fraying or otherwise wearing out, particularly in older homes where the electrical panel provides less than 100 amps of power. You’ll need an expert for these repairs.

A Power Surge

It’s uncommon, but a power surge through your home’s electrical system could cause breakers to trip. Any time that the current on the connection to the heat pump exceeds the amperage rating of the circuit, the breaker will trip. Most of the time, a surge will come from your home’s connection to the utility or a short circuit in the heat pump, but it could also happen from lightning strikes or other power surges.

A Bad Compressor

One thing that can happen with an old or worn compressor is a hard start. Compressors naturally draw power to start up, but a hard start is where the compressor has to draw more power than usual to get going. That draw of extra power could cause the breaker to trip.

The big advantage of having us fix your heat pump is our 100% satisfaction guarantee, which includes same-day service. When you need heat pump repairs or preventative maintenance, call Americool Heating & Cooling Inc. for an appointment.

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