Having an electric furnace in your home can be a great source of comfort and convenience. However, electric furnaces can sometimes trip the breaker, leading to an interruption in heat and increased energy costs. Here are some of the most common reasons your electric furnace might trip your breaker.
Loose Wire Connections
If the wires connecting your furnace to the breaker box are loose, it can cause arcing or sparking and overload the circuit. This will result in your electric furnace tripping your breaker. It can also cause damage to the wiring and furnace, so it’s important to ensure all the wires are secure and properly connected. Hire a licensed electrician if you find any issues, as doing it yourself can result in more problems.
Short circuits
Similarly, short-circuiting occurs when unwanted current flows through an alternate path, often caused by aged wiring or a faulty connection. You will know if this is the case if your breaker trips every time you turn on your furnace. To prevent short circuits from occurring, look for any signs of damage or wear to the wiring and replace any components that may be faulty.
Dirty Filters
If your furnace filter isn’t regularly cleaned or replaced, it can become clogged with dust and debris. This not only reduces the efficiency of your furnace but it can also cause the motor to overheat and trip the breaker. To prevent this from happening, clean or replace your filters regularly to keep the air flowing smoothly through your furnace and reduce strain on the motor.
Overload Circuits
Your furnace requires a dedicated circuit to ensure that the electrical system isn’t overloaded with too many appliances. If the circuit overloads, your breaker will trip to prevent further damage. Ensure all other appliances are on separate circuits from your furnace and try to keep the circuit usage as low as possible. We’re AirCo Heating and Cooling, a professional HVAC service provider in Brandon, MS that can help you install, service, and maintain your heating and cooling systems. We also offer duct cleaning and indoor air quality solutions. Contact us at AirCo Heating and Cooling today for more information on our services.