4 Reasons Why Your Furnace is Tripping Your Circuit Breaker and How to Solve It

Tripped circuit breakers are irritating and troublesome, particularly if it seems like the furnace is the source. If your breaker shuts off once and usual operation returns after you reset it, there is no immediate cause for distress. In this case, an unforeseen power surge is the most likely source. 

However, you can’t avoid the problem if the breaker flips multiple times. This can happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces count on electricity to operate the blower motor and other components. Before you request furnace repair, think about the most likely reasons your furnace might be tripping the circuit breaker and how you can stop it. 

1. Overloaded Furnace 

Does your furnace run for a short time before flipping the breaker? This might stem from reduced airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents compels your furnace to work harder. The higher electrical draw may overheat the system, strain the circuit and flip the breaker. Try these tips to restore normal airflow and resolve the problem: 

  • Replace the air filter. 
  • Open all air registers and ensure none are obstructed by furniture, curtains or rugs. 
  • Don’t lean anything against the furnace or otherwise reduce airflow into it. 

2. Overloaded Circuit 

HVAC equipment should be on its own circuit, but this may not be the case in older residences. Examine the labels on your electrical panel to determine 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 better, more permanent solution is to have an electrician put in an individual circuit for your HVAC system. 

3. Short Circuit or Ground Fault 

Does your furnace flip the circuit breaker as soon as it starts? This is frequently an electrical issue in the furnace. An exposed wire may be shorting out the circuit when it brushes against a neutral wire or creates a ground fault if it comes into contact with a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these problems can surge the electrical draw enough to trigger the circuit. You’ll need an HVAC specialist like Stevenson Service Experts to find and resolve the problem. 

4. Electrical Panel Issue 

If you eliminate any problems with your furnace, the electrical panel might be the culprit. Shaky connections or damaged breakers can lead to erratic performance. If you own an older residence, you could need to have the panel replaced if it’s obsolete, damaged or inadequately installed. In this case, you need help from an electrician. 

Your furnace might continue to trip the circuit breaker in spite of your efforts to repair the problem on your own. If this is the case, leave the furnace off and contact Stevenson Service Experts for help. Our HVAC Experts can help you diagnose the issue and suggest the required repair. We’re confident in our repair, so we support it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more details about us, or to arrange furnace repair, reach us at 614-334-3192 right away. 

*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.