Why Does My Furnace Keep Tripping The Breaker?

A furnace that consistently trips your home's circuit breaker is more than just an inconvenience; it can signal underlying issues that may compromise your heating system's performance and your household's safety.

Understanding the potential causes of this problem is essential for homeowners in Lake County, Ohio, to ensure a warm and secure living environment during the colder months.

Common Causes of a Furnace Tripping the Circuit Breaker:

1. 1. Overworked Blower Motor: The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. When airflow is restricted—often due to dirty air filters or blocked vents—the motor works harder to maintain the desired temperature. This increased effort can cause the motor to draw more electrical current than the circuit can handle, leading to a tripped breaker.

   2. Electrical Short Circuits or Ground Faults: Damaged or exposed wiring within the furnace can result in short circuits or ground faults. These occur when a hot wire touches a neutral wire or grounded surface, causing a surge in electrical current that trips the breaker as a safety precaution.

   3. Overloaded Shared Circuits: Ideally, a furnace should be on its own dedicated electrical circuit. In some homes, especially older ones, the furnace shares a circuit with other appliances. Simultaneous operation of multiple devices can overload the circuit, causing the breaker to trip.

   4. Clogged Air Filters: A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow into the furnace, causing the system to overheat and the blower motor to overexert itself. This not only diminishes heating efficiency but can also lead to increased electrical consumption, potentially tripping the circuit breaker.

   5. Aging or Faulty Circuit Breaker: Sometimes, the issue isn't with the furnace but with the electrical panel itself. An aging or faulty breaker may trip under normal electrical loads. In such cases, replacing the breaker or upgrading the electrical panel may be necessary.

DIY Troubleshooting Steps:

• • Replace Air Filters: Regularly inspect and replace your furnace's air filter, typically every 1-3 months, to ensure proper airflow and reduce strain on the blower motor.

  • Ensure Unobstructed Vents: Check that all supply and return vents are open and free from obstructions like furniture or drapes, promoting efficient airflow throughout your home.

  • Limit Circuit Load: If your furnace shares a circuit with other appliances, try to minimize the use of those devices simultaneously to prevent overloading the circuit.

When to Call a Professional For Furnace Repair

If your furnace continues to trip the circuit breaker after performing these troubleshooting steps, or if you notice unusual noises, odors, or performance issues, it's important to contact a certified HVAC technician.

Handling electrical components can be hazardous without proper training. At Lakeshore Heating & Cooling, our experienced professionals are equipped to diagnose and repair complex furnace problems safely and efficiently.

Our Service Areas:

We proudly offer furnace repair and gas furnace repair services throughout Lake County, Ohio, including:

• • Eastlake
  • Willowick
  • Willoughby
  • Mentor
  • Painesville
  • Wickliffe
  • Euclid
  • Fairport Harbor
  • Madison
  • Mentor-on-the-Lake
  • Willoughby Hills

As a family-owned and locally operated business, we are committed to providing the best in HVAC services to our community. Our 5-star rating reflects our dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Ensure Safe and Reliable Heating Today!

Don't let a tripping circuit breaker compromise your home's comfort and safety. At Lakeshore Heating & Cooling, we embody our slogan, "Where Comfort Meets Kindness," in every service we provide. Contact us today at (440) 944-0072 or fill out our online form to schedule a service. Experience the exceptional service that has earned us a 5-star reputation in our community.