4 Reasons Why Your Furnace is Throwing Your Circuit Breaker and How to Repair It

Tripped circuit breakers are annoying and worrisome, namely if it seems like the furnace is the source. If your breaker shuts off once and typical function returns after you reset it, there is no sudden cause for alarm. In this instance, an unforeseen power surge is probably the source. 

However, you can’t neglect the issue if the breaker gets thrown over and over. This may happen with both electric and gas furnaces. After all, even gas-fired furnaces utilize electricity to power the blower motor and other parts. Before you arrange furnace repair, review the most common reasons your furnace may be throwing the circuit breaker and how you can avoid it. 

1. Overworked Furnace 

Does your furnace work for just a few minutes before flipping the breaker? This can stem from weak airflow. A dirty filter or closed air vents require your furnace to work harder. The higher electrical draw can overwork the system, strain the circuit and throw the breaker. Consider the following tips to restore consistent airflow and resolve the issue: 

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

2. Overworked Circuit 

HVAC equipment does best on its own circuit, but this might not happen in older residences. Review the labels on your electrical panel to learn if another appliance shares a circuit with your furnace. As a brief resolution, you can unplug the secondary item or avoid running it while the furnace is on. A better, more lasting solution is to have an electrician put in a new 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 malfunction inside the furnace. An exposed wire might be shorting out the circuit when it brushes against a neutral wire or causes a ground fault if it touches a grounded wire or metal object. Either of these things can affect the electrical draw enough to trigger the circuit. You’ll want an HVAC pro like Calverley Service Experts to identify and fix the issue. 

4. Electrical Panel Issue 

If you eliminate any issues with your furnace, the electrical panel could be the culprit. Shaky connections or damaged breakers can lead to inconsistent performance. If you live in an older house, you may need to have the panel replaced if it’s too old, damaged or incorrectly installed. In this instance, you need help from an electrician. 

Your furnace could continue tripping the circuit breaker in spite of your efforts to repair the issue on your own. If this occurs, leave the furnace off and get in touch with Calverley Service Experts for support. Our HVAC Experts can help you diagnose the issue and advise the needed repair. We’re proud of our repair, so we support it with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more details about us, or to arrange furnace repair, call us at 817-380-5647 now. 

*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.