Frustration builds when your heat pump suddenly stops working, and annoyance increases even more when you realize it tripped the breaker again. But with some detective work, you can figure this out and restore comfort in your Pace, FL home. Let’s look at common reasons this happens and how it can be fixed.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter restricts airflow over the coils of the heat pump. This can cause the motor to overheat, draw more current and trip the breaker. Change your filter every one to three months to keep problems at bay.
Failing Capacitor
The capacitor helps the motor start and run properly. If it fails, the motor may draw too much power and trip the breaker. You’ll likely hear a humming sound from the unit if this is the problem.
Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant levels force the heat pump to work harder, and this increases energy consumption. This extra strain can overload the circuit and trip the breaker. If you suspect a leak, call an HVAC maintenance professional to repair it and recharge the system.
Never attempt to deal with refrigerant yourself because it is very toxic and can have serious health consequences. In addition, refrigerant is incredibly flammable.
Overloaded Circuit
Your heat pump might share a circuit with other appliances. Running too many things at once can overload the circuit and cause the breaker to trip.
Try unplugging some of those other devices. If the problem continues, consider having a dedicated circuit installed for your heat pump.
If you notice that your system keeps tripping the breaker every time it runs, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Reach out to us at Lunsford Air Conditioning & Heating to troubleshoot your heat pump and restore the comfort in your home.
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