Why Your Heat Pump Keeps Tripping the Breaker and How to Fix It
Finding that your heat pump has tripped the circuit breaker can be frustrating, especially if it keeps happening repeatedly. But don't worry - in most cases, this issue can be prevented with some simple maintenance and troubleshooting.
What Causes a Heat Pump to Trip the Breaker?
There are several typical culprits behind a tripping heat pump breaker:
Dirty Air Filter
One of the most common reasons a heat pump keeps tripping the circuit breaker is a dirty or clogged air filter. The air filter removes dust, allergens, and debris as air circulates through your home's HVAC system. But over time, the filter can become filled with buildup, restricting airflow.
This forces the heat pump to work much harder and run longer than necessary to keep your home heated or cooled. The increased strain leads to higher power consumption, eventually overloading and tripping the circuit breaker.
Outdoor Unit Issues
Outdoor heat pumps have a condenser and coils that can also get filled with debris like leaves, dirt, and other gunk. Just like a dirty filter, this buildup blocks proper airflow, making the heat pump labor excessively to maintain your desired indoor temperature.
As the heat pump struggles to compensate, it consumes more electrical power. This overloads the circuit and causes the breaker to trip.
Electrical Problems
Faulty wiring, electrical shorts, and worn-out or improperly rated circuit breakers can also be the culprit behind frequent heat pump breaker tripping. These types of electrical problems affect the amount of power being drawn and can overload the circuit.
It's important to note that underlying electrical issues may impact other appliances and systems beyond just the heat pump. You'll want to get these inspected by an electrician.
Dirty Condenser Coils
In addition to debris buildup outside, accumulated dirt, dust, and particles can also stick to the condenser coils inside your heat pump. Located just behind the air filter, these coils absorb heat as refrigerant passes through them.
When the condenser coils get clogged with debris, airflow again becomes restricted. This forces the heat pump to run longer and harder to provide heating or cooling. The increased workload can overload the electrical circuit and trip the breaker.
Blocked Air Vents
For efficient operation, air needs to flow freely into and out of the heat pump system. Blocked air supply vents or returns prevent proper airflow. Just like other restrictions, this makes the heat pump work excessively hard to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
Furniture placed against vents, piled up debris, and closed registers are common causes of blocked airflow. As the heat pump struggles to compensate, it will draw more electrical power, potentially tripping the breaker.
Heat Pump Motor Problems
Issues with the heat pump motor can also lead to circuit breaker tripping. Motors contain bearings that can become rusty or accumulate debris. This friction forces the motor to work harder to turn the heat pump's compressor and blower.
The added effort lowers overall system performance and efficiency. To maintain desired temperatures, the heat pump has to run longer and consume more power than a healthy system. The increased electrical load can trip the breaker.
Signs Your Heat Pump Has An Issue
Frequent circuit breaker tripping is a clear sign something is wrong with your heat pump. But there are a few other clues that can indicate a problem:
Heat Pump Running Constantly
If you notice your heat pump running non-stop but still struggling to keep the temperature comfortable, it likely has an underlying issue. Restricted airflow, refrigerant leaks, and other problems force it to work overtime.
Higher Electricity Bills
An inefficient heat pump will consume significantly more power. Compare bills from previous years to watch for surging energy costs. Just a 20% increase can indicate your heat pump needs service.
Unusual Noises
Listen for odd sounds like banging, scraping, loud humming, or squealing coming from the indoor air handler or outdoor unit. This may signal a problem with the fan, motor, or refrigerant flow.
Dangers of Ignoring a Tripping Breaker
It's crucial not to ignore a tripping heat pump breaker and avoid investigating the cause. Frequent breaker trips can lead to several serious consequences:
System Overheating & Damage
Restricted airflow causes strain and overheating. Ignoring this can lead to permanent damage like burning out the heat pump motor. This requires expensive repairs or full unit replacement.
Electrical & Fire Hazards
Electrical arcing occurs when too much current flows through a weak point, generating extreme heat. In worst cases, this can cause fires. Faulty electrical components must be addressed quickly.
Costly Repairs Needed
Putting off troubleshooting a tripping breaker allows underlying issues to worsen. Small problems can evolve into complete system failure, requiring full heat pump replacement. Stay on top of problems before they become catastrophic.
Cleaning the Air Filter
If you suspect a dirty, clogged filter is the culprit, replacing or cleaning it is the first step. Here's how:
Locate and Access the Filter
Filters are typically located in the air handler unit inside your home. Check your heat pump manual for exact placement. Open the access panel to get to the filter slot.
Remove and Inspect Old Filter
Carefully slide out the old filter, inspecting it for debris buildup. Hold it up to the light to see how much light passes through. denser areas indicate clogs. Discard disposable filters.
Clean or Replace Filter
For reusable filters, use a hose or sink to rinse away dirt. Vacuum if needed. Or simply install a new filter of the same size.
Install New Filter in Correct Direction
Slide in the clean filter with the airflow arrow pointing towards the blower motor. Close up the access panel. Date the filter as a reminder to check monthly.
Use Proper Filter Size & MERV Rating
Using the wrong filter size blocks airflow. Choose the dimensions recommended for your unit. The MERV rating (1-16 scale) indicates effectiveness. MERV 8-12 works best for most homes.
Clearing Debris from Outdoor Unit
Follow these steps to clear away stuck debris from an outdoor condenser:
Carefully Remove Large Debris
Use your hands or a soft brush to gently dislodge leaves, sticks, or other debris stuck to the unit or wrapped around condenser coils.
Use a Soft Brush and Vacuum
For dirt stuck between coils or smaller debris in the condenser, use a soft brush to gently loosen and disturb it. Then vacuum up anything dislodged.
Straighten Bent Fins
Use a "fin comb" tool to gently straighten any condenser fins bent out of shape by debris. This helps maximize airflow.
Keep Area Around Unit Clear
Trim back bushes and plants near the condenser so debris doesn't collect. Use landscaping techniques like gravel or pavers to discourage weed growth.
Checking Electrical Issues
Improper wiring and worn breakers are another common cause of tripping. Here's how to investigate potential problems:
Inspect Wires & Connections
Examine the condition of all wires leading to your outdoor and indoor heat pump units. Look for cracking, loose connections, or signs of overheating. Tighten any loose wire nuts or terminal screws.
Test Circuit Breaker
Use a multimeter tool to check your heat pump's circuit breaker for proper continuity and voltage. Replace it if faulty or undersized for your equipment.
Check for Shorts in Wiring
Electrical shorts occur when wires make an abnormal connection. Use a multimeter to test for shorts between individual wires as well as from wires to ground. Repair any issues found.
Consider a Panel Upgrade
If your electrical panel is outdated or operating near full capacity already, tripping may occur simply due to an overload on the panel. Consider upgrading to a new 200 amp panel.
Cleaning Condenser Coils
To maintain efficient heat transfer, the condenser coils inside the heat pump should be professionally cleaned annually. Here's the process:
Turn Off Power to the Unit
Locate the disconnect switch near the heat pump and turn off power to avoid electrical hazards and blower damage during cleaning.
Access the Indoor Condenser Coils
Remove the air filter and use a screwdriver to take off the coil access panel. This exposed the coils for cleaning.
Use Pressure Washer or Spray Cleaner
Special condenser cleaning solutions dissolve stuck debris when sprayed on the coils. Use a pressure washer or spray bottle to apply the cleaner.
Straighten Any Damaged Coil Fins
Use a fin comb tool to gently straighten any bent condenser fins to maximize airflow. Take care not to damage them further.
Improve Drainage Near Unit
Ensure condensation can properly drain from the coils to prevent water pooling that blocks airflow. Install drain pans if needed.
Unblocking Air Vents
For proper airflow through the ductwork, make sure to clear any blockages at vent openings. Follow these tips:
Locate All Vents in Home
Note the location of air supply and return vents both inside your home and on the exterior. Returns pull air back to the heat pump.
Remove Blocking Objects
If furniture, rugs, or other items are covering vents, move them aside to keep airpaths open. Never intentionally block vents.
Clean Dust & Debris from Vents
Use a vacuum with brush attachment to gently clean dust, pet hair, cobwebs, and other debris from vent openings throughout the home.
Heat Pump Maintenance Tips
Staying on top of routine maintenance is the best way to prevent heat pump breaker tripping. Follow these best practices:
Replace Air Filter Monthly
Clogged filters are a leading cause of problems. Mark your calendar to change filters each month during heavy usage seasons.
Semi-Annual Outdoor Unit Cleaning
Clear debris from the outdoor condenser before summer and winter seasons when usage increases. Hire a pro for deep cleaning.
Annual Professional Maintenance
Technicians can spot issues through detailed inspections and diagnostic testing. Have your heat pump serviced every year.
Keep Outdoor Unit Clear
Trim plants back from the condenser and use landscaping techniques to prevent leaves, mulch and other debris buildup.
Consider Ductwork Cleaning
Built up dust and particles in your home's ducts can hinder airflow over time. Schedule professional duct cleaning if needed.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY maintenance can solve many heat pump issues, it's import to call in an HVAC technician for certain situations:
Breaker Trips Again After Resetting
If the circuit trips again shortly after being reset, stop resetting it. The heat pump has an underlying problem needing diagnosis by a pro.
For Any Detected Electrical Issues
Don't attempt to service electrical components like breakers, wiring and motors yourself. Hire a qualified electrician or HVAC company.
To Access Condenser Coils
The condenser coils require specialized tools and cleaners. Have an HVAC company perform this annual maintenance task.
When Unsure of Exact Cause
Technicians have specialized tools to thoroughly diagnose problems. If you can't pinpoint the issue, call a professional.
Preventing Future Breaker Tripping
While occasional tripping can happen, you can take steps to prevent chronic heat pump breaker issues:
Stick to Maintenance Schedule
Stay diligent about routine filter changes, cleaning, and annual check-ups to catch problems early before they worsen.
Have a Professional Diagnostic
Even if you don't experience frequent tripping, have an HVAC pro do a complete system inspection each year.
Upgrade Electrical Panel if Needed
If your breaker frequently trips due to an overloaded panel, investing in an upgrade now can solve chronic issues.
Careful landscaping and debris cleanup around the outdoor condenser will prevent airflow restrictions that lead to problems.
By following a diligent maintenance schedule and addressing any tripping issues promptly, you can enjoy consistent, trouble-free comfort from your heat pump for years to come.