Why Your Heat Pump Keeps Tripping the Circuit Breaker

If your heat pump is constantly tripping the circuit breaker, it can be a major inconvenience, especially during extreme weather when you rely on your heating and cooling system the most.

HVAC.com explains why your heat pump keeps tripping the breaker and offers solutions to fix the issue fast, so you can restore comfort to your home.

What Is a Circuit Breaker for a Heat Pump?

The circuit breaker in your electrical panel acts as a safety switch for your heat pump, protecting it from power surges or electrical issues that could cause damage or even fires. If the system detects an overload, it trips to cut off power.

Since heat pumps use a lot of electricity, most modern units have their own dedicated circuit breaker in the home’s electrical panel. This ensures that if something goes wrong, only the heat pump is affected and not other electrical systems.

If the heat pump’s breaker keeps tripping, it’s a clear sign that something needs fixing to avoid bigger repairs, safety risks, or comfort problems.

Common Reasons Why Your Heat Pump Trips the Circuit Breaker

Overloaded Circuit

One of the main reasons your heat pump trips the breaker is an overloaded circuit. This happens when the unit draws more power than the circuit can handle, often because it’s working harder than usual in extreme temperatures. If the circuit can’t handle the extra load, it trips to avoid overheating or fire.

Dirty or Clogged Air Filter

A dirty air filter can block airflow, forcing your heat pump to work harder and run longer to cool or heat your home. This added strain can trip the breaker. Changing your air filter regularly helps prevent overheating.

Electrical Wiring Issues

If there’s loose or damaged wiring in the heat pump, it can cause short circuits or power interruptions, tripping the breaker to protect both the system and your home. Since wiring problems can be dangerous, it’s best to have a professional take a look.

Faulty Capacitor

A faulty capacitor can prevent the heat pump’s compressor or fan motor from starting properly. If the motor struggles to start, it draws more power than usual, causing the breaker to trip. A pro will need to replace the faulty capacitor.

Frozen Coils

Frozen evaporator coils force your heat pump to work harder than normal to keep up with your temperature setting, which can trip the breaker. This can happen because of low refrigerant, poor airflow, or faulty defrost cycles.

Worn-Out or Faulty Breaker

Sometimes the issue isn’t with the heat pump but the breaker itself. Over time, breakers wear out or malfunction and trip easily. If your breaker is old or faulty, it may trip even when there’s no overload. A licensed electrician can replace the breaker for you.

Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak can cause a heat pump to trip the circuit breaker, though it’s less common than some of the other issues. When refrigerant levels drop, the system has to work harder to maintain your desired temperature, which can lead to overheating and a tripped breaker.

What to Do When Your Heat Pump Trips the Circuit Breaker

If your heat pump keeps tripping the circuit breaker, start by turning the system off to avoid further damage. Then, consider trying these DIY steps to rule out simple issues before calling a technician:

• Reset the Breaker: Try flipping the breaker off and then back on. If it trips again, there’s likely a more complex issue, like a faulty capacitor or wiring problem.
• Check the Air Filter: If the air filter is dirty or clogged, clean or replace it to improve airflow and prevent overheating. Check your filter once a month and change it every 1-3 months depending on its condition.
• Look for Damage: Check for any loose or damaged wires, and inspect key components like the motor, fan blades, or electrical connections.
• Inspect the Outdoor Unit: Look for ice or debris around the outdoor unit that could block airflow. If you see any buildup, remove it carefully.
• Check for Airflow Obstructions: Make sure no vents are blocked by furniture or carpets.
• Check for Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant can cause overheating and trip the breaker. If the system is running longer than usual or not cooling/heating properly, a refrigerant leak might be the problem. A technician will need to check and fix it.

When to Call a Professional for Heat Pump Repair

While you can handle a few basic fixes, like changing the air filter, some issues – especially electrical ones – require a professional. If you suspect a short circuit, wiring issues, or need a capacitor replacement, contact an HVAC technician.

A technician can safely inspect the system, find the root cause, and make the necessary repairs. Regular maintenance is also key to preventing these issues. Scheduling annual tune-ups ensures your heat pump runs smoothly and safely all year long, saving you from the frustration of a tripping breaker.