Gas Furnace

Why Does My Gas Furnace Keep Tripping the Breaker?

Gas Furnace Keeps Tripping Breaker

If your gas furnace keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it can be a frustrating and concerning issue. However, there are several common causes and troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the technical specifications, potential causes, and step-by-step methods to diagnose and fix the issue.

What are the Technical Specifications of a Gas Furnace’s Electrical Components?

A gas furnace, despite using gas as its primary fuel source, relies on various electrical components to operate efficiently. The key electrical components include:

  1. Blower Motor: This motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. If the blower motor is overworking due to restricted airflow, it can draw more electrical current, potentially tripping the circuit breaker.

  2. Technical Data: A typical blower motor in a gas furnace operates on 120V or 240V AC and draws between 5-15 amps, depending on the model and size of the furnace.

  3. Circuit Board and Electronic Ignition: These components also require electrical power. Any malfunction or short circuit in these components can cause the breaker to trip.

Why Does My Gas Furnace Keep Tripping the Circuit Breaker?

Gas Furnace Keeps Tripping Breaker

There are several common causes for a gas furnace tripping the circuit breaker:

  1. Overworking Blower Motor:
  2. Cause: Restricted airflow due to a dirty air filter, closed or blocked air vents, or leaks in the ductwork.
  3. Measurement: Check the air filter for dirt and replace it if necessary. Ensure all air vents are open and free from obstructions.

  4. Technical Data: A dirty filter can increase the blower motor’s energy consumption, potentially exceeding the 15-amp limit of a typical furnace breaker.

  5. Overloaded Circuit:

  6. Cause: Sharing a circuit with other appliances or having an overloaded shared circuit.
  7. Measurement: Check the electrical panel to see if the furnace is on a shared circuit. Move other appliances to different circuits if necessary.

  8. Technical Data: Ensure the circuit is not overloaded by calculating the total amp draw of all appliances on the circuit.

  9. Short Circuit or Ground Fault:

  10. Cause: Electrical short circuits or ground faults within the furnace, often due to malfunctioning parts, incorrect repairs, or rodent damage.
  11. Measurement: Inspect the wiring and electrical connections within the furnace for any signs of damage or wear.

  12. Technical Data: A short circuit or ground fault can significantly increase the electrical current, tripping the breaker.

  13. Circuit Breaker Problems:

  14. Cause: Faulty or damaged circuit breakers, or loose electrical connections in the panel.
  15. Measurement: Inspect the circuit breaker and electrical connections for any signs of wear or damage.

  16. Technical Data: Replace the breaker or tighten loose connections as needed.

  17. Leaking Air Ducts:

  18. Cause: Air escaping from the ventilation system, causing the furnace to work harder and draw more electrical current.
  19. Measurement: Inspect the ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps or breaks.
  20. Technical Data: Leaks in the ductwork can increase the blower motor’s workload, potentially tripping the breaker.

How Do I Troubleshoot a Gas Furnace That Keeps Tripping the Breaker?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to diagnose and fix the issue:

  1. Check the Air Filter:
  2. Tools: New air filter.
  3. Estimated Cost: $5-$20.
  4. Timeframe: 10-15 minutes.

  5. Steps: Replace the air filter if it is dirty. Check if the breaker trips again after replacing the filter.

  6. Inspect Air Vents and Ductwork:

  7. Tools: None.
  8. Estimated Cost: Free.
  9. Timeframe: 15-30 minutes.

  10. Steps: Ensure all air vents are open and free from obstructions. Check for any leaks in the ductwork and seal them if necessary.

  11. Check for Overloaded Circuit:

  12. Tools: None.
  13. Estimated Cost: Free.
  14. Timeframe: 10-15 minutes.

  15. Steps: Check the electrical panel to see if the furnace is on a shared circuit. Move other appliances to different circuits if necessary.

  16. Inspect Electrical Components:

  17. Tools: Multimeter, screwdrivers.
  18. Estimated Cost: Free if DIY, $50-$100 if hiring a professional.
  19. Timeframe: 30-60 minutes.

  20. Steps: Inspect the wiring and electrical connections within the furnace for any signs of damage or wear. Check for short circuits or ground faults.

  21. Check Circuit Breaker and Panel:

  22. Tools: Multimeter, screwdrivers.
  23. Estimated Cost: Free if DIY, $50-$100 if hiring a professional.
  24. Timeframe: 30-60 minutes.
  25. Steps: Inspect the circuit breaker and electrical connections for any signs of wear or damage. Replace the breaker or tighten loose connections as needed.

What Products Can Help Resolve a Gas Furnace Tripping the Breaker?

Here are some specific product recommendations that can help address the issue:

  • Air Filters: High-quality air filters such as those from Honeywell or Aprilaire can help reduce the likelihood of restricted airflow.
  • Circuit Breakers: If the breaker needs to be replaced, consider using a high-quality breaker from a reputable manufacturer like Square D or GE.
  • Blower Motors: If the blower motor needs replacement, ensure it matches the specifications of your furnace. Consult with an HVAC professional for the correct replacement.

Reference Links

  1. Coolray: “4 Reasons Why Your Furnace Can Trip the Circuit Breaker”
  2. Bob Mims Heating & Air Conditioning: “5 Reasons Your Furnace Is Tripping the Circuit Breaker”
  3. Sears Heating & Cooling: “Why Is My Furnace Tripping the Circuit Breaker?”

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