Table of Contents
The Four Causes
- Aging compressor drawing higher amps — hard-start on shutdown, higher running current over time
- Dirty coils or low refrigerant — forces the compressor to work harder
- Weakened breaker — thermal breakers lose sensitivity after repeated trips
- Wire undersized for the load — sometimes original to the house, sometimes a prior repair
Order of Investigation
1. Have HVAC check refrigerant, coils, and compressor amperage. 2. If HVAC is healthy, an electrician measures actual amp draw against breaker and wire rating. 3. Replace the breaker if aged, upsize the circuit if undersized.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just install a bigger breaker?+
Only if the wire is also upsized to match. Installing a bigger breaker on the same wire is a fire hazard — the wire will overheat before the breaker trips.