When your air conditioner suddenly shuts off in the middle of a hot summer day, it’s easy to dismiss it as a minor glitch. You reset the breaker, the cool air returns, and all seems fine until it happens again. And again.
If your AC keeps tripping the breaker, it’s not just an annoyance. It’s a warning sign that your HVAC system may be overloading your electrical circuit, overheating, or experiencing a deeper mechanical or electrical fault. These issues aren’t just bad for comfort, they can damage your system, inflate your energy bills, and pose fire hazards.
As HVAC contractors based in Edmonton, we often receive emergency calls from homeowners frustrated by their air conditioners repeatedly shutting off.
In this blog, we’ll break down why this happens, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call for professional air conditioner service.
Common Reasons Why Your AC Is Tripping The Breaker
1. Dirty Air Filters Choking The System
Clogged air filters are one of the most overlooked causes of HVAC problems. When airflow is restricted, your AC has to work harder to cool your home, which causes it to overheat and draw more power, leading to breaker trips.
What to do:Check and replace your air filters every 1–2 months, especially during high-use summer periods.
2. Blocked Or Dirty Condenser Coils
Your outdoor condenser coils release heat collected from inside your home. If they’re covered in dirt, grass, or debris, heat builds up inside the unit, forcing the system to draw excess power.
What to do:
Clean the outdoor unit regularly and keep vegetation trimmed at least 2 feet away.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels (Or a Refrigerant Leak)
Low refrigerant reduces cooling efficiency and forces your compressor to work overtime, drawing excessive current. If ignored, this can damage the compressor or even lead to system failure.
What to do:
Only a licensed HVAC technician can check for leaks and safely recharge your system.
4. Compressor Failure Or Hard Starting
If your AC’s compressor is failing or struggling to start (a problem known as hard starting), it can pull high amperage and instantly trip the breaker.
Warning signs:
- Clicking or buzzing noises during startup
- The outdoor unit tries to turn on repeatedly without success
What to do:
You may need a hard start kit or compressor replacement, depending on the diagnosis.
5. Faulty Capacitors Or Electrical Parts
Your AC’s start-and-run capacitors help regulate electrical flow. If these components are worn out, power surges or inconsistent current draw can occur, both of which trip the breaker.
What to do:
An HVAC technician can test and replace faulty electrical components during routine air conditioner service.
6. Undersized Or Worn-Out Breaker Panel
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with your AC; it’s with your breaker panel. If the breaker is too small or old and worn, it might trip under normal operating loads.
What to do:
Have an electrician or HVAC expert assess if your home’s electrical infrastructure matches your system’s power needs.
When To Call For Professional Air Conditioner Service
While you can handle some basic tasks, like filter replacement or outdoor unit cleaning, most causes of repeated breaker trips require a trained technician.
Here’s when to schedule a professional service:
- Breaker trips more than once a week
- AC fails to cool your home efficiently
- You hear strange sounds or smell something burning
- The outdoor unit feels extremely hot to the touch
- You notice water pooling near the unit or freezing on the lines
A licensed HVAC contractor will use tools like amp meters, pressure gauges, and thermal imaging to pinpoint the issue safely and accurately, saving you from costly future repairs or complete system failure.
The Importance Of Preventive HVAC Maintenance
Preventing breaker trips starts with consistent maintenance. Professional air conditioner service typically includes:
- Checking and cleaning filters and coils
- Testing refrigerant pressure
- Inspecting electrical connections and components
- Lubricating motors and fan blades
- Verifying thermostat calibration
- Reviewing ductwork and airflow efficiency
Preventative maintenance not only prevents nuisance breaker trips but also extends the lifespan of your system and reduces energy consumption.
About Nor-Can Heating & Air
At Nor-Can Heating & Air, we specialize in professional air conditioner service tailored for Edmonton homes. With over 20 years of experience, we understand how local climate and housing infrastructure affect your HVAC system.
Our certified technicians provide reliable diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance, preventing issues like frequent breaker trips before they escalate. Whether you need emergency repair or seasonal service, our team is committed to keeping your home cool, safe, and efficient.
Book your service today and experience the Nor-Can difference. Call now to schedule your appointment.
