Why Does My AC Keep Tripping the Breaker? 5 Common Causes

Why Your AC Unit Trips the Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker is a safety device designed to protect your home from electrical overloads and potential fires. When your air conditioner draws more electricity than the circuit is rated to handle, the breaker "trips" to cut off the power. While resetting it once might solve a temporary glitch, a recurring trip is a clear signal that your cooling system or electrical panel is facing a significant problem that requires immediate attention.

Dirty Air Filters and Restricted Airflow

One of the most common—and preventable—reasons for a tripped breaker is a clogged air filter. When the filter is full of dust and debris, the blower motor has to work significantly harder to pull air through the system. This increased strain causes the motor to consume more electricity, which can quickly exceed the breaker’s limit. Regularly replacing your filters is the easiest way to prevent this type of electrical surge and maintain system efficiency.

Dirty Condenser Coils

The outdoor unit of your AC contains condenser coils that release the heat collected from inside your home. If these coils are covered in dirt, leaves, or grass clippings, they cannot dissipate heat effectively. As a result, the system runs longer and hotter, eventually causing the compressor to overheat and draw an excessive amount of current. Keeping the area around your outdoor unit clear and scheduling professional coil cleanings can prevent this issue.

Malfunctioning Capacitor or Hard Start Issues

The capacitor is the component that gives your AC motor the initial "push" it needs to start running. If the capacitor is weakening or has failed, the motor will struggle to start, drawing a massive spike in amperage in the process. This often results in the breaker tripping the moment the AC tries to kick on. If you hear a humming sound followed by a trip, a failing capacitor is likely the culprit.

Internal Component Failures and Electrical Risks

If basic maintenance doesn't solve the problem, the issue may lie deep within the mechanical or electrical infrastructure of the unit. These problems often involve high-voltage components that should only be handled by a licensed professional.

Shorted Motors or Wiring Problems

Over time, the insulation on the wires inside your AC can wear down due to vibration or heat. If a live wire comes into contact with the metal frame of the unit or another wire, it creates a "short circuit." This causes an instantaneous and dangerous surge in electricity that triggers the breaker. Similarly, if the internal windings of the fan motor or compressor short out, the system will fail to run without tripping the electrical panel.

A Failing or Grounded Compressor

The compressor is the heart of your air conditioning system. A "grounded" compressor occurs when an electrical winding inside the motor breaks and hits the side of the compressor. This creates a direct path to the ground, causing a massive electrical discharge that immediately trips the breaker. Unfortunately, a grounded compressor usually signifies that the component has failed completely and may require a full system replacement.

When to Call a Professional for AC Repair

Attempting to repeatedly reset a tripping breaker can lead to permanent damage to your AC's sensitive electronics or even cause an electrical fire. If your breaker trips more than once, it is critical to leave the power off until a technician can perform a thorough diagnostic.

Comprehensive Electrical Diagnostics

A certified HVAC specialist will use specialized tools to measure the amperage draw of your compressor and fan motors. They will also inspect the electrical connections at the disconnect box and the main panel to ensure there are no loose terminals or charred wires. By identifying the root cause—whether it’s a simple component swap or a larger electrical issue—you can restore comfort to your home while ensuring the safety of your property.