A circuit breaker’s purpose is to protect your home, electrical wiring and electronic appliances from the potentially ruinous consequences of massive power surges. However, your heat pump should never trigger it. Here are a few possible reasons homeowners in Winfield, WV, may experience this odd problem:
Inadequate Airflow
Without smooth airflow, your heat pump may run into various problems. For example, airflow obstructions will keep air from moving through your system, which decreases your heat pump’s effectiveness and forces it to work harder. As a result, your system may pull in too much power and eventually trip your breaker.
Old or Faulty Compressor
Of all your heat pump’s components, the compressor is the one that uses the most electricity. If the compressor malfunctions, it may make an effort to resume normal operations by pulling in more power, thereby inadvertently activating your breaker.
Debris may find its way into your heat pump’s compressor and prevent it from working. Alternatively, it may have mechanical issues. To resolve or preempt such difficulties, schedule preventive maintenance for your heat pump at least once per year.
Faulty Heat Pump Motor
Your heat pump’s motor powers its fans and is therefore responsible for generating air circulation. If it malfunctions, there are a few ways this might lead your heat pump to trip your circuit breaker.
For example, if the motor completely fails, air won’t move through your system at all, causing the kinds of air circulation issues that we’ve already described above. Alternatively, if the motor only functions suboptimally, it may seek to draw in more electrical power in an effort to jump-start its performance. Once too much current begins flowing, your circuit breaker may totally cut off its flow.
Unless your heat pump and circuit breaker can coexist, it’ll be difficult for you to stay comfortable. To take care of this issue, call E.J. Thompson & Son LLC and schedule our heat pump services today.
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