Why Your Air Conditioner Keeps Tripping the Power in Summer
- Brett Wells
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Nothing is more frustrating than turning on your air conditioner during a hot Gold Coast summer, only to have the power trip minutes later.
Suddenly, your house goes dark. The air stops. The heat builds. And you’re left wondering whether it’s a simple problem or an expensive repair.
If your air conditioner keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it’s not something to ignore. It’s a safety system warning you that something isn’t right.
Here’s why it happens, how to fix it and when to call a professional.
What Does It Mean When Your AC Trips the Power?
Your circuit breaker is designed to protect your home from:
Electrical overload
Short circuits
Overheating wires
Fire risks
When your air conditioner draws more electricity than the system can handle, the breaker shuts everything down automatically.
It’s not “faulty” behaviour, it’s preventing serious damage.
If your AC trips occasionally during extreme heat, it may be overload. If it happens regularly, there’s likely a deeper issue.
Is It Dangerous If It Keeps Happening?
Yes, repeated tripping should never be ignored.
Ongoing electrical faults can lead to:
Damaged wiring
Burnt components
Compressor failure
Fire hazards
Voided warranties
Many homeowners keep resetting breakers without fixing the cause. This puts both the system and the home at risk.
Most Common Reasons Air Conditioners Trip Breakers
1. Dirty Filters and Coils
Blocked airflow forces your system to work harder.
When the compressor struggles, power draw increases and trips the breaker.
This is one of the most common causes on the Gold Coast.
2. Overloaded Electrical Circuits
Many older homes weren’t designed for modern cooling systems.
If your AC shares a circuit with appliances, it can overload during peak use.
3. Faulty Capacitors
Capacitors help start the compressor and fan motors.
When they weaken, your system pulls excess power to compensate.
This often causes sudden tripping during startup.
4. Short Circuits
Damaged wiring, moisture, or worn insulation can create shorts.
This triggers instant shutdown for safety.
Storms and humidity increase this risk.
5. Compressor Problems
The compressor is the heart of your air conditioner.
When it begins to fail, power consumption rises sharply.
This is one of the most expensive issues and requires professional diagnosis.
6. Incorrect System Size
Undersized systems work constantly.
Oversized systems cycle aggressively.
Both scenarios stress electrical components and breakers.
Electrical vs Mechanical Problems
Some trips are electrical. Others are mechanical.
Electrical Issues:
Loose connections
Old breakers
Wiring faults
Inadequate circuit capacity
Mechanical Issues:
Failing motors
Refrigerant imbalance
Compressor wear
Blocked airflow
Only testing can identify the true cause.
What You Should Check First
Before calling a technician, you can safely check:
✅ Reset Once Only
Reset the breaker once. If it trips again, stop.
✅ Clean Filters
Remove and wash filters. Let them dry fully.
✅ Check Outdoor Unit
Clear leaves and debris.
✅ Reduce Load
Turn off other major appliances temporarily.
If tripping continues, professional inspection is required.
How to Prevent Future Power Trips
Prevention saves money and stress.
1. Annual Servicing
Professional servicing detects overload risks early.
2. Electrical Assessments
Upgrade old circuits when installing new systems.
3. Proper Sizing
Correct capacity prevents overworking.
4. Surge Protection
Storm-prone areas benefit from surge protectors.
5. Regular Cleaning
Clean systems operate with less power demand.
When to Call EvidiAir
Call immediately if:
Breaker trips repeatedly
Burning smells appear
Unit won’t restart
Power cuts during storms
Lights flicker when AC runs
System overheats
These are warning signs that should not be ignored.
EvidiAir provides fast diagnosis and safe repairs for Gold Coast homes and businesses.
Final Advice
A tripping air conditioner is never “just annoying”, it’s a warning.
Addressing the cause early protects your system, your home and your family.
With proper maintenance and professional support, your air conditioner should run safely and reliably all summer.
If your system keeps cutting out, EvidiAir is ready to help.
📞 Call now: 0414753300
📍 Servicing: ALL Gold Coast and surroundings
