An HVAC system plays a vital role in keeping you and your family comfortable throughout the year. However, HVAC systems may eventually experience technical issues like a blown fuse. The more you learn about your systems, including their fuses, the better prepared you will be to point a HVAC professional in the right direction when they visit your home to fix a problem.
What is a Blown HVAC Fuse?
A fuse blows when more current or voltage flows through it than it is rated for. Fuses are safety devices designed to protect the electrical circuitry of your HVAC system from damage caused by excessive current. Most furnaces and air conditioners have a fuse in their control panel, and some models may have more than one. When a fuse blows, your system will not work at all. There are several common reasons why a fuse might blow in your HVAC systems.
Power Surges
External factors, such as power surges or lightning strikes, can cause a sudden increase in electrical current. These power surges can often result in a blown fuse.
Short Circuit
A short circuit happens when an electrical current takes an unintended path, often due to damaged or exposed wiring. For example, an exposed wire may touch your furnace’s or air conditioner’s metal housing. A short circuit can often lead to a sudden surge of current, which causes the fuse to blow.
Faulty Capacitor
There are two kinds of capacitors in HVAC systems. The first type is a start capacitor, which stores electricity and helps the heating or cooling systems motors start when you first turn on your system. The second is a run capacitor, which regulates the flow of electricity to your equipment during operation. An issue with either type of capacitor can cause your system’s fuse to blow.
Overloaded Circuit
If there is a more significant issue with your house’s electrical system, it can also cause a HVAC fuse to blow. A blown fuse can mean too much amperage in the power line for your heating or cooling system.
Aging Components
Over time, the components of your HVAC system can wear down or become less efficient. Unfortunately, this can strain the electrical system, increasing the risk of blown fuses.
Why Should You Contact a Professional?
While it can often be very tempting to try to fix a blown fuse on your own, there are several reasons why you should contact a professional HVAC technician instead. An HVAC technician has the training and experience to inspect your system and determine the best way to fix the problem. If your furnace or air conditioner blows a fuse, leaving you with no power to the system, your first step should be to call a reputable HVAC repair company. It’s possible that the problem could turn out to be with your home’s electrical system rather than the heating or cooling system itself, but your equipment is the most likely suspect.
Safety Concerns
Dealing with electrical components can be dangerous if you don’t have the proper training and experience. HVAC professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to safely handle these situations, minimizing the risk of injury or further damage to your system.
Accurate Diagnosis
A blown fuse is often a symptom of a deeper issue within your HVAC system. An experienced technician can accurately diagnose the underlying problem and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements.
Efficient Repairs
HVAC professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to quickly and efficiently address the issue, ensuring that your system is up and running in no time.
Warranty Protection
Attempting DIY repairs on your HVAC system could void your warranty, leaving you responsible for future issues and costs. Hiring a professional ensures that your warranty remains intact and any necessary repairs are covered. You should save the paperwork a HVAC technician will provide you to prove you had a professional do the work in case you are facing a major repair down the road.
Contact the Professionals
At Texas Pride Heating & Air, we are a family-owned business that has been serving the residents of Keller, Texas since 2019. We install, maintain and repair heating and cooling systems. Our experts also provide indoor air quality, insulation, and commercial HVAC services. If you suspect your air conditioner or furnace has blown a fuse or have any other problems related to your HVAC system, contact Texas Pride Heating & Air today so we can get started fixing the issue!
