A split air conditioner can trip for several reasons, and different parts may stop working depending on the cause. Here are some common causes and the corresponding components that may be affected:
Electrical Overload: An electrical overload can occur if the air conditioner is drawing more power than the circuit can handle. This can happen due to a faulty compressor, condenser fan motor, or other electrical components. In such cases, the circuit breaker or the safety switch may trip to prevent further damage to the electrical system.
Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can cause a drop in pressure within the system. When the pressure becomes too low, the air conditioner's low-pressure safety switch may trip, shutting down the system. The refrigerant leak can occur in the indoor unit (evaporator) or the outdoor unit (condenser), and it requires professional repair to fix the leak and recharge the system with the appropriate amount of refrigerant.
Dirty Air Filters or Coils: Accumulated dirt and debris on the air filters or evaporator/condenser coils can obstruct airflow, causing the system to work harder to achieve the desired cooling. This increased workload can lead to overheating and trigger the high-pressure safety switch, resulting in a system shutdown. Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing the air filters and coils, is essential to prevent this issue.
Faulty Capacitor: Capacitors are electrical components that provide a boost of energy to start the compressor and fan motors. If a capacitor fails or becomes weak, the motors may struggle to start or operate properly. This can cause the system to trip due to an overload or a malfunctioning motor.
Faulty Thermostat or Control Board: A malfunctioning thermostat or control board can lead to erratic operation or incorrect temperature readings. This can cause the air conditioner to behave unexpectedly and potentially trip as a safety measure. In such cases, the faulty thermostat or control board may need to be replaced or repaired.
It's important to note that these are just a few common causes, and there can be other factors that cause a split air conditioner to trip. If your air conditioner is frequently tripping, it's advisable to consult a professional HVAC technician who can diagnose the specific issue and provide appropriate repairs or replacements.