Posted: 7/31/2006 11:46:07 AM EDT
I have a 220 breaker that runs my central A/C unit. When the unit starts up the breaker makes a rather loud BZZZ noise. I think some of the noise is amplified by the breaker box. Change the breaker or tighten the wires? Thanks.
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I think it means the contacts are dirty. Just spray down the breaker panel with a garden hose.  (I'm not an electrician. Can you tell.  )Seriously, if you're comfortable working in breaker panels, you could always try killing the power and replacing the breaker and see if you still hear the noise. Also check for obvious problems while you have the panel cover off. Of course, if you're not comfortable, call a pro. |
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most likely its a loose connection or the breaker going bad pull the cover and make sure the wires are tight, it if continues or the wires where tight i would replace the breaker. also if it is a big breaker like a 50 amp or which is a huge ac you might want to try to relocate the breaker closer to top of the panel ( closer to the main breaker ), because the buss bar might be viberating ( yes i have seen it ) by moving it closer to the top it gets closer to the anchor point, which can help kill te viberation. if it is viberation i would bet you have a cheap panel ( sd hl, bryant, ge or ch br etc ) |
| Check the breaker. I'll bet it's loose, whether it's screwed or held by spring tension to the bus bars. Be sure and kill the power feeding the panel before you stick any tools into to say, tighten screws onto the bus bar. While it's open, check and tighten all the connections, to include the neutrals and grounds. If you aren't comfortable with this, hire a pro. |
Yep. |
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The buzzing noise is most likely the breaker heating up and getting ready to pop. The startup current is probably very close to the rating of the breaker. First, get an amp meter and check the current draw. The problem may be your that your AC compressor is failing and drawing more amperage than normal. If the current is lower than the amperage rating on the breaker, I would change the breaker. |