Do you notice your HVAC system turning on and off every few minutes? This is called short cycling, and it’s a common problem that can have many causes. When your HVAC system is unable to operate correctly due to an internal issue, it will short cycle. The cycle starts when the system is turned on and ends when your room reaches the temperature you set. However, short cycling can cause your unit to run for a longer period to reach the temperature or never achieve it.
This issue can make your system work harder to reach the set temperature, leading to higher energy bills. Additionally, the constant on and off can negatively affect your heating or air conditioning unit’s moving components, leading to premature repairs or even unit failure in extreme cases. If you’re experiencing short cycling, contact Superior HVAC Services to fix the problem.
Why your HVAC system is short cycling
- Dirty air filters. A dirty or clogged filter will not allow enough air to flow through your HVAC system. Incorrect airflow causes heat to build up in the system, leading to overheating. An overheated system will shut down early in the cycle to avoid further issues.
- Unit improperly small. The short cycle occurs if your HVAC system does not match the cooling requirements of your home. If your unit is too small, it will cycle continuously to meet your indoor air needs. If your system is too big, it will cool or heat your house too quickly. It will shut off before the temperature reaches its ideal level.
- Electrical issues. Over time, wiring and other electrical components can become loose or fail. Incorrect connections can prevent the heating or cooling cycle from completing.
- Frozen coils. It is important to regularly maintain your cooling unit as a lack of maintenance can lead to the accumulation of dust and dirt on the air filter and evaporator coil. Dust on the coil makes it difficult for the unit to absorb heat, causing condensation to freeze instead of cooling the air. If this occurs, your cooling system may stop working or experience a short cycle, depending on the severity of the issue.
Short cycling troubleshooting
There are certain causes that you can fix yourself, such as air filter problems or frozen coils. However, if the issue stems from a refrigerant leak, an improperly sized unit, or other complex issues, it’s best to seek the help of a professional to repair it.
- Replace the air filter. If your HVAC system is short cycling, it could be because of a clogged air filter. To resolve this issue, you should remove the air filter and replace it with a new one if it is disposable. However, if you have a reusable filter, ensure that you wash and dry it thoroughly before reinstalling it. To avoid severe dust and debris buildup, it’s recommended that you either schedule routine maintenance or change your air filter frequently.
- Defrost coils. Inspect the coils of the evaporator in your unit. If you find any ice, defrost it and let the water drain from the drain pan. It is recommended to hire professionals to clean the coils.
Contact the Professionals
If your HVAC unit continues to short cycle even after trying the aforementioned fixes, it might indicate a larger problem. In such a scenario, get in touch with a local HVAC company like Superior HVAC Service. Our technicians have the experience and tools necessary to diagnose and resolve the problem.
