The last thing you want to experience in the winter or summer is your heat pump or air conditioner turning on and off at short intervals. This is known as short-cycling, and it’s a common HVAC system issue that requires the professional assistance of certified technicians. Here Air Comfort explains why it happens and how it can be prevented. 

Short Cycling

Causes of HVAC Short Cycling

Short cycling causes heating and cooling systems to work harder than usual. The units’ internal components begin to deteriorate, resulting in a shortened lifespan. Before this problem causes costly damage and untimely repairs, you’ll want to know its numerous root causes. Here are some of the most common:

  • Incorrect sizing – An HVAC unit that’s too large for your home is likely to exceed its target temperature and cycle off and on too many times.
  • Power outage during a storm – Short cycling may also occur following a bad storm that results in a power outage. Electrical issues and even objects stuck in your vents may also contribute to this.
  • Thermostat issues – A thermostat that’s installed in an area that receives direct sunlight or is near heat-generating appliances or vents may misread the actual indoor temperature, causing your HVAC system to turn off and on repeatedly.

Preventing HVAC Short Cycling

Getting in touch with your heating and air conditioning service contractor is imperative in ensuring your HVAC system stays in good condition year-round, which means it’s less likely to experience the damaging effects of short cycling. One of our certified technicians can perform a thorough inspection of your unit to spot potential problems and correct them before they become worse.

When installing a new heating or cooling unit, see to it that it’s the right size for your home. The technician will help you choose the best equipment, taking into consideration factors such as your home’s square footage, the number of occupants and the size and position of the windows.

For your heating and air conditioning repair needs, turn to Air Comfort. Give us a call at (409) 833-5665 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate or schedule a service call.