Is Your AC Short Cycling? Tips for Causes &Repairs

Short cycling is called short cycling, when your AC system turns on and off more than it usually does without going through a complete cooling cycle. It can leave your home uncomfortable while creating additional strain on your AC unit. This can lead to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns.

Knowing what causes short cycling and being able to address those things can help your air conditioner last longer. Keeping your home nice and cool when it’s hot outside is also helpful.

Improperly Sized AC Unit

One of the most common causes of short cycling is having an air conditioner that is too powerful for your home. In this case, the house is cooled too quickly, and the unit shuts down before the cycle is complete. While this could sound beneficial, it keeps the unit from dehumidifying your home, which creates excessive moisture buildup and discomfort.

To avoid this problem, ensure your home’s AC is the right size. If you think it might be too large, contact an HVAC professional. They can do a load calculation and give details on what size is right for your needs.

Thermostat Issues

A thermostat malfunctioning or in a lousy location can also create short cycling issues. If the thermostat is in a spot where it notices temperature changes very quickly, it can tell the AC to turn on and off more frequently than needed. This might include spots in direct sunlight or near a window.

Be sure the thermostat is in a central area away from heat sources. If the problem doesn’t improve, the thermostat might need to be calibrated, and in some cases, a professional will need to replace it.

Refrigerant Leaks

Leaks can lead to low refrigerant levels, which in turn can create the problem of short cycling. Without enough refrigerant, your air conditioner will struggle to remove heat, which can cause it to shut off too early or overhead. Leaks can also cause other issues, such as compressor damage.

If you think there is a refrigerant leak, speak with an HVAC technician as quickly as possible. Professionals can locate and repair the leak, recharge the refrigerant, and ensure the air conditioner runscorrectly.

Clogged Air Filters

When an air filter is clogged or dirty, the AC works harder to cool your space. This can lead to overheating and short cycling. Keeping your filters clean is one of the simplest methods to avoid additional stress on your system.

Depending on usage and the type of filter, replace your air filters once every one to three months. This prevents short cycling and improves the air quality of your home.

Restore Your AC’s Efficiency

Short cycling can increase energy bills, impact comfort, and shorten the lifespan of your air conditioning system. If you have noticed short cycling, make sure you address the cause as soon as possible.

At Elite Heating and AC Repair, our technicians can repair and diagnose short cycling problems. This ensures your AC runs well and your home stays cool. Contact us today to schedule your service and get your system back in working order!